Montessori Preschool Teaching Assistant

CENTRAL MONTESSORI SCHOOLS; Encinitas (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Central Montessori Schools in Encinitas, CA is seeking a passionate Preschool Teaching Assistant to support lead teachers in a Montessori setting. You will help guide and supervise preschoolers, prepare materials, and maintain a calm, organized classroom that encourages curiosity and independence.

Ideal candidates have experience with preschoolers, familiarity with Montessori methods, and CA licensing readiness.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Patience, compassion and enthusiastic demeanor with young learners.
• Willingness to pursue ECE coursework and familiarity with Montessori methods.

Responsibilities

• Support lead Montessori teachers in delivering engaging, hands-on learning experiences for preschool-aged children.
• Guide and supervise children during classroom activities, outdoor play, and transitions.
• Assist in preparing and maintaining Montessori materials and a well-organized classroom environment.
• Observe and document individual child progress and development.
• Foster a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom culture aligned with Montessori philosophy.
• Communicate with parents, staff, and administrators.
• Assist with daily routines including snack time, rest time, and personal care as needed.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Patience and compassion

Education

ECE units or degree preferred

Tools

Montessori materials

Job description

Benefits:

401(k)

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

About the Role:

Central Montessori Schools in Encinitas, CA is looking for a passionate and nurturing Preschool Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team! This is a wonderful opportunity to support young learners in a child-centered Montessori environment where curiosity and independence are celebrated every day. If you love working with children and believe in the power of early childhood education, we'd love to meet you!

Responsibilities:

Support lead Montessori teachers in delivering engaging, hands-on learning experiences for preschool-aged children

Guide and supervise children during classroom activities, outdoor play, and transitions

Assist in preparing and maintaining Montessori materials and a well-organized classroom environment

Observe and document individual child progress and development

Foster a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom culture aligned with Montessori philosophy

Communicate warmly and professionally with parents, staff, and administrators

Assist with daily routines including snack time, rest time, and personal care as needed

Requirements:

Previous experience working with preschool or early childhood-aged children preferred

Familiarity with Montessori philosophy and methods is a plus

Early Childhood Education (ECE) units or degree preferred; willingness to pursue coursework a plus

Patient, compassionate, and enthusiastic demeanor with young learners

Strong communication and teamwork skills

Must meet California state childcare licensing requirements, including fingerprint clearance and health screening

CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

About Us:

Central Montessori Schools has been a trusted cornerstone of early childhood education in the Encinitas community, providing a rich, child-led learning experience that families love. Our Montessori-trained educators are passionate about nurturing the whole child — intellectually, socially, and emotionally. We pride ourselves on a collaborative, supportive staff culture where educators are valued, respected, and inspired to grow alongside their students.