Upper Elementary Assistant Teacher (Ages 9-12) - 2025/2026 School Year

We are an independent Montessori school in Chicago serving over 500 students and their families, starting at a parent-infant class and up to 8th grade. We are a community of shared values working to fulfill a meaningful mission. NNM faculty, staff and parents strive for an equitable and inclusive school culture through intentional, reflective practices. We work together to challenge all students to think for themselves, pursue their ideas and become real learners for the real world.

Learn more about us on our website: www.nnms.org

We are seeking an Elementary Assistant Teacher to join our team here at Near North Montessori for the 2025/2026 school year!

The role of the Assistant Teacher will support various aspects of the Upper Elementary program for ages 9 to 12.  The Upper Elementary classroom assistant position serves the students of Near North Montessori (NNM) by providing additional support in the development of the student in the Montessori environment through the preparation of the environment, modeling grace and courtesy, observation, assistance with follow-up work, and communication with families.

Schedule: 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday, with shifts falling between 8:00am and 6:00pm during the school year, with adjustments or additional time as needed. This role may also include an opportunity to work summer camps if desired.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Assist with maintaining a classroom true to the Montessori philosophy, including fostering a classroom community of respect and kindness
• Prepare and maintain a Montessori environment, including developmentally appropriate materials and activities
• Support the teacher as needed and directed in the classroom and school environment
• Provide instruction and support to students' work throughout the day
• Help maintain attendance and other written or electronic records
• Supervise students at lunch, recess and nap periods; support transitions to and from each throughout the day
• Assist in the daily cleaning routines in the classroom and prepare/ maintain materials for student work
• Observe student behaviors and step in when appropriate, communicating student progress or concerns with the teacher and other faculty
• Assist with drop off and pick up at the start and end of each school day
• Attend and participate in meetings both 1-on-1 or within groups for the position, classroom, or level 
• Support classroom events and trips including outings, class gatherings, performances and more
• Acquire professional training and development in the educational field by attending coaching sessions, training workshops and other related learning activities
• Attend a week long overnight camping trip to assist with the supervision of students at the end of the school year
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required, assigned, or requested

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience working with children ages 9 to 12, preferably in a Montessori, educational setting
• Basic understanding of a child's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development
• Reliable, flexible and able to provide a high level of support to colleagues and students
• Demonstrated commitment to cultural competency, and developing skills to support a diverse student population
• Effective communicator, verbal, and written, with children and adults

Full-time employment to start in August of 2025; however we would like to have this position filled by June of 2025.

Pay Information: The pay range for this position is $23.36 - $26.00 an hour based on skills and experience.

Near North Montessori offers a variety of benefits which include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision options
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• EAP Program & Pet Insurance
• Flexible Paid Time off
• Professional Development Opportunities

Near North Montessori believes that each individual is entitled to equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, ancestry, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws. The School’s equal employment opportunity practices extend to recruitment, hiring, selection, compensation, benefits, transfer, conditions, and privileges of employment.