Associate Teacher

Description

Marvelous Treasures Academy

Position Type: Full-Time (Exempt/Non-Exempt based on classification)
Reports To: Lead Teacher and School Director

About Marvelous Treasures Academy

Marvelous Treasures Academy is a neurodiversity-affirming microschool dedicated to educating and empowering students with diverse learning profiles. We provide individualized, strength-based instruction while nurturing each child's academic, social-emotional, and personal growth in a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

We believe every child has unique gifts, and our mission is to help each student discover, develop, and celebrate their treasures.

Position Summary

The Associate Teacher partners with the Lead Teacher to create an engaging, structured, and nurturing classroom where neurodiverse students can thrive. This role supports individualized instruction, social-emotional learning, executive functioning development, and positive behavior support while fostering student confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, collaborative, flexible, and passionate about helping children reach their full potential.

Essential Responsibilities

Academic Support

• Support the implementation of individualized lesson plans and instructional activities.
• Provide one-on-one, small-group, and whole-class support as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
• Reinforce academic concepts using evidence-based, multisensory teaching strategies.
• Monitor student progress and provide observations to the instructional team.

Social-Emotional Learning

• Foster trusting relationships with students built on respect, empathy, and encouragement.
• Support students in developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, resilience, and self-advocacy.
• Model positive communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
• Facilitate opportunities for students to build friendships, collaboration, and social confidence.
• Promote a classroom culture where every student feels valued, safe, and included.

Executive Function & Independence

• Support students with organization, planning, time management, task initiation, and self-monitoring.
• Encourage independence while providing appropriate levels of support.
• Assist students in developing routines and life skills that promote long-term success.

Classroom Environment

• Help maintain a calm, organized, and sensory-friendly classroom.
• Prepare instructional materials, learning centers, and classroom resources.
• Assist with classroom routines, transitions, enrichment activities, lunch, recess, and supervision.
• Ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming learning environment.

Behavior Support

• Implement positive behavior support strategies consistent with school philosophy.
• Assist with behavior intervention plans when appropriate.
• Use proactive, relationship-based approaches to support student success.
• Respond calmly and professionally to challenging behaviors while preserving student dignity.

Collaboration

• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, administrators, and families to support student success.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events.
• Maintain accurate documentation and confidentiality.
• Communicate professionally with families and colleagues.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with children in educational, childcare, therapeutic, or youth development settings.
• Passion for working with neurodiverse learners.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team.

Preferred

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field.
• Experience supporting students with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, or other learning differences.
• Knowledge of social-emotional learning (SEL), executive functioning, and trauma-informed practices.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Compassionate, patient, and relationship-focused
• Strong classroom management skills
• Ability to adapt instruction based on student needs
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Positive, flexible, and solution-oriented mindset
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and neurodiversity affirmation
• Professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and actively engage with students throughout the school day.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to supervise students indoors and outdoors.

Why Join Marvelous Treasures Academy?

At Marvelous Treasures Academy, you'll be part of a collaborative team that values innovation, compassion, and individualized learning. We are committed to creating a workplace where educators are supported, encouraged to grow professionally, and empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.

Our Core Values

• Every child is capable.
• Relationships come first.
• Differences are strengths.
• Growth is celebrated.
• Families are valued partners.
• Learning is personalized.
• Social-emotional wellness is essential.
• Every child deserves to belong.

Marvelous Treasures Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all students, families, and staff.