Job description

Overview

The Middle Way Schoolis an independent progressive elementary school founded in 2018 in order to research and develop a model of modern education based on Buddhist wisdom traditions. Our teacher-researchers have a deep understanding of childhood development and are deeply engaged in this development process. We are carefully building our faculty to accommodate healthy enrollment growth. In the 2023-2024 school year, MWS will have approximately 100 students in grades nursery to 6. We are actively seeking an assistant teacher who will work closely with the lead teacher to support the combined 5th/6th grade class.

MWS is located on five acres of forested land. It is an uplifted, dynamic, environment to work with ample professional support. We seek seasoned teachers who know how to meet conventional outcomes in unconventional ways and who have the skillful means to differentiate in ways that help meet students academically and socially. Teachers must have a deep interest in the Middle Way mission and vision and an openness to manifest it through presence and pedagogy. Being a practicing Buddhist is not necessary, however, an understanding of Buddhist principles and terminology is appreciated. We ask that all staff develop a personal contemplative practice of some kind and participate in secular Buddhist studies.

Middle Way School recognizes that we have the responsibility to actively change the power differences that perpetuate biases against historically underrepresented groups. Our inclusion efforts are a dynamic process. We are most interested in finding the best person for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet every one of the qualifications described.

Responsibilities

• Assisting and facilitating activities with lead teacher
• Supporting teachers in preparing and organizing learning materials
• Caretaking the school environment, including cleaning and preparation, as well as supporting children to take care of the school environment
• Supporting students’ development in all areas including dharma, social/emotional, embodiment/physical, math and language arts
• Supporting students’ social interactions and learning throughout the day to create a culture of harmony, reverence and respect
• Co-developing and participating in field trips
• Planning and participating in seasonal celebrations and events
• Supporting recess periods each day in collaboration with other teachers
• Exploring and maintaining a contemplative practice and occasional dharma study
• Pursuing ongoing professional development

Core Competencies

• Knowledge of current best practices in elementary education and awareness/mindfulness practices.
• Skillful means and strong instincts with respect to the social-emotional needs of 5th and 6th graders.
• Background in progressive education and constructivist theory and ability to put it into practice.
• A passion for teaching about social movements and change makers, especially those from traditionally underrepresented groups.
• Knowledge, understanding, and use of active learning strategies to support a range of learners
• Ability to creatively integrate and adapt curriculum to engage learners
• A creative and rigorous approach to information gathering and analysis, ability to understand broad ideas and synthesize
• Clear communication – excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team – especially when it is necessary to facilitate change, overcome an impasse, face an issue, or ensure that decisions are made.

Qualities

• A passion for education and carrying out the vision and mission of Middle Way
• A love and understanding of children and early childhood development
• An interest in personal and professional growth
• Openness to the teachings of the Buddhadharma
• Flexible, open minded, adaptable, patient with change
• Able to work independently and in teams
• Practical and resourceful
• Able to see the merits of perspectives other than his/her own; openness to different and new ways of doing things
• Reliable and respectful of deadlines
• Humor!

Required Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Preferably 2-3 years of experience in grade level
• Strong classroom management skills
• Responsive Classroom experience appreciated

Physical Capabilities

• A high level of stamina
• Ability to lift 25-30 lbs.
• Ability to move, see, hear, and speak with children to ensure children’s health and safety.

Terms

• On-site at Middle Way School in Saugerties, NY
• Schedule is 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM for the entirety of the 2023-2024 academic year
• All school breaks paid
• New York State background check

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter explaining why you are interested in a position at Middle Way along with a resume to careers@middlewayschool.org.

We hire and enroll without discriminating against any identifying factor which may include race, age, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic background. We will make accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities to the fullest extent possible. As an institution and as individuals we recognize that we have the responsibility to actively change the power differences that perpetuate biases against historically underrepresented groups. Our inclusion efforts are a dynamic process. We welcome your experience and invite your input on how our school community can continue to evolve.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: From $28,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

COVID-19 considerations:
MWS employees are required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a medical exemption approved by the MWS Board of Trustees.

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Saugerties, NY 12477: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person

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