Beginning and Lower School Teaching Assistant

Catlin Gabel School seeks to employ the best qualified individuals and provide them with opportunity for advancement in a manner that values each employee’s contribution to the school’s success. This position description outlines primary duties and qualifications but is not limited to the work identified.

About the Role

The BLS Teaching Assistant supports teachers and children in the classroom, outdoors, and in specialist classes, helping to create an inclusive learning environment for students. The role includes supervising children during meetings, assisting in After School Programs, and contributing to a collaborative and equitable school community.

Responsibilities

• Supervise students in the classroom, lunchroom, outdoors, at recess, and other settings.
• Support the teaching team through material preparation, technology support, classroom management, and maintenance of learning environments.
• Lead and supervise activities in small groups, whole groups, and with individual children across all subject areas.
• Apply conflict resolution, differentiation, and classroom management strategies while supporting child development.
• Contribute to school efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an inclusive and responsive environment for children’s individual identities.
• Provide care before and after school, on non-school days, and during Community Connections.
• Pursue 15 hours of professional development annually and attend orientations, staff meetings, and training sessions as assigned.
• Maintain current certifications: Oregon Child Care Division Central Background Registry, Food Handler, CPR/First Aid, and professional development hours in Oregon Registry Online (ORO).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• AA in education or related field preferred; equivalent combination of training and experience may substitute.
• At least six months of experience implementing activities for young children in childcare or educational settings.
• Enrollment in Oregon Office of Child Care’s Central Background Registry.
• Food Handlers certificate and current CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to attain within 30 days of hiring).
• Must pass a criminal background check and drug screen.

Skills

• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate activities and child development.
• Ability to build positive, professional relationships with parents, caregivers, and colleagues.
• Strong conflict management and communication skills.
• Cultural competency and ability to foster inclusivity in diverse settings.
• Collaborative teamwork, problem-solving, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Strong organizational skills and time management.
• Proficiency with Word, Outlook, and Google Drive.

Interpersonal Contacts

The Teaching Assistant interacts daily with children, parents, teachers, Assistant Heads of Beginning and Lower School, the Director of After-School Programs, and After-School Program staff. Some interactions involve confidential information.

Schedule

The Teaching Assistant works on days when classes or childcare are in session, including the week before and after the school year. Work involves daily outdoor activities in varying weather conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Mobility to move about the campus and ensure the safety of young children.
• Ability to communicate effectively with children, colleagues, and families.
• Occasional lifting of 30-50 pounds and frequent bending, squatting, stooping, and kneeling.

Pay

Based on experience: $24/hour - $27/hour.