K-3 Chess Assistant

About the role

The Dalton School, a progressive K-12 gender-inclusive school in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, is consistently recognized as one of the preeminent independent day schools in the nation. Known for its child-centered approach and an exceptional, inspiring faculty, Dalton enrolls over 1,300 students with approximately 350 faculty and staff. Guided by the Dalton Plan, the foundation of a Dalton education, our faculty meets each student’s evolving needs, interests, and abilities. Dalton challenges each student to develop intellectual independence, creativity, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility toward others both within the School and in the broader community. We are in search of a dynamic, innovative, and dedicated full-time Chess Assistant to join our esteemed Chess Program for the upcoming 2026-27 school year. This position reports to and works with the Chess Program Director, contributing to an inclusive chess environment. We are looking for a candidate who possesses creative problem-solving skills, a sense of humor, and strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with colleagues and students alike.

Responsibilities

• Assist the chess teacher in implementing engaging lessons based on the Dalton chess curriculum for students in Grades K-2.
• Take the lead in teaching chess classes when the head teacher is away.
• Ensure that students develop good study habits and learn to be effective team members.
• Work closely with individual and small groups of students with advanced chess knowledge, conducting three chess labs per week for selected/interested students in grades K-3.
• Facilitate early morning chess clubs five times per week (Hours: 7:30 AM – 8:10 AM).
• Provide valuable support to the chess teacher in writing student narrative reports. Prepare student observations for the reports, including narrative descriptions of students' achievements and areas for growth.
• Assist in managing and maintaining the care of chess equipment.
• Engage respectfully with children and their families, demonstrating sensitivity to various cultures, values, configurations, and beliefs.
• Other duties as assigned by the Chess Program Director.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• An active player with an over-the-board US Chess rating of 2000+ is preferred.
• Solid understanding of child development, incorporating best practices, and current trends in elementary education.
• Demonstrated classroom management skills, showcasing proficiency in time management, and organization of classroom space and materials for optimal learning outcomes.
• Engage in developmentally and age-appropriate interactions, providing constructive feedback, and positive conduct with students.
• Experience with differentiating instruction.
• Capable of developing high-quality instructional materials.
• Outstanding interpersonal, organizational, executive functioning, and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with integrating technology effectively into classroom instruction to enhance student learning experience.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple responsibilities with ease.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• Over 3 years of experience in teaching and/or assisting with chess in the United States.
• A proven track record in tournament play.
• Possession of recognized chess titles and certifications.

Salary Range: $62,500 – $66,500. Placement in the range is commensurate with experience. Exemption Status: Exempt. This is a full-time, 10-month position (September – June).