Montessori Preschool Teaching Assistant and Certified Leads at Virginia Montessori Academy

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionSummaryTeaching Assistants - Montessori MethodWhat could be more rewarding than helping young toddlers and preschool aged children develop their full potential? If you have a passion for teaching, nurturing and developing cognitive, emotional, social and intellectual competence for toddlers and preschoolers, this is the perfect role for you.Virginia Montessori Academy aims to provide an authentic Montessori experience; inspiring the growth of the whole child by providing a safe, secure and loving environment. Across all three of our classrooms - toddlers 16 months to 2 years old, 2-3 years old and 3-6 years old - we take pride in allowing for individualized education that builds a love of learning and promotes independence that prepares the child for success in their adult lives. We consider the emotional, intellectual, physical, and social development of the whole child by following the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori.At Virginia Montessori Academy, we believe in working hand in hand with parents and families. Parents are their children's first teachers and we are a system of support. A cooperative relationship between home and school can contribute to the success of a child. We believe the adults in our school community are role models. We are here to guide the children in independence, critical thinking, problem solving techniques, social grace and courtesy as well as respect for all. Read more about our mission, vision and values @www.vamontessoriacademy.comDutiesAs a Teaching Assistant, you'll collaborate with lead teachers to create a supportive, intelligent and safe environment for children. You'll exhibit kindness, patience and effective communication to care for children, while giving parents peace of mind. In this role, you will:Build trusted relationships with lead teachers, parents and childrenCreate a rapport with the children and be responsive to their needs, guiding them through self-directed activitiesOrganize materials and clean workspace to facilitate the learning process for each childMaintain open lines of communications with parents to answer questions, provide constructive advice and take feedbackKeep notes and records of development milestones and setbacksFoster a nurturing, safe and stimulating, environment, along with lead teachers, that allow children to develop at their own paceExhibit passion for character development, leadership and team buildingRequirementsYou're great with young kids, friendly and a team player. You know the devil is in the details and you go the extra mile to make sure that lead teachers feel supported and parents are at ease, knowing their children are in good hands. You have a principled approach to work and take pride in the critical role that you'll play in furthering development. You'll also have the following requirements for the role:1+ years of experience working in a licensed childcare facility preferredExcellent communication skillsPatient and receptive to feedbackReliable transportation and a valid driver's licenseBackground checkWillingness to take a TB test and physicalWilling to complete professional development hours, required by the stateAssociate's degree or higher in Early Childhood Development or related field preferred, not required.Ability to stand for extended hours and be able to lift and carry children if needed.Nice To HavesAssociate's degree or higher in Early Childhood Development or related field preferred, not required.Montessori CredentialBenefitsWhen you join us, you can expect to work alongside professional, experienced and friendly professionals. Our first-class facility has earned trust and recognition from day one. Some of the perks of joining us include:$15/hour starting pay Part-time and full-time opportunities availableMontessori training available to high-potential candidatesHealth and dental insurance to full-time employeesLearning and development opportunities