Teacher Assistant

About the role

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership.

The Teacher Assistant position provides a unique opportunity for talented individuals with limited or no experience in education to explore the field of education and gain hands-on practice supporting the mission-critical work of teachers. Teacher Assistants will observe best practices in classroom instruction and education reform from experienced teachers and school leaders at a leading charter management organization.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers with instruction, assessments, grading, and other classroom responsibilities.
• Potentially teach small groups of students.
• Support students by providing one-on-one and small group tutoring daily, and small group intervention and student support.
• Observe Master Teachers in order to improve instructional techniques and classroom management.
• Provide administrative support including but not limited to copies, hallway duty, organizing classroom materials, etc.
• Participate in grade-level activities, and school-wide functions, events, and trips.
• Provide consistent rewards and/or consequences for student behavior.
• Serve as an advisor to a small group of students.
• Supervise students during transitions, breakfast, lunch, and afterschool.
• Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues.
• Participate in an annual three-week staff orientation and training.

Qualifications

• Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom.
• Evidence of self-motivation, willingness to be a team player, and a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Hard-working, urgent, energetic, and willing to learn and adapt.
• Extremely reflective and constantly wants to improve; is flexible and enjoys dealing with unpredictability.
• Strong time management skills; ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills, communication skills (particularly with children), and problem-solving skills.
• Interest in performing a critical support role and the ability to excel in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, results-oriented environment.
• Prior experience working in schools and/or urban communities is preferred but not required.
• Relentless commitment to the mission of educating urban students.
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.
• Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required. A background in education is not required, though candidates should show a demonstrated passion for working with K-12 students.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer).
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans plus pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health savings accounts (HSA).
• 403(b) retirement savings program with employer match.
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.).
• Mental health and counseling support plus wellness benefits.

Pay

Compensation for this role is $40,000.