Assistant Teacher
Geist Montessori Academy (GMA) | McCordsville, Indiana
About Us
Geist Montessori Academy is a public K-8 Montessori charter school authorized by Ball State University, serving approximately 315 students across our elementary and middle school programs, plus a private PreK. Our classrooms are organized in two-year Montessori bands - from PreK and Kindergarten through 7th/8th grade. At the heart of our model is the three-hour uninterrupted work cycle, where children move freely through purposeful, hands-on learning guided by Montessori-credentialed lead teachers and the assistant teachers who partner with them every day.
Position Summary
The Assistant Teacher works alongside a Lead Teacher to support a multi-age Montessori classroom, helping to maintain a prepared environment where children can work independently and in community. This is a hands-on, relationship-centered role: youll observe children closely, support their work cycle, model grace and courtesy, and help the classroom run as a calm, orderly, purposeful space.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the Lead Teacher to prepare, maintain, and refresh the classroom environment so materials are accessible, orderly, and inviting
- Support children individually and in small groups during the three-hour work cycle, reinforcing lessons introduced by the Lead Teacher
- Observe and document student engagement, behavior, and progress to inform planning
- Model and reinforce grace and courtesy, peace talks, and community meeting norms consistent with Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom
- Supervise students during transitions, outdoor time, lunch, and other non-classroom settings
- Support students with individualized needs, including those with IEPs, 504 plans, or EL services, in coordination with support staff
- Assist with materials preparation and administrative tasks as needed
- Maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom culture aligned with GMAs mission and values
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and Montessori-related training
Qualifications
- High school diploma required
- Experience working with children in a classroom, childcare, or similar setting preferred
- Genuine interest in child development and the Montessori philosophy
- Patience, warmth, and a calm, steady presence with children
- Strong observational skills and ability to work collaboratively with a Lead Teacher
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and communicate professionally with families and staff
- Must pass required background checks per Indiana charter school employment requirements