Teacher Assistant, 1st Grade

Job Summary

At the lab school of Smith College, hands-on learning sparks intellectual engagement, research findings inform modern methods, and transformative relationships enrich masterful teaching. We are a progressive Kindergarten through sixth grade elementary school located in the heart of Northampton, MA.

The Teacher Assistant will assist with classroom supervision and provide clerical and instructional support for the supervising teacher.

Essential Functions

Teacher Assistant:

• Assist with instruction and evaluation of students as assigned by the supervising teacher; work with individuals or small groups of students on activities or projects or assignments; share observations of students with the supervising teacher; assess students’ work as designated by the supervising teacher.
• Assist in the preparation of materials for the classroom by creating and putting up bulletin boards; laminating materials; collecting and collating children’s work; setting up special projects.
• Supervise students in the classroom and/or on the playground. Work cooperatively with the supervising teacher and/or other classroom and playground supervisors to ensure the safety and well-being of students at all times; anticipate and respond to students’ needs for academic or behavioral assistance and guidance; facilitate daily activities and transitions in the classroom (e.g. from activity to activity, lunch, recess, arrival and dismissal) to ensure smooth classroom operations.
• Assist in the preparation of the classroom environment by collecting, organizing, and displaying materials; setting up activities; displaying children’s work; rearranging desks, chairs, tables, etc. as needed for particular activities; clean-up at the end of the day.
• Provide clerical support for the supervising teacher by organizing student paperwork/folders; record keeping; maintenance of supplies in the classroom, etc.
• Other duties as may be assigned by the supervising teacher or school administration.
• Review the Parent Handbook for important information and school philosophies, procedures, etc.
• Understand and support the Community & Civility Frameworks within the program.