Support Teacher

Support Teacher

Reports To: Center Director

Pay Rate: $20–$24/hour

About Early Alpine Academy

Early Alpine Academy is a play-based, relationship-driven early learning program located in the heart of downtown Bozeman. We serve children from infancy through preschool with consistent daily rhythms, a team that truly shows up, and a deep commitment to connection—between teachers and children, between families and caregivers, and within our teaching team itself. Our classrooms and outdoor space are full of joyful play, hands-on exploration, and rich opportunities for social-emotional growth. Whether we're building with blocks, exploring nature, or diving into art and STEAM projects, we believe learning happens best when children feel safe, seen, and excited to be here. We work closely with Bozeman's working families to create a warm, dependable partnership—and a daily experience that feels as good as it is developmentally sound.

About the Role

As a Support Teacher, you'll play a unique and essential role in the rhythm of our day. This position is ideal for someone who loves variety, enjoys being on the move, and feels energized by working with many different children and teachers throughout the day. Rather than being assigned to a single classroom, Support Teachers float between classrooms, stepping in where support is most needed. This includes being the first to step into a classroom when a Lead or Assistant Teacher is out, helping provide continuity, stability, and care for children while keeping the day running smoothly. You'll help create calm during transitions, support teachers during busy moments, and adapt with confidence when plans shift. Support Teachers are deeply trusted members of our team. You'll bring a steady, positive presence wherever you go, build quick and meaningful connections with children, and collaborate with many teachers throughout the day. This role is perfect for someone who is go-with-the-flow, observant, collaborative, and eager to learn on the job. No two days look exactly the same—and that's what makes this role both challenging and rewarding.

What You'll Be Doing

Stepping into classrooms throughout the day to provide consistent, reliable coverage—especially when a Lead or Assistant Teacher is out—helping maintain continuity and care for children

Being a calm, grounding presence across the center, supporting children through transitions, busy moments, and changes in routine with patience and warmth

Working with children of different ages, meeting them where they are and building quick, positive connections through play and responsive interaction

Supporting daily rhythms such as drop-off, meals, outdoor time, rest time, and classroom transitions so children feel safe and secure

Collaborating with many teachers throughout the day, adapting to different classroom styles while staying aligned with Early Alpine's shared values and expectations

Jumping in during high-energy or high-need moments, offering extra support, flexibility, and care when it matters most

Helping maintain a beautiful, ready learning environment by resetting spaces, preparing materials, and keeping shared areas safe, clean, and organized

Learning on the job by observing experienced teachers, asking questions, and growing skills across age groups and classroom settings

Job Requirements

Brings a calm, grounded presence to busy or unpredictable moments and builds positive, respectful relationships with children and adults

Curious, observant, and eager to learn on the job, with a commitment to growing professionally

Communicates clearly and warmly with children, families, and team members

Reliable and accountable—someone teammates can count on to step in and follow through

Enrolled in the Montana Early Childhood Practitioner Registry (Level 0–2 to start)

Eligible to pass a background check and obtain CPR/First Aid certification

Physically able to engage with young children throughout the day, including lifting, bending, and active play

Compensation & Benefits

We believe caring for children starts with caring for our team. Early Alpine offers a thoughtful benefits package designed to support your health, family, and long-term wellbeing.

3 weeks of paid time off, plus paid holidays

Health insurance with employer contribution

Optional dental, vision, accident, and voluntary life & AD&D coverage

Employer-paid long-term disability and $25,000 life & AD&D coverage

401(k) retirement plan with employer matching

Childcare subsidy

Paid sabbatical program

Paid parental leave