Preschool Assistant Teacher 2025-2026

Santa Cruz Waldorf School is seeking a part-time (75% [30 hrs / week for 38 weeks]) Preschool Assistant Teacher who will join our dedicated faculty at the beginning of the 2025-26 school year.

About

It's a truly exciting time at the Santa Cruz Waldorf School (SCWS). With a thriving enrollment, a team of experienced and collaborative colleagues, a deeply supportive community, and a dedicated Board of Trustees, our school is brimming with possibility. As we look forward to the 2025 / 2026 academic year, we remain committed to fostering diversity, growth, and meaningful campus renewal. Guided by a thoughtful strategic plan, we feel inspired and energized by the opportunities ahead to strengthen our foundation and nurture the vibrant spirit of our school for years to come.

Inclusivity and diversity are core values at SCWS, and we celebrate them by encouraging diverse candidates and those under-represented in our community to apply. We are committed to the active practice of diversity, equity, and inclusivity principles in our curriculum, enrollment, community, and festival life. We are actively anti-racist in our approach to pedagogy, policies, decisions, and structure. We believe that diversity enriches our learning and work environments by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand the world, identify challenges, and discover and deliver solutions – thereby allowing our entire community to thrive. SCWS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in admissions, hiring, or employment practices on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, or other statuses protected by law.

About our school and community :

Founded in 1976, SCWS is nestled on a beautiful, forested campus in the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a nurturing and inspiring environment for 160 students from preschool through 8th grade. SCWS honors students' individual development and capacities and nurtures a love of learning through our rich, AWSNA-accredited curriculum, inspired by Rudolf Steiner. Our community, led by creative Waldorf-trained teachers, encourages the protection of childhood and respect for all life.

An hour and a half south of San Francisco by car, Santa Cruz is located at the northern end of Monterey Bay. It is known for its moderate climate, natural environment, coastline, redwood forests, and the presence of the University of California. Approximately 65,000 residents enjoy an active, progressive, and engaged community that maintains a small-town style.

Assistant Teachers help the Lead Teacher to oversee students and assist in the facilitation of daily programs. This position's exact duties can vary widely depending on the particular circumstances of the classroom they're in, but specific duties and responsibilities include :

• Assists the lead teacher in the support and supervision of students.
• Assists the Lead Teacher in coordinating student drop-off and pick-up.
• General maintenance and cleaning of the classroom during job hours.
• Preparation of classroom supplies and equipment.
• Displays discretion and confidentiality in communication.
• Attends parent conferences as requested by the Lead Teacher.
• Meets regularly with the Lead Teacher for planning and review of work.
• Maintain contact with families and caregivers as guided by the Lead Teacher.
• This position is also required to attend weekly EC meetings, as well as at least an hour of weekly faculty meetings

Qualifications

Our ideal candidate will have completed Waldorf or Lifeways Early Childhood training and have experience as an Assistant or co-teacher in a Kindergarten setting.

This is a part-time position with full benefits, including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending plans, and retirement plans.

The full annual salary range is $ 50K—$54K.

To Apply

A comprehensive position description and information regarding compensation for this part-time salaried position are available upon request. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and three references to

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