Kindergarten Associate Teacher

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 seeking full-time Kindergarten Associate Teachers for the 2026–2027 school year, starting in September 2026.

The Associate Teacher Program at The Dalton School offers a valuable opportunity for aspiring educators to develop their teaching skills by working closely with experienced teachers and mentors in a progressive educational setting. Associate Teachers play an integral role in the First Program community, collaborating with Head Teachers on all classroom responsibilities, both academic and organizational.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Teacher with daily classroom operations, including lesson preparation and classroom setup.
• Plan and lead small group or whole-class lessons.
• Assess and document students’ needs.
• Attend and actively participate in Curriculum Night, grade-level meetings, parent–teacher conferences, student support meetings, Associate Teacher meetings, and professional development sessions.
• Engage in curricular planning and classroom management discussions.
• Write student progress reports each trimester.
• Supervise lunch, recess, and dismissal duties.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required; enrollment in or progress toward an advanced degree in Elementary or Early Education is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience working with Lower School students is strongly preferred.
• Strong proficiency with technology.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Strong organizational and executive functioning skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and effectively prioritize multiple, competing tasks and demands.
• Quick learner with a strong work ethic and willingness to develop new skills.
• Demonstrated cultural competency, including the ability to engage with and learn from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and a commitment to ongoing learning about inclusion.
• Bilingual English/Spanish speakers are of special interest, as our students begin learning Spanish in Kindergarten.
• Demonstrate professionalism through appropriate attire, discretion with sensitive information, and respectful interactions with colleagues at all times.

Pay

Salary Range: $66,000 – $69,000. The position on the scale will be based on years of teaching experience and education. Exemption Status: Exempt