Lower Elementary Guide

Overview

Summary:

The Guide (Assistant Teacher) will be responsible for assisting the Montessori Lead Guide in creating a warm, nurturing, safe environment for children, in which individuality is respected and independence is encouraged. The Guide will help support children in engaging in activities designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth following the philosophies of Maria Montessori. An open mind and willingness to learn, understand, and model Montessori principles are vital.

Required Education and Experience:

Must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma required; college diploma preferred
1+ year experience in a Montessori classroom (internship and other relevant experience considered to meet criteria)
CPR/First Aid certification

Required Characteristics, Skills, and Additional Qualifications:

Ability to relate sensitively and joyfully to children and adults
Ability to use appropriate positive discipline
Evidence of an open mind and a dedication to the Montessori method of education
Ability to demonstrate sufficient judgment regarding safety and security
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of people
Ability to handle crises
Flexibility
Punctuality and ability to maintain school hours
Willingness and ability to make student-centered decisions
Willingness and ability to take on a variety of tasks throughout the day
Willingness and ability to foster a harmonious, collegial teaching team based on mutual respect

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

General Responsibilities

Support the Lead Guide and assist in establishing and maintaining a harmonious classroom
Help in establishing and maintaining Montessori classroom culture, paying particular attention to the needs of students and parents
Carefully observe and keep records on each student’s individual progress through the classroom and be available to offer gentle guidance
Attend and participate in staff and level meetings
Participate in ongoing in-service training
Adhere to school and safety policies and procedures
Check school email at the beginning and at the end of each work day
Be at your scheduled post, ready to begin your duties as scheduled, generally 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily

Responsibilities to the Lead Guide

Assist in supporting the children in learning about and understanding the Montessori lessons and materials
Remain informed and carry out duties as assigned by the Lead Guide
Inform the Lead Guide of difficulties (e.g. discipline, health, developmental challenges of children, equipment needs, repair and/or maintenance of materials, etc.)
Meet with the Lead Guide to discuss goals for the class and individual students
Assist with attendance, snack, lunch, and playground time
Help compile weekly folders

Responsibilities to the Children and Parents

Keep all shared information confidential
Share all questions from parents pertaining to children’s performance with the Lead Guide
Share all information from parents with the Lead Guide
Be professional and positive in all dealings with students and parents
Observe students and discuss observations with the Lead Guide
Be familiar with the Parent Handbook and St. Vrain Community Montessori School policies

Responsibilities to the Child

Help the child help him/herself
Help the child help others
Help the child gain independence
Help the child gain concentration
Observe the child
Help the child when direction is needed
Help the child follow through with his/her activities
Model appropriate behavior

Responsibilities to the Classroom

Stack and maintain consumables used daily
Vacuum and undertake other environment maintenance tasks daily
Manage students’ classroom clean-up jobs
General clean-up of the classroom

Requirements for All Positions at SVCMS:

Attend and participate in staff and level meetings
Participate in in-service and post-service training as well as additional professional development opportunities as required.
Attend and participate in SVCMS School Events.
Check school email at the beginning and at the end of each work day.
Be ready to begin your duties as scheduled, generally 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily.
When absent, secure a substitute in accordance with SVCMS requirements, ensuring that all of your duties are covered.
Maintain awareness of and adhere to SVCMS policies and procedures.
Read the Family Weekly Update, the Staff Weekly Update, and other SVCMS communications.