Toddler Montessori Associate Teacher

About Montessori International Childrens House

Montessori International Childrens House (MICH) is an AMI accredited school serving children from 18 months through age 12 that has created an idyllic setting for young learners in its 40-year history. Situated on a verdant, wooded campus, and with a highly dedicated faculty and staff, the school community has a clear sense of purpose: to provide the best, age-appropriate education for young learners, following the philosophy of Maria Montessori.

Position Summary

The Toddler Montessori Associate works directly with the Lead Montessori Teacher to prepare and maintain an orderly, attractive, and joyful environment. The Toddler Montessori Assistant collaborates with the Lead Montessori Teacher and the Educational Director as they plan and provide appropriate learning experiences for students ages 18 months to 2.5 years. Alongside the other adults, they observe and model courteous and respectful behavior as well as contribute to the warm, supportive, and peaceful atmosphere.

This position has the potential to be part of a professional development track designed for individuals interested in becoming AMI-certified Montessori educators. The Associate Teacher will work alongside an experienced Lead Teacher while preparing to attend AMI Assistance to Infancy Training within 12 years. The school will provide mentorship and financial support, with the goal of transitioning the Associate Teacher into a Lead Teacher role following certification and availability of a lead position.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Preparation of the Environment

• Perform care and maintenance of the environment including but not limited to creating and repairing materials, cleaning the environment, including a thorough dusting each week, replenishing supplies, preparing and supervising snacks, laundry, keeping everything tidy and in good condition
• Arrive promptly at the specified time to prepare the environment for the day

Supporting Lead Montessori Teacher

• Follow the instructions of the Lead Teacher for both ongoing duties and direct instruction. Under their direction, help establish a classroom culture of calm, respect, and productive work.
• Assist the Lead Teacher during work periods with redirecting children to work, aiding who need help.
• Assist in the maintenance of current and accurate attendance records.
• Observe the activities of the students and take the time to communicate observations to the teachers
• Support lead teacher with all transitions including lunch, recess, and naptime.
• Be a model to students of integrity, curiosity, responsibility, creativity, and respect for all persons.

Professional Growth

• Seek feedback to improve performance in supporting the environment and in working with the children
• Reflecting on and pursuing the development of professional growth; working with a direct supervisor to evaluate and improve skills.
• Participating in structured and informal professional development opportunities.
• Assisting with any projects as assigned by the Head of School or Education Director
• Attending all other meetings as appropriate.

Other Duties as Assigned

Required Skills and Experience

• Physical capacity to work with infants: the employee is required to sit, stand, walk, talk, sing and listen.
• The employee is required to reach with hands and arms, jump, dance, twist at the waist, raise arms, push, pull, and run.
• The employee is required to kneel, bend, crouch, and physically assist infants.
• The employee must lift and move up to 30 pounds. Good hand-eye coordination and vision are necessary to complete daily cleaning and tasks.

Required Skills and Experience

• Minimum requirement is an Associates degree, but Bachelors degree in the applicable field preferred
• At least 2 years of experience in a Montessori environment is preferred
• Ability to meet school/state health requirements and pass a criminal background check as required by the Office of Child Care.
• A commitment to the schools mission as a dedicated member of the Montessori community
• A willingness to contribute to a culture of collaboration and teamwork
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, strong attention to detail and organization, and passion for creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment
• A positive, team spirit with a desire to work together to support all aspects of the school operations
• Openness to feedback, desire to continue development as a professional, and willingness to take responsibility for programmatic outcomes and achievement.

EEO Statement

Montessori International Childrens House is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.