Montessori Elementary Paraprofessional

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

The Elementary Paraprofessional supports the Lead Guide (teacher) in creating and maintaining a peaceful, engaging, and developmentally appropriate Montessori learning environment for students in the elementary classroom. This role works collaboratively with the classroom team to foster students' academic, social, emotional, and practical life skills while promoting independence, respect, and a lifelong love of learning. The paraprofessional serves as a positive role model and helps ensure the classroom operates smoothly and safely.

• Assist the Lead Guide in preparing, maintaining, and organizing the Montessori classroom environment.
• Support individual students and small groups with behavior interventions, task completion and movement breaks.
• Encourage student independence by guiding rather than completing tasks for students.
• Observe student behavior and progress, providing feedback to the Lead Guide as needed.
• Help maintain a calm, respectful, and orderly classroom that reflects Montessori principles.
• Supervise students during classroom transitions, outdoor play, lunch, field trips, and other school activities.
• Assist with classroom materials, record keeping, lesson preparation, and organization.
• Support students with varying learning needs while promoting inclusion and positive social interactions.
• Reinforce classroom expectations, conflict resolution strategies, and grace and courtesy lessons.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, and school operations.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with staff, students, and families.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events as requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Lead Guide or School Administration.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or higher preferred.
• Previous experience working with elementary-aged children in an educational setting preferred.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn Montessori philosophy and practices.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a classroom team.
• Patience, flexibility, and a nurturing approach to supporting children.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and positive relationships.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) may be required.
• Ability to pass required background checks and meet state licensing requirements.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and sit on the floor for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to actively supervise children both indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to perform routine classroom setup, cleaning, and organization.

• Understanding of child development and positive behavior support.
• Ability to follow instructional guidance while exercising sound judgment.
• Strong observation and classroom management skills.
• Effective time management and multitasking abilities.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful learning environment.
• Ability to adapt to changing classroom needs and priorities.