Part Time Lower School Support Teacher (PYP)

About the position

The PYP Support Teacher provides a unique opportunity for talented individuals with limited or no lead teaching experience to explore the field of a faith-based, International Baccalaureate (IB) education. Support Teachers will have an opportunity to observe best practices in classroom instruction from experienced teachers. Support teachers provide reinforcement of skills through small groups and one to one planning and instruction.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe school environment—indoors and out—per directives regarding building operations.
• Participate in brief staff prayer at 7:35 AM, Monday through Thursday in the Gathering Place.
• Complete assigned arrival duties.
• Fulfill essential job functions based on one’s specific job description, and assist others during school drills or emergencies as able.
• Be punctual, appropriately dressed, and prepared for work on assigned days/times.
• Adhere to all requirements outlined in the Staff Handbook and comply with school policies.
• Act as an excellent ambassador of Daystar Academy at all times.
• Become familiar with Daystar’s curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Framework.
• Collaborate with Lead Teachers in grading and in providing individual and/or small group instruction.
• Plan and implement small group lessons as guided by the cooperating Lead Teacher.
• Work with Lead Teachers in developing and reflecting on IB Unit Planners.
• Provide in-house substitute coverage for Lead Teachers if needed.
• Stay informed and reflective about educational issues and best practices.
• Maintain confidentiality about children, their families, and other employees.
• Partner with Lead Teachers in giving feedback during Parent/Teacher Conferences about students’ academic and social-emotional development.
• Suggest classroom activities (implementation subject to Lead Teacher approval).
• Ensure the safety of all students at all times.
• Assist in setting up and maintaining a creative, orderly, clean, and favorable learning environment.
• Demonstrate and reinforce respectful use of materials and the classroom environment.
• Help Lead Teacher with administrative and classroom maintenance tasks.
• Support the Responsive Classroom management philosophy and practice.
• Model positive and respectful interactions with all members of the Daystar community.
• Communicate observations or student concerns (academic, social, or behavioral) to the Lead Teacher.
• Greet students and ensure safe entry into the building.
• Keep the car line moving for continuous student drop-off.
• Supervise students during lunch in the cafeteria, monitor noise level and behavior, and ensure a safe and inclusive environment.
• Communicate concerns to the homeroom teacher.
• Supervise children in the hallways, lunchroom, and playground.
• Reinforce classroom directions and procedures.
• Support students' social-emotional development during free play, including conflict resolution.
• Attend and participate in in-service training, IB Training, and other meetings as requested by the Lead Teacher or Director of Lower and Middle School.
• Collaborate professionally with teachers, support staff, and administration to maintain consistency and continuity.
• Use effective problem-solving, flexibility, and communication in collaboration with peers.
• Build trust through respectful and professional relationships with parents.
• Share relevant parent communication with the cooperating Lead Teacher.
• Defer parent questions or concerns to the Lead Teacher.
• Seek administrative approval for professional learning opportunities aligned with the program.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Head of School or the Director of Lower and Middle School.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in education and/or a related field preferred