Career Center

Lower School Instructional Assistant for 1st-4th Grade Classrooms (1.0 FTE)

Westside School teachers and staff work collaboratively to inspire creativity, innovation, and to deepen our sense of community. Westside faculty are exceptionally qualified in our fields, committed to being lifelong learners, and are passionate about our work. Our academic structure places a high value on integrated curriculum and project-based learning, with intentional administrative support. At Westside School we value different backgrounds and ideas and we strive to build an inclusive community. Individuals from all cultures and communities are encouraged to apply.

Located in the Arbor Heights neighborhood of West Seattle, Westside serves ~400 students in preschool through eighth grade. Westside School has seen tremendous growth in the past two years, with waitlists from preschool to 4th grade. 29% of our student body are Black, Indigenous and People of Color. Westside’s Lower School serves 200 students in Kindergarten-4th grade, and is organized into grade level teams of 2 teachers and 2 instructional assistants, who collaborate to both implement and design meaningful curriculum. 

Westside is in search of individuals to join our Lower School team to support classrooms in all grades, 1st-4th grade. We are seeking candidates who are able to support the school’s focus on diversity and inclusion and who have a background that demonstrates an understanding and appreciation of intercultural fluency.   

The role of Lower School Instructional Assistant is to provide support to students throughout the school day. Many of our Instructional Assistant will spend time working in the two classes that make up the grade level and will work in collaboration with both teachers. The Instructional Assistant’s day may include leading small groups during literacy or math lessons, working one-on-one with students, and supervising students during recess.  It involves supporting lead teachers to build a community of learners in the classroom who respect and care for one another. Additionally, the Instructional Assistant participates in one afternoon per week of our Extended Day Program, which provides after school care support for families.

The Lower School Instructional Assistant works collaboratively with their classroom teacher and participates in the life of the school, attending some in-service days and school celebrations, and upholds the mission, vision, and values of Westside School.

Reports to: Lower School Head

Responsibilities include:

• Assists in general supervision in the classroom and performs duties as assigned by the classroom teacher.
• Establishes familiarity with the overall program and related resources and materials in order to assist actively in learning activities.
• Values and incorporates diverse perspectives in daily student interactions and within the curriculum.
• Supports classroom expectations that create a safe and comfortable environment for all students, in partnership with the lead teacher.
• Works with students in small groups, individually, or as a whole class.
• Helps to maintain an attractive classroom environment and materials.
• Sets annual goals for focus and growth with the Lower School Head.
• Shows initiative by asking for assignments that would expand performance and capability, under the direction of the lead teacher and/or Lower School Head.
• Performs such tasks and duties as assigned that would be generally within those functions to be expected at a school or as mutually agreeable between the Instructional Assistant and the teachers or Lower School Head.
• Supervises the playground/lunchroom as assigned, following established recess rules and discipline, and reporting notable student behaviors.
• Participates in one afternoon session per week of the Extended Day Program.
• If qualified, provides short-term substitution in the classroom for absent teacher in emergencies.

 Successful candidates will have the following personal and professional attributes:

• Love of working with children in an outstanding professional setting.
• Prior experience working with preschool or elementary school students.
• A willingness to learn about, reflect upon, and support a dynamic learning environment.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of the children and program.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to work and communicate well with all levels of faculty and staff.
• Ability to work and communicate well with students and their parents.
• An expressed effort to collaborate with colleagues, accept feedback and conduct oneself in a professional manner.
• A positive attitude and sense of humor.
• Associates or Bachelors Degree preferred.

 Start Date: August 18, 2022

Compensation and Benefits: This is a full-time position for the 2021-2022 academic school year. Westside School offers a generous benefits package to full time employees.  

COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate: Westside School follows WA State Government’s mandates in regard to COVID-19. This includes but is not limited to the mandate that all school employees are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 (excluding religious and medical exemptions), including a booster shot. New employees will be required to show proof of vaccination.

Westside School's Mission

Westside School prepares students for the world by challenging them to achieve academic success, and by connecting their human spirit and imagination to learning.

Westside School's Diversity Statement

Westside School is committed to promoting inclusiveness, diversity, and cultural competence in its education, employment practices, school community, and governance. It views inclusiveness as a fundamental value, diversity as a key element, and cultural competence as a vital skill necessary to prepare students to participate in and contribute to a global society. Westside uses the term diversity broadly to encompass differences in the attributes of individuals, families, and communities.

To Apply: Please submit a resume and cover letter, with three professional references, to employment@westsideschool.org

Westside School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.