Student Support Specialist

Waterford Montessori Academy is seeking a K-5 Student Support Specialist to join our team for the 2026-27 school year. This position will support instruction and student needs within a designated grade band (Kindergarten, Lower Elementary, or Upper Elementary). The Student Support Specialist assists the Lead Teacher in creating a calm, respectful, and engaging learning environment, while helping to support instruction, student supervision, and classroom management.

Job Responsibilities

1. Classroom and Instructional Support:

• Assists in preparation, organization, and maintenance of Montessori and classroom materials
• Supports implementation of lessons under the direction of the lead teacher(s)
• Supervises students individually, in small groups, or whole-group settings as directed
• Maintains a clean, safe, and orderly learning environment that supports student independence and concentration
• Observes student behavior and learning and communicates relevant information to teachers and team members

2. Montessori-aligned Student Support:

• Models respect, independence, and responsibility in alignment with Montessori philosophy
• Supports students in developing social-emotional skills, including conflict resolution and cooperation
• Empathy
• Self-regulation
• Encourages independence, choice, and self-directed learning
• Respects developmental differences and supports differentiated learning approaches
• Promotes purposeful movement and sustained concentration in the classroom environment

3. Grade-band Support Model:

• Provides flexible instructional and operational support across multiple classrooms within assigned grade band
• Collaborates with multiple lead teachers to support student learning and supervision needs
• Shares responsibilities, such as classroom transitions, small-group support, student supervision, and material preparation
• Supports consistency across classrooms within the grade band

4. Communication and Collaboration:

• Communicates respectfully and professionally with students, staff, and families as appropriate
• Participates in team-based planning and implementation of student supports
• Demonstrates initiative in supporting classroom and school-wide routines
• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teachers, Instructional Coach, Academic Support Team, Grade Level Leads, Special Education (SE), Social Work (SW), and Student Support Team.
• Contribute to a positive school culture

5. Professional Responsibilities:

• Maintains regular attendance and punctuality
• Maintains confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and school policy
• Demonstrates professionalism in communication, appearance, and interactions
• Works collaboratively within a grade-band team structure
• Completes assigned duties independently and efficiently
• Performs additional duties as assigned by administration or supervising teachers

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma
• Associates or Bachelors Degree (preferred)
• Prior experience working with children
• Prior experience working in a school setting (preferred)
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Commitment to Montessori philiosophy

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $20