Assistant - Primary Classroom in Richmond, Virginia, US

Wild Fern Montessori School, a non-profit Montessori school rooted in our mission of equitable accessibility to quality Montessori Early Childhood Education, is looking for a Full-Time Primary Assistant. We are committed to providing an authentic Montessori environment in a safe space for all children and families.
We are currently looking for a Full-Time Primary Classroom Assistant. The assistant will assist the Lead Teacher in establishing and maintaining a harmonious classroom. The Primary Classroom Assistant must understand the goal to create a nurturing, stimulating environment that supports the growth and development of each child.

ROLE OF THE ASSISTANT INCLUDES:
To support the Lead Teacher and promote peace in the classroom
To support independence in each child
To model expected grace & courtesy consistently
To contribute to the energy of the classroom in a positive way
To share in the joy of learning and discovery with each child

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
Working in a support role with the lead teacher.
Assist in preparing the classroom environment.
Maintaining a well-organized, safe, and attractive classroom environment in line with the Montessori pedagogy.
To work cooperatively with the Lead Teacher to establish and maintain a Montessori classroom culture, paying particular attention to the needs of the children.
Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining accurate and confidential records of the children and their progress
Participate in regular staff meetings
Participate in school events such as parent orientation, community events, fundraisers, etc.
To be informed and carry out duties assigned by the Lead Teacher and/or Administration
Uphold all WFMS policies as well as VDOE licensing standards, including, but not limited to, maintaining confidentiality, safety, professionalism, etc.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Passion for working with 3-6 year olds
Nurturing, calm, kind, and respectful, with an open attitude toward all children and families.
Minimum of High School Diploma or equivalent
Ability to work year-round
Minimum 1 year in a preschool-aged classroom setting (Montessori preferred)
Ability and willingness to perform VDOE licensing required background checks
Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain 16 hours of yearly continuing education

MUST BE COMPLETED UPON HIRE
Current TB test or screening (must be no more than 30 days prior to hire date)
CPR/First Aid Certification
Complete Central Registry Background Check
State Fingerprinting Background Check
Sex Offender Registry Check
Required VDOE Licensing training and certification
COVID-19 Vaccination required

POSITION DETAILS:
Position Type:
Full-time 8:00 – 4:00
Location:
7511 Brook Rd. Richmond, VA 23227
Pay Rate:
$16 – $18 per hour (with the potential of a pay rate increase after a 90-day review)
Benefits:
Employee Tuition Discount
Paid Time Off, including paid school scheduled holiday breaks
Professional Development & Montessori Training Tuition Assistance
Working Conditions
The Primary Classroom Assistant will work in a mixed-age classroom setting (ages 3 – 6). The Primary Classroom Assistant may be required to sit or stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50 lbs.

Please send cover letter and resume to:
Kate Lipka
Head of School
kate@wildfernmont.org

WildFernMont.org