The Montessori Elementary Assistant supports the Montessori Elementary teacher in maintaining a calm, orderly, responsive, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment for approximately 20 children (ages 6-12). This position plays an essential role in the daily life of the classroom by helping to ensure smooth operations, active and attentive supervision, and a culture of independence, respect, and purposeful work.

The Elementary Assistant works closely with the teacher to uphold the integrity of the Montessori environment, support classroom routines and expectations, prepare and maintain materials, supervise children, and respond to the practical needs of the class. This role is collaborative and service-oriented and requires strong judgment, emotional steadiness, professionalism, and a deep respect for children.

The Elementary Assistant does not serve as the instructional or pedagogical lead of the classroom, but rather supports the teacher’s leadership and contributes to the overall functioning and well-being of the classroom community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Classroom Environment and Operations

• Maintain a calm, orderly, and well-prepared classroom environment.
• Support daily classroom routines and the smooth functioning of the school day.
• Help prepare, organize, and maintain classroom materials, supplies, and workspaces.

Student Supervision and Support

• Build warm, respectful, and appropriately boundaried relationships with students.
• Supervise students attentively in and outside of the classroom while supporting independence, responsibility, and respectful conduct.
• Support students during classroom routines, transitions, conflict resolution, and other non-instructional times.
• Observe student behavior, work habits, and social dynamics and communicate relevant information to the Teacher.

Support of the Teacher

• Work closely with the Montessori Elementary Teacher and support the teacher’s leadership of the classroom.
• Reinforce classroom expectations and procedures while protecting student focus and concentration during work time. 
• Prepare materials and assist with classroom systems and logistics as directed.
• Respond to classroom needs with initiative, flexibility, discretion, and professionalism.

Classroom Management Support

• Contribute to a classroom culture of respect, responsibility, and emotional safety.
• Support students in meeting behavioral and social expectations through calm, clear, and consistent messaging and modeling.
• Maintain active supervision of students at all times.
• Follow all school policies related to health, safety, confidentiality, and emergency procedures.
• Assist with student health and safety needs throughout the school day.
• Collaborate respectfully with faculty and staff and participate in meetings, training, and school events as requested.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in education, child development, or a related field.
• Experience working with elementary-aged children in a school or other child-centered setting.
• Strong organizational skills, reliability, and follow-through.
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and emotional steadiness.
• Ability to work collaboratively and take direction within a team environment.
• Commitment to respectful, child-centered practice and willingness to learn Montessori philosophy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior Montessori classroom experience and/or Montessori assistant training.
• Experience in an elementary school setting.
• Coursework or training in education, child development, psychology, or a related field.