Classroom Assistant (Primary K3-K5)

About us Highland Community School is a public, non-instrumentality charter school in the Milwaukee Public Schools district. We are a community of diverse families and educators working together to offer quality Montessori education in a nurturing environment that enriches, empowers and inspires the whole child to reach their potential. We encourage and support parents to be responsible for and involved with their children's education.

Overview:

We are looking for a Montessori Classroom Assistant to join our team working in a Primary classroom with ages K3-K5. The Classroom Assistant supports the Montessori Guide in maintaining a prepared Montessori environment that fosters independence, engagement, and respect. This role contributes to the smooth daily functioning of the classroom by supporting student learning, assisting with classroom management, and ensuring a safe, orderly environment. The Assistant promotes positive discipline practices and supports students' academic, physical, and social-emotional development while modeling the school's mission, vision, and values. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Student Support & Supervision Support the physical safety and emotional well-being of all students under supervision. Assist students with varying needs, including those requiring additional academic, physical, or social-emotional support, under the direction of the Montessori Guide. Provide support to students with a wide variety of developmental needs including students with IEPs, 504 plans, and varying stages of readiness. Encourage independence by allowing students to problem-solve and complete tasks on their own, intervening thoughtfully when needed. Assist students, as appropriate, with daily routines such as dressing, toileting, and transitions while promoting self-care skills. Supervise students in classrooms, outdoor spaces, and common areas to ensure a safe and respectful environment. Classroom Culture & Positive Discipline Reinforce classroom expectations using positive discipline practices aligned with Montessori principles. Know and follow classroom and school-wide systems (e.g., Nautilus, recess expectations, etc.). Model respectful communication style using phrases, tone, words, and volume of the lead guide. Provide consistent follow-through on behavioral expectations and support students in developing self-regulation skills. Document and report behavioral incidents and accidents in a timely manner in accordance with school procedures and communicate them to the Guide by the end of the school day. Instructional Support Support the Montessori Guide during lessons by minimizing disruptions and helping maintain a focused learning environment. Assist with small group or individual student support in reading, math, or other areas as directed by the Guide. Observe student behavior and engagement and share relevant information with the Guide to support instructional planning. Prepared Environment & Materials Maintain a clean and safe classroom environment, including daily cleaning and organization of materials. Prepare classroom materials (e.g., copying, cutting, laminating) as directed by the Guide. Ensure materials are returned, complete, and ready for student use. Collaboration & Communication Maintain professional and respectful relationships with students, families, and staff. Communicate important information, observations, or concerns to the Guide in a timely manner. Follow the Guide's direction regarding classroom practices, student support, and communication with families. Participate in at least weekly check-ins with the Guide to review expectations, performance, and classroom needs. Professional Responsibilities Arrive on time and prepared for each workday. Attend staff meetings, professional development, in-service days, and required trainings. Support school operations, including daily recess, transitions, and wrap-around care (before/after school) as assigned. Participate in school events and activities as assigned. Elementary assistants participate in the annual overnight camping trip for their assigned level. Review written and electronic communication daily to stay informed of school updates. Performs duties in alignment with school policies and charter requirements and adapts to reasonable changes in assignments, schedule, or work setting to support school operations. Required Qualifications High school diploma. Experience working with children in an educational, childcare, or related setting. Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with students, staff, and families. Ability to pass a criminal background check and required health screenings prior to employment. CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment). Demonstrate alignment with the school's mission, vision, and values through professional conduct, respectful communication with students, families, and staff, and consistent adherence to school policies and expectations. Preferred Qualifications Associates degree or completion of some college coursework. Montessori experience or training. Experience supporting students with diverse learning, physical, or social-emotional needs. Key Competencies Ability to follow direction while demonstrating initiative and sound judgment. Collaborative mindset with respect for differing perspectives, a willingness to learn, and a solutions-oriented approach to challenges. Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and adapt to changing needs. If you are passionate about early childhood education and making a difference in the lives of young learners, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. Working Conditions & Physical Requirements This position is performed in a school environment with regular interaction with students, staff, and families. The role requires the ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Physical requirements of the role include: Frequent bending, kneeling, reaching, and floor-level engagement with children Sitting, standing, and moving throughout the classroom for extended periods Ability to supervise students in classrooms, outdoor spaces, and common areas Using a computer and other standard office equipment Occasional lifting, carrying, or assisting children and materials up to 50 pounds Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and in writing The school will provide reasonable accommodations to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Our school is committed to creating a respectful, inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of our community. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

Working with children: 2 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person