Pre-K Assistant Teacher

Position Title: Assistant Teacher

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Lead Teacher / Program Director

Work Location: In Person – Santa Fe, NM

Position Summary

The Facilitating Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in maintaining a safe, organized, and responsive Montessori classroom environment. This role assists with classroom supervision, student guidance, and the overall flow of the school day to ensure that children are cared for and engaged in developmentally appropriate activities.

The Facilitating Teacher provides active supervision, supports behavior guidance, and helps maintain consistency in classroom routines and expectations. While responsibilities are collaborative within the teaching team, this role focuses on supporting instruction, classroom management, and student wellbeing under the direction of the Lead Teacher.

About Desert Montessori School

Desert Montessori School (DMS) is an independent Montessori school serving children ages 2 through 12 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. DMS provides a thoughtfully prepared learning environment grounded in Montessori principles and informed by best practices in contemporary education.

The school is committed to maintaining strong academic standards, respectful communication, and a safe, developmentally appropriate environment that supports the growth of the whole child.

Key ResponsibilitiesClassroom Support

• Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining an orderly and prepared classroom environment
• Support daily classroom routines and transitions
• Provide active supervision to ensure student safety at all times

Student Guidance & Engagement

• Support students in following classroom expectations and routines
• Assist with behavior guidance using developmentally appropriate practices
• Help facilitate student engagement in classroom activities

Instructional Assistance

• Support the implementation of Montessori materials and lessons as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Prepare and organize classroom materials
• Assist with classroom setup and maintenance

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the teaching team to maintain consistency and classroom tone
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development activities
• Communicate professionally with families and colleagues as appropriate

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma
• Experience working with children in a classroom or childcare setting
• Ability to work collaboratively within a teaching team
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Montessori training or familiarity with Montessori philosophy
• associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Education or related field
• CPR/First Aid certification
• Experience working with mixed-age classrooms

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation: $36,000 - $45,000

Benefits may include:

• Paid time off
• Professional development support
• Retirement plan options
• Tuition remission (if applicable)
• Maternity/Parental Leave (if applicable)

Equal Employment Opportunity

Desert Montessori School is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under applicable law.

Pay: $36,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person