Lower Elementary Classroom Assistant

Childpeace Montessori School is seeking a Lower Elementary Classroom Assistant. The Classroom Assistant will work in a classroom of 6- to 9- year-olds, assisting the Head Teacher through support of individual students, administrative tasks, maintenance of the classroom environment, playground supervision and general tasks related to the well-being of the classroom community. Montessori introduction, information, and training will be provided upon hire.

Our ideal candidate has or is currently completing a Bachelor's degree, possesses strong communication and organizational skills, has prior experience working with elementary age children, embraces professional teamwork and collaboration, and brings a positive and kind spirit to the important work of building relationships with students and colleagues.  Art/music abilities, physical education/movement skills or facility with Spanish language would be a plus. 

Work hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  This is a school-year, hourly, non-exempt, and benefit-eligible (medical, dental, and vision insurance, and more) position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 Helping children learn the skills and processes for independent care of the environment.
 Tracking attendance of students.
 Creation of materials as directed by the Guide. Reporting any damaged materials to Guide. 
 Performing any needed tasks such as carpools, tracking schedules, or other duties as assigned by the Guide in support of the classroom.

 Understanding communal chore schedules in conjunction with other Elementary and school staff.
 Modeling graceful and respectful behavior.
 In conjunction with the Guide, planning and implementing a sound outdoor program for the children. Monitoring playground/greenspace for safety and introduce new games and activities.
 Chaperoning children during going-out trips, field trips and during overnight camping trips.
 Supporting the children’s classroom work in a manner directed by the Guide and in such a way as to not interfere with the children’s independence and concentration.
 As directed by the Guide, providing individual support to children. This may include reading with children, practicing math facts, helping with research or information gathering, or supporting the scaffolding for children with special needs.
 Assisting children with conflict resolution and problem solving skills.
 Attending camping trips and assisting with chaperone responsibilities while students are at camp.

Supervision of Children - The Elementary Classroom Assistant skills will include:
 Developing an approach to any discipline issues consistent with the Guide, the school and which adheres to the Montessori philosophy. Using positive phrasing of directives when with the children Seek out appropriate words/language by observing other staff members.
 Reporting to the Guide and Administrator or office any accident that occurs in the class or on the playground and complete any necessary accident/incident report form.
 Report to Guide any abnormal or troublesome incidents.
 Being aware of safely issues, both in conduct of the group and the surroundings. Administer first aid when needed.
 When moving groups of children from one location to another or when on an outing, taking a head-count upon departure and arrival.

Relationships with Parents - Expectations include:
 Representing the classroom community positively and professionally at drop off/pick up times, and at classroom and community events.
 Assistants may be in a position to answer some housekeeping type questions for parents. However, mainly referring all questions, comments, or messages from the parent to the Guide and to the Program Director/HOS if necessary.
 Adhering to professional protocol and school policies in all interactions with parents. Maintaining appropriate professional boundaries, demonstrating awareness that ones conduct is a reflection of the school environment, and using good judgment when forming social connections with parents outside of the professional relationship.

Professional Development - The Elementary Classroom Assistant is expected to continue personal and professional development by:
 Completing 24 hours of documented, relevant professional development each calendar year.
 Prioritize attendance at parent education events.
 Reading the Staff Handbook and Parent Handbook and agreeing to adhere to all Childpeace Montessori School policies.

Each Elementary Classroom Assistant is expected to cooperate with the staff and school community as a whole by:
 Maintaining punctual, regular, and predictable attendance. The Elementary Classroom Guide arrives at least 1⁄2 hour before school begins and remains on the premises for at least 1⁄2 hour after. Attending staff meetings and monthly in service times as required.

 Projecting a positive and professional attitude when fulfilling staff responsibilities and implementing school policy. 
 Communicating regularly with Guide about classroom life either through written report or through verbal conversation.
 Communicating directly with the appropriate person any concerns or problems, adhering to all policies governing Childpeace. Supporting and implementing the Childpeace staff charter.
 Contributing to the successful and efficient operation of the school by being on time for all scheduled meetings, events and activities.
 Nourishing alumni, parent and student relationships with the school.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
 Six months of experience in educational work or the equivalent.
 High school diploma required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
 Knowledge of the normal developmental needs and tendencies of the elementary aged child.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS (may be obtained after hire) 
 Background Check/Enrollment in the Central Background Registry
 Food Handler Card:
 CPR/First Aid:
 Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect:

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 Elementary activities require frequent shifts between sitting, walking, standing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. 
 Must be able to run with children or run to them quickly as needed. 
 Frequent reaching and use of hands, including to lift items under 10 pounds. 
 Possibly need to lift a child who is under 100 pounds (in case of safety or medical injury). 
 Close, distance, and peripheral vision are important for observing the children and ensuring their safety
 Regular verbal communication with children and adult staff

About Childpeace:

Our staff work with hundreds of toddlers through adolescents in their educational journey every year. Childpeace’s classrooms offer a beautiful, vibrant environment in northwest Portland three blocks from the Willamette River near several urban parks, walking trails, and restaurants. Our school is located within several blocks of major bike and bus routes with many staff commuting by bike and bus. Childpeace supports our staff with a competitive salary structure and benefits package, a program rooted in AMI standards, a commitment to professional development, beautiful and well-equipped classroom environments, strong administrative support, and a dynamic working community of Montessori professionals.

Childpeace values responsibility, educational excellence, love of learning, sustainability, and equity as important characteristics of our learning community. We strongly encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups, whose personal and professional experiences will help us work toward our vision to shape the future of our world through the cultivation of inquisitive minds and socially responsible young citizens.

Childpeace Montessori School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, physical or mental ability, or any other status protected under local, state or federal laws in the admission of otherwise qualified students or in the administration of its educational policies or programs, hiring, or employment practices.