Jobs

Assistant Early Childhood Teacher

St. Michael’s Country Day School, an independent, non-sectarian school in Newport, RI serving students in toddler through grade eight, seeks a full-time Assistant Early Childhood Teacher to join our dynamic early childhood program.

The Assistant Teacher works in close collaboration with the Lead Teacher to support the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social development of children. Ideal candidates are nurturing, reflective, and eager to learn from and contribute to a strong, mission-driven teaching team. This role is for individuals seeking to grow their practice in a joyful, child-centered environment that emphasizes a play-based, emergent, and inquiry-driven curriculum.

Candidates must:

• Possess at least one year of experience working with young children (ages 2–5); a bachelor’s degree or significant coursework in early childhood education is preferred.
• Demonstrate a passion for working with young children and an understanding of their developmental needs.
• CPR and First Aid certified (or willing to become certified)
• Exhibit cultural sensitivity and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with children, colleagues, and families.
• Show professionalism, ethical awareness, and a receptive attitude toward feedback and professional growth.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team, taking direction while also contributing ideas and initiative.

Responsibilities include:

• Supporting the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing activities that nurture developmentally appropriate growth across domains.
• Facilitating small group, large group, and one-on-one learning experiences under the guidance of the Lead Teacher.
• Leading, supervising, and supporting activities in Extended School Day for Early Childhood students.
• Helping to create and maintain a classroom environment that is safe, organized, joyful, and responsive to children’s interests.
• Observing children’s development and supporting documentation of growth and learning.
• Engaging fully in outdoor and indoor play, including bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and lifting up to 40 pounds as needed.
• Assisting with classroom routines such as transitions, snack, lunch, rest time, and toileting in a way that promotes independence and social-emotional learning.
• Modeling kindness, flexibility, curiosity, and empathy in all interactions.
• Participating in ongoing professional development, reflective teaching practices, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
• Supporting school-wide events, meetings, and shared duties as a contributing member of the faculty.

St. Michael’s is a joyful, nurturing environment that values developing courageous learners and caring citizens who are world ready. We seek educators who are playful, professional, and prepared to engage in the wonders of early childhood with an open mind, light heart, and a sense of wonder. Assistant Teachers are considered vital members of our teaching team and are provided with mentorship, professional development, and opportunities for growth within a supportive and vibrant community.

To learn more about St. Michael’s, visit www.smcds.org.
Anticipated start: August 2025

Qualified candidates should email their resume and supporting documents to jobs@smcds.org

St. Michael’s is an equal opportunity employer and as such does not discriminate against an  individual in regard  to race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or  related medical conditions), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran  status, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic  protected under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws.