Assistant Guide

ASSISTANT GUIDE

Ad Astra is a private school that cultivates the unique genius in each child. Our school consists of four studios Spark (Grades K-2), Discovery (Grades 3-5), Adventure (Grades 6-8), and Launch Pad (Grades 9-12). This is not a traditional model. In all areas of school life, our learners are empowered to be in the driver’s seat of their learning. We combine elements of the Montessori method with Socratic guiding, hands-on experiential missions, rigorous curricula, and adaptive technology. We support each student on their personalized journey by fostering an engaging learning environment that feels more like an adventure than school, while still upholding highly rigorous academic standards. Our real-world missions culminate in a public exhibition of learning every 6-8 weeks to allow our students to demonstrate their brilliance in multiple ways.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the Learning Guide in ensuring high levels of each student’s academic achievement and growth
• Assist in building a positive studio culture of hard work, high standards, warmth, and joy
• Implement pedagogical best practices under the guidance of the Learning Guide, aligned to our mission, vision, and values
• Help provide structured academic interventions in response to real-time formative data
• Support the preparation and execution of lesson plans and rigorous, engaging projects for students
• Assist with communication to parents about student progress
• Participate as part of a broader team to support cross-studio programs and initiatives
• Help motivate and build relationships with students
• Aid in creating and facilitating enriching learning experiences for students (guest speakers, field trips, etc.)
• Supervise small groups or mixed-age learners during activities, breaks, and exhibitions
• Prepare learning materials, manage classroom resources, and maintain a safe, organized environment

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with or managing groups of children

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Prior experience as a teaching assistant, paraprofessional, or in childcare/education settings
• Familiarity with project-based learning, or learner-driven environments
• Comfortable with online learning tools and adaptive technology
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Enthusiastic, patient, and flexible team player
• Genuine passion for children and belief in their ability to learn and grow

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to work extended hours, through the summer
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends as needed
• Must be able to lift up to 25lbs unassisted