Mountain Willow Montessori LLP Classoom Assistant Colorado Springs, CO · Full time Company website

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Mountain Willow Montessori (MWM) is a community micro-school, meaning our schools will serve a maximum of 41 students ages 12 month -7 years old. We proudly utilize a modern Montessori Method and nature to cultivate the unique learning styles of every student in our care. We maintain a low student-to-guide ratio to ensure the students develop a deeper connection with the Guide and peers. We aim to honor the Montessori pyramid, focusing on the care of the Student, the Guide, and the Environment.

Quality, Safety, and Equity are at the forefront of our mission. We are a school founded, managed, and operated by passionate educators. We strive to create beauty and balance within the student’s indoor and outdoor environment. Beauty is the hallmark of a Montessori environment. Grace and courtesy are implemented into our daily activities. Because Mountain Willow is dedicated to a“slow living” culture, we can give our students time to learn, move, and grow at their own pace. MWM’s environment feels more like a home than a school.

Our environment is meticulously prepared to maximize independent learning and growth in students. Specially designed learning materials are displayed on open shelves, easily accessible for the students. Our Guides gently direct students to help maintain the organization and cleanliness of this environment to keep it orderly and attractive and to help your child understand how to care for materials and clean up after themselves - skills you will be happy to observe carrying over in your home.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Classroom Support and Environment:

• Assist in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment conducive to learning and exploration.
• Set up and maintain Montessori materials and learning areas as directed by the Lead Guide, ensuring they are accessible and inviting.
• Support the Lead Guide in establishing a calm and respectful classroom atmosphere by modeling appropriate behavior and language.

2. Student Support and Interaction:

• Provide support to individual students or small groups, reinforcing lessons presented by the Lead Guide.
• Monitor and guide children through self-directed activities, encouraging independence and problem-solving.
• Assist children in developing self-discipline, respect for others, and positive social skills.
• Ensure the physical needs of each child are met, including attending to hygiene, mealtime, and transitions.

3. Observation and Documentation:

• Observe children’s behavior and engagement in activities, noting any areas of strength or growth needs to share with the Lead Guide.
• Assist the Lead Guide in documenting student progress through notes and photographs as directed.
• Help maintain accurate records of children’s activities, following confidentiality protocols.

4. Professional Development and Certification:

• Engage in ongoing professional development and work towards achieving Colorado’s Group Lead certification, if not already obtained.
• Participate in training sessions, workshops, and staff meetings, including Montessori education and child development.
• Show a commitment to learning and applying Montessori principles in classroom practice.

5. Classroom and School Community Participation:

• Assist in preparing the classroom for daily activities and maintaining its cleanliness throughout the day.
• Support classroom routines such as arrival, dismissal, snack, and lunchtime with efficiency and patience.
• Engage with families in a positive, respectful manner, offering support and guidance in alignment with the Montessori philosophy.
• Participate in school events, including open houses and family workshops, to strengthen community connections.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or coursework in early childhood education preferred.
• Certification: Actively working towards Colorado Group Lead qualification; Montessori Assistant certification or training is a plus.
• Experience: 1-2 years of experience working with young children in a classroom or similar setting.
• Skills and Abilities:
• Ability to work cooperatively with the Lead Guide and other team members.
• Demonstrated interest in child development and Montessori education.
• Patient, nurturing demeanor with a commitment to fostering a safe, positive learning environment.
• We spend 1-3 hours outside everyday! Ability to work in all elements/seasons daily.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to take direction and adapt as needed.