Join our team! Sunny Hollow Montessori is currently hiring an Upper Elementary Assistant.
Job Description
Job Title: Montessori Elementary Assistant
Department: Education
Reports to: Head of School
Salary/pay grade: $22-26.15/hour
Employee Status: Full-Time
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Work Location: This is a full-time, on-site position. Remote work is not available.
[ x ] 35 – 40 hrs/wk
[ ] 20 – 35 hrs/wk
[ ] less than 20 hrs/wk
Position Summary
The Montessori Elementary Assistant supports the Lead Guide in maintaining an engaging, orderly, and respectful classroom that reflects the Montessori philosophy. Working with children ages 6–12, the assistant helps sustain a calm learning environment, supports student independence, models appropriate behavior, and ensures the physical and emotional safety of all children. This role is rooted in observation, indirect support, and thoughtful presence, empowering students to take responsibility for their learning while fostering a peaceful and inclusive community.
Education & Experience
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field.
- AMS or AMI 6-12 Credential/Diploma or currently in training, preferred.
Experience:
- Experience working with children in an educational setting, preferably ages 6-12.
- Experience in a Montessori school, preferred.
Certifications & Competencies:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm, flexible, and focused in a busy classroom environment.
- Respect for children’s individuality and autonomy.
- Observational awareness and thoughtful responsiveness.
- Patience, humility, and a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Team-oriented approach with strong follow-through and dependability.
- Alignment with the school’s mission and Montessori values.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Classroom Environment Support:
- Prepare, clean, and maintain classroom materials and the physical space to ensure an organized, aesthetically pleasing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.
- Support transitions between lessons, activities, and environments with a calm and consistent presence.
- Observe and respond to classroom dynamics without interrupting student concentration, offering help only when necessary or invited
- Reinforce classroom expectations and procedures as established by the Lead Guide, including care of materials and respectful communication.
- Support outdoor learning and recreation, including supervision during recess, nature walks, and field trips.
- When staffing is low, support other classrooms or the extended day program as needed.
Student Support and Interaction:
- Provide individualized and small-group support as directed by the Lead Guide, including reading with students, assisting with research projects, and guiding follow-up work.
- Encourage independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving, refraining from doing for the child what they can do themselves.
- Guide students in resolving peer conflicts peacefully, modeling and supporting Montessori grace and courtesy lessons.
- Monitor the emotional well-being and behavior of children, intervening gently and appropriately when needed.
- Assist in managing classroom logistics, including helping students track work completion or preparing snacks and materials for projects.
Observation and Communication:
- Observe student behavior, social interactions, and academic work habits; Share relevant observations with the Lead Guide to support planning and record-keeping.
- Maintain confidentiality about student records and sensitive classroom information.
- Communicate respectfully with students, colleagues, and families in alignment with the school’s values.
- Attend and contribute to classroom team meetings and staff development sessions.
Collaboration and School Community Participation:
- Work cooperatively with the Lead Guide and other staff to maintain a harmonious classroom and school culture.
- Participate in school events, “going outs,” professional development days, and family engagement opportunities, as requested.
- Uphold Montessori principles and school policies in daily interactions and decision-making.
- Serve as a supportive and professional representative of the school to students, families, and visitors.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit on the floor, bend, kneel, reach, and lift up to 40 pounds.
- Frequent movement throughout the classroom and outdoor environments.
- Participation in outdoor activities in various weather conditions.
Work Environment
The Montessori Elementary Assistant will work in a dynamic, child-centered classroom environment that reflects the principles of the Montessori philosophy. The setting is calm, respectful, and intentionally prepared to support student independence and curiosity. The role involves frequent movement throughout the day—indoors and outdoors—including walking, bending, kneeling, and sitting on the floor to engage with children at their level. Outdoor learning and play are integral parts of the daily schedule, and the assistant should be comfortable participating in activities in all types of weather. Collaboration with other staff members, participation in school events, and consistent communication with families are essential components of this position. This is a full-time, on-site role in a supportive and mission-driven educational community. The pace can vary, with periods of quiet planning as well as high-energy event execution. Flexibility, professionalism, and a welcoming presence are essential in this dynamic and people-focused role.
Benefits
We offer comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid time off, and more.
Sunny Hollow Montessori is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Please visit our website at Welcome to Sunny Hollow Montessori | Guiding children from infancy to adulthood
