Extended Day Support Staff

Knoxville Montessori•Knoxville, TN

1d•$14 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

Knoxville Montessori School is seeking caring, dependable, and enthusiastic Extended Day Support Staff for the 2026–2027 school year. The role helps provide a safe, engaging, and supportive after-school environment for children from toddlers through high school. Staff help students transition from the regular school day into afternoon care, activities, outdoor play, and enrichment, and may work with different age groups throughout the week. They support children’s developmental needs, encourage independence, and maintain a respectful, welcoming environment. This part-time afternoon position is scheduled Monday through Friday, approximately 2:00 PM–6:00 PM. Additional hours may be available during summer programs, teacher in-service days, school break programs, and other scheduled school activities; specific hours and assignments may vary based on program needs. Compensation is $14.25–$18.25 per hour, based on education, experience, certifications, and qualifications through the school’s point-based compensation scale. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience working with children is preferred, and coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field is a plus. Candidates should be interested in Montessori education and child development, communicate and collaborate well, and be comfortable adapting to children across multiple age groups. Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification upon hire is required. The position involves active supervision indoors and outdoors, including bending, lifting up to 40 pounds, sitting on the floor, and participating in active play.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years of age.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification upon hire.
Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Dependable, punctual, patient, and able to take initiative.
Comfortable working with children across multiple age groups and adapting to changing program needs.
Able to actively supervise children indoors and outdoors, including bending, lifting up to 40 pounds, sitting on the floor, and participating in active play.
Monday–Friday availability for approximately 2:00 PM–6:00 PM during the school year.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children in a childcare, educational, recreational, or youth program setting.
Coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field.
Interest in Montessori education and child development.

Responsibilities

Provide attentive, active supervision of children during the Extended Day Program.
Maintain a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all students.
Build positive relationships with children through consistent, compassionate interactions.
Support children's social-emotional development through respectful guidance, conflict resolution, and positive behavior support.
Assist younger children with toileting, diapering, handwashing, snacks, and other daily care routines as needed.
Encourage older children to practice responsibility, independence, and respectful communication.
Support smooth transitions between classrooms, outdoor spaces, activities, and dismissal.
Follow school procedures for student safety, attendance, authorized pick-up, and emergencies.
Facilitate age-appropriate activities, including outdoor play, games, art, music, movement, reading, practical life activities, and creative exploration.
Encourage curiosity, cooperation, problem-solving, and positive peer relationships.
Provide opportunities for children to explore nature, develop physical skills, and engage in meaningful play.
Adapt activities and expectations to meet the developmental needs of toddlers, preschoolers, elementary students, and adolescents.
Support children's independence while providing appropriate guidance and encouragement.
Help create a calm, enjoyable afternoon environment balancing active play, relaxation, and student choice.
Prepare and maintain clean, organized, and welcoming classrooms and activity spaces.
Clean and sanitize materials, toys, and surfaces according to school procedures.
Assist with snack preparation, distribution, and cleanup.
Monitor and maintain outdoor play areas and equipment.
Help students care for shared materials and leave spaces ready for the next school day.
Complete daily closing responsibilities and assist with other program needs as assigned.
Work collaboratively with Extended Day colleagues, classroom teachers, and school administrators.
Communicate professionally and courteously with families during student pick-up.
Share relevant information about student needs, behavior, safety concerns, and incidents with appropriate staff members.
Follow school policies, Montessori principles, and expectations for respectful communication.
Maintain student confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.