Lower School (K-4) Associate Teacher

Open Window is currently accepting applications for a 2022-2023 Associate Teacher position in our Lower School.

Open Window School Associate Teachers work with experienced Lead Teachers to support our students as they cultivate their love of learning. This job requires energy, patience, empathy, flexibility, initiative, the ability to collaborate and a commitment to teamwork. Successful Associate Teachers must be able to navigate lower school classrooms (smaller student chairs/tables, floor-based activities, etc.), actively work outside in various kinds of weather, maintain regular attendance, be punctual, and dependable.

Many of our Associate Teachers stay with Open Window School for 2-3 years before pursuing a lead teaching opportunity, returning to school for a graduate program, or moving overseas to teach internationally. We understand that this position could be your stepping stone on your way to a successful teaching career. Open Window is excited to have exceptional candidates who enrich our school and endeavor in return to provide practical and unique experiences in gifted education that will enhance your long-term career goals.

Requirements Include:

Applicants must meet these requirements to be considered for the position:

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree
• Experience working with elementary school students, preferably in a classroom setting
• An interest in the social-emotional development of children
• Supportive of the school’s Diversity Commitment, in which we embrace both our commonalities and complex range of differences that enrich our school

The following are not required, but would enhance a candidate’s application:

• Experience with intellectually gifted children
• Teaching certificate or coursework relevant to child development or education

Expectations & Primary Duties Include:

• Build students’ confidence and self-esteem as you come to know them as learners and individuals
• Practice and model respect for individual differences, learning styles and rates of learning
• Encourage the development of shared community values, such as honesty, kindness and respect
• Maintain a cordial, flexible, and professional relationship with colleagues and parents
• Strong math and reading skills to help support children’s learning in the classroom
• Sufficient technology skills to help with organization, publishing student work, developing curricular materials, conducting research, etc.
• Working with students in small groups and in one on one settings providing authentic, differentiated learning experiences that build essential academic skills for each student
• Providing and preparing instruction for multiple levels of mathematics to small or large groups of students
• Supervising the playground, implementing recess rules and discipline
• Providing timely feedback to lead teacher concerning students’ social, emotional, behavioral, and academic progress
• Reviewing, commenting, and grading student work accurately, professionally and in a timely manner
• Assisting with administrative responsibilities (photocopying, mounting displays, filing student work, etc.)
• Taking initiative with the tasks that keep a classroom running smoothly
• Attending class daytime field trips; 4^th grade Associate Teachers are also asked to attend overnight trips
• Attending required in service days, meetings, seminars and training sessions
• Attending and participating in school events, sometimes in the evening
• Assuming the Lead Teacher role when necessary
• Assisting with applicant visits on selected weekend days
• Maintaining a high level of professionalism and confidentiality
• Engaging in self-assessment and working toward professional goals

Before School Program:

Associate Teachers supervise one day per week, for one quarter, during the school year. They may also be asked to cover for an absent coworker.  The before school program begins at 7:15 AM.  The before/after school program is an important part of the students’ day and provides an opportunity to work with a broader age range of students. 

Start Date:  August 22, 2022

Compensation & Benefits:    

This is an exempt, faculty position, not eligible for overtime.  Work schedule, not including before school care, is generally 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Tuesdays until 5:00 PM for faculty meetings. The OWS salary schedule for Associate Teachers can be found here: 22-23 OWS Associate Teacher Salary Schedule.

Important Note: As stated in Governor’s Proclamation 21-14, all employees engaging in work at a private or public school are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to your hire date. Proof of vaccination will be verified by the Human Resources Director after an employment offer has been extended and accepted. Please reach out to Human Resources at hr@ows.org if you need information on a medical or religious accommodation.

 Benefits include:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Health Reimbursement Account
• Health Flexible Spending Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• 403(b) Retirement Account, Pre-tax & Roth Options
  After completing one Year of Service at Open Window, as defined in the Plan’s eligibility terms, 3% of an employee’s eligible monthly salary will be contributed to their Open Window retirement account. A 3% matching contribution will also be made by Open Window each pay period that the employee contributes at least 3% of their eligible pay.
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Educational Assistance Program, providing tuition reimbursement for those pursuing advanced degrees.

To Apply:

Visit Open Window School's Career Opportunities site.

Please submit a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position, your resume, and answers to the Diversity Commitment Questions below. Applicants must submit an answer to both of the following Diversity Commitment Questions as a single word or pdf document:

1. How would you define diversity?
2. Describe how you have demonstrated a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in your current or prior job. If necessary, candidates can draw upon their experience in community organizations if professional experience is limited.

Please be prepared to provide 3-5 professional references and one personal reference if requested. If you are unable to apply online, you are welcome to fax your resume, cover letter, and answers to the Diversity Commitment Questions to 425-644-6320.

Open Window School does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, creed, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, or other status legally protected by local, state, or federal law.