Closing Assistant Teacher/Behavior Specialist - American Montessori Academy

Do you have a passion for helping children thrive? Are you skilled in positive behavior interventions and supporting students with complex learning needs?

We are seeking a qualified and enthusiastic Closing Assistant Teacher/Behavior Specialist to join our vibrant Montessori elementary program (ages 6-9). This is a unique opportunity to combine your love of Montessori education with your expertise in social-emotional learning.

Responsibilities:

• Support Lead Teacher in implementing the Montessori curriculum during the afternoon work cycle. This includes taking direction from the Lead Teacher, guiding independent work, and fostering a positive learning environment.
• Create and implement engaging and age-appropriate afternoon activities to foster creativity, collaboration, and social skills development.
• Complete cleaning duties as assigned and reset classroom at the end of the day to prepare for the next school day.
• Communicate observations, concerns, updates, etc regarding students with the lead teacher and other members of the classroom team.
• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and other specialists to develop and implement positive behavior interventions for students with challenging behaviors. Utilize de-escalation and self-regulation techniques to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all.
• Collect and document data on student behavior and progress. Collaborate with the team to track the effectiveness of interventions and make adjustments as needed.
• Build positive relationships with students, fostering self-regulation skills and social-emotional development.
• Maintain a positive and orderly classroom environment that fosters respect, cooperation, and independent learning.
• Accompany students on excursions (park, library, museum outings, etc)
• Participate in professional development opportunities as assigned.Qualifications:
• Minimum 2 years of experience working with children in an educational setting, preferably in a Montessori classroom.
• At least 2 years of experience in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and/or a strong willingness to complete Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training.
• Strong understanding of child development, particularly in the 6-9 age range.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Positive attitude, patience, and a genuine love for working with children.

We Offer:

• Salary range of $17-21/hour, commensurate with experience
• Benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
• Professional development opportunities to further develop your skills in Montessori education and behavior management.
• The chance to make a positive impact on the lives of children.

About Us:

Located steps from downtown Chicago in the historic Dearborn Station at Polk and Dearborn (47 W Polk St), American Montessori Academy is a private Montessori School and AMS Full-Member School. Our mission is to foster an enriching and challenging educational environment where each child is encouraged to grow to his or her fullest academic, emotional and social potential. We are seeking teachers who will strive, along with other team members, to implement and achieve such an environment so that a consistent Montessori framework for learning is developed, thus educating the full human capacity of each student. If you are interested in working with children in a beautiful learning environment with a warm and caring staff, please submit your resume for consideration.

Visit our website at: www.amaschools.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• What is your personal email address?
• What interests you about working in a Montessori school?
• What are your preferred pronouns?
• What experience(s) do you have in childcare or working with children with complex learning needs?

Experience:

• Childcare: 1 year (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Chicago, IL 60605 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person