Overview

Middle Way School (MWS) is pioneering a new model of education based on the best in education research and enhanced by the wisdom and compassion of Buddhist traditions. Master teachers with a deep understanding of childhood development are the pillars of this education. Assistant teachers work with lead teachers at MWS to carry out their instructional blocks as well as facilitate a harmonious and safe environment for snack and recess. Assistant teachers also support students’ development in all areas including social-emotional, physical, academic, and work with the lead teacher to integrate Buddhist wisdom and practice into the classroom. 

This Assistant Teacher (Part-Time) role will regularly support multiple classes and age groups each week, from ages 3 to 12, and will provide additional classroom coverage as needed.  

MWS school culture relies on daily meditation and ample professional support. We expect our teachers to meet conventional outcomes in unconventional ways and use skillful means to differentiate in ways that help meet students academically and socially. Teachers are expected to explore the Middle Way model of development and actively engage in its creation. Being a practicing Buddhist is not necessary, however, an understanding of Buddhist principles and terminology is expected. In addition, we ask that all staff develop a personal contemplative practice of some kind. 

We hire and enroll without discriminating against any identifying factor which may include race, age, national or ethnic origin,  religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic background. We will make accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities to the fullest extent possible. As an institution and as individuals we recognize that we have the responsibility to actively change the power differences that perpetuate biases against historically underrepresented groups. Our inclusion efforts are a dynamic process. We welcome your experience and invite your input on how our school community can continue to evolve.

Assistant Teacher Responsibilities

• Assisting and facilitating activities with lead teachers. 
• Supervising recess in collaboration with other teachers
• Supporting teachers in preparing and organizing learning materials 
• Caretaking the school environment, including cleaning and preparation, as well as supporting children to take care of the school environment
•  Supporting students’ social interactions and learning throughout the day to create a culture of harmony, reverence and respect.

Required Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or a minimum of three years relevant work experience.
• Elementary and/or early childhood teaching experience
• An interest in the Middle Way view and how to manifest it through presence and pedagogy 

Qualities

• A passion for education and carrying out the vision and mission of Middle Way
• An understanding of or keen interest in all or most of the following areas: integrated curriculum development, brain-based learning, project-based learning, early childhood development, mindfulness, class culture, authentic learning
• Flexibility, open-mindedness, adaptability, patience with change. Practicality and resourcefulness
• Openness to the teachings of the Buddhadharma
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Ability to work harmoniously within a group when it is necessary to facilitate change, overcome an impasse, face issues, or ensure that decisions are made.
• Ability to see the merits of perspectives other than his/her own; openness to different and new ways of doing things
• Reliability and respectfulness with an equitable, positive view of the students, co-workers, and parents. 
• Humor!

Physical Capabilities

• Ability to kneel, reach, run, bend, lift and stand for periods of time.
• Ability to lift 25-30 lbs.
• Ability to see, hear, and speak with children to ensure children's health and safety. 

Terms

• Part-time, exempt
• On-site at Middle Way School in Saugerties, NY for the remainder of the 2024-2025 academic year (through June 18, 2025).
• Schedule is M-F, 9:15 AM - 1:45 PM
• All school breaks paid 
• All employees must pass a New York State background check
• Salary $15,000-$17,000

About Middle Way School

Middle Way School is an independent progressive school with nearly 100 students ages 3-12 currently enrolled in grades pre-K through 6. As one of the first Buddhist schools for children, Middle Way is exploring the rich potential of integrating wisdom and compassion with progressive education. Our aspiration is to prepare students to take their places in the modern world with the noble qualities of intelligence, confidence and discipline, with an understanding of interdependence and a fundamental motivation of altruism. Middle Way is incorporated in the State of New York and recognized by the NYC Department of Education as a nonpublic school. It is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce. The research and development of the MWS model is overseen by Middle Way Education, a separate not for profit organization dedicated to creating pathways for traditional Buddhist wisdom and knowledge to enhance modern education for the benefit of this and future generations. We are grateful to the generous donors of Khyentse Foundation who have given significant financial support to the school. Guided by a number of teache...rs and scholars, Middle Way is not tethered to one single Buddhist tradition or path. Nor do we blend them together until they are unrecognizable. Rather, we respect the variety of wisdom traditions, the lineages, and the varied paths that have helped individuals connect with the wakefulness of the dharma for 2,500 years. We hire and enroll without discriminating against any identifying factor which may include race, age, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic background. We will make accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities to the fullest extent possible. As an institution and as individuals we recognize that we have the responsibility to actively change the power differences that perpetuate biases against historically underrepresented groups. Our inclusion efforts are a dynamic process. We welcome your experience and invite your input on how our school community can continue to evolve.

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Connections working at Middle Way School