Lower School Assistant Teacher - 2nd Grade

Job Description

Job Description

Lower School Assistant Teacher - 2nd Grade

Job Description

Dwight-Englewood School

We are seeking a dedicated 2nd Grade Lower School Assistant Teacher for the 2026-27 school year. The person in this role will work closely with the lead teacher to ensure a cohesive and well-supported learning environment for all students.

The Dwight-Englewood Lower School is a place where teachers encourage children to embrace every aspect of childhood play and exploration, while paying close attention to each students’ growth and progress. Our faculty understand the importance of balancing explicit instruction with more open-ended inquiry, and they bring this perspective to their planning and work with students. In addition, faculty understand the importance of observing and assessing students both formally and informally in all subject areas and throughout the day in order to plan instruction for whole groups, small groups and individuals. The ability to listen, work with a diverse community and a range of learners, as well humor and humility are essential. Dwight-Englewood encourages faculty to practice both the art and science of teaching, and we seek out teachers who are excited by the opportunity to do so.

Lower School assistant teachers are a vital part of the grade-level team. Working closely with the classroom teachers, learning specialists and administration, the assistant teachers support the children and the classroom teachers in all aspects of their Lower School experience. Assistant teachers set goals alongside their cooperating teachers and participate in the full life of the school. We value their contributions and support their continued professional development.

Responsibilities:

• Support and model the spirit of the mission and founding documents of the Dwight-Englewood School

• Collaborate and communicate with teachers to know and support the academic, social, physical and emotional needs of children

• Work with classroom teachers to create a classroom/learning environment that is developmentally appropriate and supports a range of learners

• Continue to grow as a professional through internal and external professional development opportunities and participation in learning communities

• Support the range of students through work with whole groups, small groups and individual check-ins. This may require work with students who need remediation or more challenging material, as needed and determined alongside the classroom teacher and the student support team.

• Assist in planning and delivering instruction for small and large group activities that promote social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Subject areas including but not limited to math, reading, word work, and writing.

• Work with classroom teachers to assess and collect information about students using a variety of tools including formal and informal assessments. Use information to inform instruction and share with classroom teachers, administrators, and parents during conferences.

• Support the lead teacher with the creation of regular newsletters to families.

• Supervise children during non-academic times such as snack, recess, rest, and dismissal, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.

• Participate in school and classroom events such as parent conferences, grade-level planning meetings, and weekly faculty meetings after school.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the lead teacher or administrative team.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education

• Ability to connect well with young children and adults

• Willingness to take initiative and learn quickly

• Understanding of current practices in early childhood and an ambition to be a Lead Teacher is preferred.

• Understanding of developmental and curricular expectations and benchmarks for early childhood and elementary school aged children.

• Previous teaching experience in a lower school setting is preferred.

• Familiarity with a variety of responsive classroom practices.

• Desire to work in a community committed to professional development and a willingness to learn.

New faculty orientation begins in late-August and the school year concludes for teachers in mid-June.

The compensation is an annual salary of $51,110.

Dwight-Englewood School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of sex, ethnicity, age, national origin, religion, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or military veteran status. The diversity of our student body supports our commitment to employ a diverse faculty and staff. Educators from all backgrounds who bring knowledge and expertise in equity, diversity and multicultural education are especially encouraged to apply.