Aidan’s mission is to help children realize their full potential and become independent, self-motivated, personally and socially responsible citizens of the world. We do this by following the principles of Montessori education and by cultivating a community centered on curiosity, respect, humanity, and peace. We embrace diversity, striving to maintain an inclusive, equitable environment, where every individual feels a genuine sense of belonging.
Every Aidan employee should:
Embody Aidan’s mission in daily responsibilities and interactions.
Contribute to the development of a world-class Montessori Education.
Contribute to a high-performing team that supports the growth of each child.
Ensure all children have a full range of developmentally appropriate experiences to thrive in a Montessori learning environment.
Arrive on time, work required hours, and handle all aspects of their role with professionalism.
Follow the school’s mission, values, and Employee Handbook.
Perform all necessary duties both inside and outside of the classroom including attending all required meetings and events.
Submit and keep up to date with any paperwork required by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education and the School.
In conjunction with their supervisor, set professional goals annually and create and follow through on a plan for professional development.
Classroom Assistants work directly with the Lead Montessori Teacher to prepare and maintain an orderly, attractive, and joyful environment. Alongside the other adults, they observe and model courteous and respectful behavior as well as contribute to the warm, supportive, and peaceful atmosphere.
Specific Duties:
Preparation of the Environment
The classroom environment should be prepared during the opening weeks of school and maintained throughout the year. Assist the Lead Teacher in preparing and maintaining it.
Perform care and maintenance of the environment including but not limited to:
Supporting the Lead Montessori Teacher
Follow the instructions of the Lead Teacher for both ongoing duties and direct instruction. Under their direction, help establish a classroom culture of calm, respect, and productive work.
Observe the activities of the students and take the time to communicate observations to the guides.
Be a model to students of integrity, curiosity, responsibility, creativity, and respect for all persons as well as demonstrate respect and appreciation for racial, cultural, and gender diversity.
Professional Growth
Seek feedback to improve performance in supporting the environment and the teacher in working with the children
Reflect on and pursue the development of professional growth; work with a direct supervisor to evaluate and improve skills.
Participate in structured and informal professional development opportunities.
Communication and Professionalism
Model excellent manners and demonstrate rapport with, and respect and kindness for all of the students and adults in the School. Collaborate with colleagues to ensure a joyful and safe school environment.
Maintain a positive and professional relationship with parents. Direct parents who have questions or concerns to the Lead Montessori Teacher and/or Administrators.
Aidan Montessori School is a premier independent Montessori school, and one of the oldest in the country. It serves 200 children in historic Woodley Park in Washington, DC.