Portland Forest School Kindergarten Classroom Assistant

Portland Forest School Kindergarten Classroom Assistant This is a contract position with a start date of starting on August 31, 2026 to June 11, 2027. The Forest School Assistant is a position that provides educational and classroom assistance under the guidance of teachers, school administration, and other supervisors, and assists in carrying out instructional activities, promoting student safety and well-being, and reinforcing school programming.

Compensation:

$23/hour for up to 40 hours per week. The Portland Forest School Kindergarten Classroom Assistant is an assistant educator working with a cohort of students with a powerfully low student to teacher ratio (1 to 7)! This position supports the classroom's primary teacher in combining academics with natural sciences and earth skills to facilitate a whole systems learning environment for students and teachers alike. The Portland Forest School uses the outdoors as its primary classroom, leaving behind the traditional school setting to allow for a truly holistic education experience. Our unique programs and out-of-the-box setting fosters curiosity, creativity and academic success. Forest School Teacher Assistants report directly to the Head of School.

Duties:

• Confers with teachers, supervisor and other colleagues to plan day-to-day routines, programs, student specific delegated projects for the purpose of assisting in evaluating progress and/or implementing objectives.
• Support daily check-in procedures; opening and closing procedures for the school.
• May participate in parent-teacher conferences and/or assist teachers in reviewing student progress and programs.
• Performs instructional support tasks such as preparing worksheets, organizing materials, creating and posting bulletin boards, data collection and monitoring progress.
• Assists students with physical education and other recreational activities.
• Participates in the implementation of student behavior plans for the purpose of ensuring effective and safe student learning.
• Assists in transportation supervision, as needed or requested.
• Responsible for supporting the lead teacher in writing, recording, and disseminating unique Forest School curricula and lesson plans.
• Provide fun, engaging, and safe experiences for students and co-workers
• Recognize, mitigate, and respond to hazards to ensure a healthy and safe program for all staff and participants.
• Maintain and safeguard confidential information.
• Communicate health and safety information clearly and effectively to the Forest School Principal, Office Camp staff, other Teachers, Educators, Assistants, and other staff.
• Organize, analyze, and respond to parent surveys with the Portland Forest School Principal and other Teachers for all Portland Forest School grades.
• Fulfill assigned duties in an emergency situation.
• Ensure the health and safety of students and staff.
• Staff and facilitate marketing events as needed.
• Maintain equipment and teaching supplies for the program.
• Perform essential duties as a substitute teacher when needed
• Perform other duties as assigned. Equity, Inclusion, and Other Responsibilities
• Background and experience in cultural competency and advancing organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), such as trauma-informed care or restorative justice training if applicable
• CPR/First Aid Certification Qualifications
• Over 2 years experience in Education or Outdoor Education and skills focuses.
• Must be physically able to lead students in hikes of up to 5 miles in a day.
• Requires driving 15 passenger vans, driving with box trailers, with children for up to four hours at a time.
• Must have visual, perceptual, cognitive and judgment ability to: recognize and respond verbally to health and safety concerns and to deal appropriately with any improper behavior.
• Second language abilities in addition to English (Spanish, Mandarin/Cantonese) preferred. Native speakers preferred
• Enthusiasm about working in an inclusive environment which serves children of all backgrounds and abilities
• Demonstrated cultural competency and experience working with diverse populations, including communities of color, immigrants, and underserved communities

Working Conditions:

• Monday through

Friday:

5 outdoor teaching days per week.

• Work environment includes open flames, toxic or caustic chemicals, and all season outdoor weather conditions.
• This position occasionally requires overnight camping in traditional tent/campground during programming.

Physical Demands:

10% Sitting, 30% Standing, 20% Walking, 35% Lifting/Carrying/Pushing/Pulling Pounds 5 - 80 lbs The Portland Forest School is an Equal Opportunity Employer valuing diversity and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job. Application Deadline Rolling Application, Opened until filled Interview Process & Dates Each candidate will be interviewed by Forest School staff and may be required to participate in a shadow day of our Lower Grade pod/class (K-2).

Apply immediately:

We are hiring on a rolling basis

EMAIL SUBMISSIONS PREFERRED

To apply: Please email your cover letter & resume to jobs@portlandforestschool.

org with the subject:

"Portland Forest School Kindergarten Assistant"

Pay:

$23.00 - $25.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person