Lower School Innovation & Technology Lab Associate Teacher
About The Position
Open Window School (K-8, coed, 360 student day school) seeks candidates for its Lower School Associate Teacher position. Open Window is dedicated to serving gifted students. With a strong commitment to social-emotional learning, these exceptional young people are nurtured and inspired in both their academic and personal growth. Open Window students have true enthusiasm for deep and accelerated learning, with an emphasis on project-based initiatives with real world application. Innovation and risk taking are encouraged within a supportive environment. Open Window School graduates are empathetic, academically well-prepared, innovative problem solvers, purposeful global citizens with a commitment to equity and inclusion. This is a place where it is cool to be smart, and the expectation is that our students will graduate and make a difference in high school and beyond. Located on a beautiful campus in Bellevue, Washington, 15 miles from the center of downtown Seattle, Open Window benefits from its unique location; it is surrounded by woods right in the middle of one of the fastest growing metro populations in the country. The school enjoys a robust and growing pipeline of students, which will continue to drive demand for the type of rich educational experience guided by Open Window’s mission and values. Open Window School seeks a Lower School Innovation & Technology Lab Associate Teacher who will play an integral role in supporting student learning within a collaborative, hands-on instructional environment. Working closely with the Lead Innovation & Technology Teacher and classroom faculty, this educator helps facilitate engaging experiences that promote creativity, problem-solving, and thoughtful design. This role is well suited to an educator who values collaboration, brings strong organizational awareness to dynamic learning spaces, and enjoys supporting students as they explore new tools and ideas. The Associate Teacher is a respected member of the teaching team whose work contributes meaningfully to both the lab program and the broader academic experience of students. The Innovation & Technology Lab supports both maker-centered learning and foundational computer science instruction. Students engage in experiences that develop computational thinking, design skills, and creative problem-solving, aligned with established computer science standards. The lab is equipped with a range of tools that support prototyping, fabrication, and coding, including 3D printers, laser cutting technology, and age-appropriate programming platforms.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in education, a STEAM-related field, or a related discipline required.
- Experience working with elementary-aged students in a classroom, camp, maker space, or similar learning environment.
- Familiarity with tools such as 3D printers, laser cutting technology, and age-appropriate coding platforms.
- Understanding of child development and the ability to support student learning in hands-on, inquiry-based settings.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a teaching team, contributing thoughtfully to instructional planning and classroom implementation.
- Demonstrated strong organizational awareness and attention to safety in dynamic, tool-based environments.
- Interest in working with intellectually gifted students and supporting advanced learners in creative, problem-solving environments.
- Clear and professional communication skills when working with students, colleagues, and families.
- Alignment with Open Window School’s mission and commitment to fostering a community that is kind, inclusive, respectful, and responsible.
- Ability to actively engage in a hands-on lab environment, including standing for extended periods, assisting students with materials and tools, and supervising indoor and outdoor activities in varied conditions.
- Consistent attendance and reliability, contributing to a stable and well-prepared learning environment.
Nice To Haves
- Coursework or certification in education, STEAM education, or related fields is a plus.
- Comfort supporting foundational computer science instruction and maker-centered learning aligned with established standards, particularly for advanced learners.
Responsibilities
- Partner with the Lead Innovation & Technology Teacher to support the design and facilitation of engaging, student-centered learning experiences in technology, engineering, and design.
- Work directly with students to reinforce skills, support problem-solving, and encourage curiosity, creativity, and responsible risk-taking.
- Provide instructional support during lab classes and integrated projects, helping to differentiate experiences to meet varied readiness levels.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers to support interdisciplinary learning and the meaningful integration of innovation and design.
- Help cultivate a safe, inclusive, and intellectually vibrant learning environment where all students feel confident exploring new tools and ideas.
- Support the organization and readiness of the Innovation & Technology Lab, ensuring materials and learning spaces are prepared for effective instruction.
- Maintain a strong awareness of safety procedures and actively support students in using tools, materials, and equipment responsibly.
- Observe student engagement and progress, sharing relevant insights with the Lead Teacher to support instructional planning.
- Demonstrate initiative and adaptability in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment.
- Participate actively in faculty collaboration, meetings, and school events.
- Provide continuity of the learning environment during Lead Teacher absences.
- Perform supervisory duties as needed while supporting student well-being across settings.
- Uphold high standards of professionalism, reliability, discretion, and confidentiality.
Benefits
- Paid Sick leave
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (paid 100% for employee-only coverage)
- Employer paid Health Reimbursement Account
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- 403(b) Retirement Account, Pre-tax & Roth Options (eligible for employer contribution and employer match after one year of service).
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Professional development and training opportunities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
