Primary Classroom Assistant

About the Position

Wild Fern Montessori School seeks a Full-Time Classroom Assistant to start immediately. Working alongside our Lead Teacher, you will help establish and maintain a harmonious, nurturing classroom environment that supports each child's growth and development in our authentic Montessori setting.

Role of the Assistant

• Support the Lead Teacher and promote peace in the classroom
• Foster independence and model grace & courtesy consistently
• Maintain a positive classroom environment that supports each child's individual needs

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with classroom preparation and maintenance in line with Montessori pedagogy
• Maintain accurate, confidential records of children's progress
• Support Summer Camp Program and school events (orientations, community activities, fundraisers)
• Participate in regular staff meetings and professional development
• Uphold all WFMS policies and VDOE licensing standards, including confidentiality and safety

Required Qualifications

• Passion for early childhood education with a nurturing, calm, and respectful approach
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 1 year in a preschool-aged classroom (Montessori experience preferred)
• Ability to work year-round
• Willingness to complete background checks and obtain 16 hours of yearly continuing education

Required Before Hire

• Current TB test (no less than 30 days prior to hire date )
• Central Registry Background Check
• State Fingerprinting Background Check & Sex Offender Registry Check

Must be willing and able to complete CPR/1st Aid Certification, MAT Certification, and all other required VDOE and WFMS trainings.

Position Details:

• Location: Wild Fern Montessori School 5610 Brook Rd. Richmond, VA 23227
• Hours: Full-Time 7:30 - 3:30
• Starting Pay Rate: $17/hr
• Benefits: Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Professional Development, 401K

Working Conditions:

WFMS Assistants work in a mixed-age classroom setting (Toddler: 18 months - 3 years, Primary: 3 - 6 years) which requires assisting children with toileting. The role involves long periods of sitting and standing and the ability to lift up to 50lbs.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Classroom: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person