Welcome, Applicant!

Thank you for your interest in a CalWest opening.
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Applying for Position:
Lower School Associate Teacher

This opening calls for specific teaching qualifications set by the school.

CalWest's client school in the Greater Los Angeles area seeks a Lower School Associate Teacher for the 2025-2026 school year.

Qualifications

  • Commitment to ongoing learning about implementing Gifted Education best practices 
  • Commitment to creating a sense of belonging by upholding our Statement of Inclusivity 
  • BA/BS Degree required; progress towards an advanced degree in Elementary, Early Education, or teaching credential preferred 
  • 1-3 years of teaching experience in a classroom 
  • Experience working with highly gifted children preferred 
  • Previous experience with Lower School students preferred 
  • Strong writing and communication skills 
  • Strong proficiency with technology and an ability to use technology effectively in the classroom including Google Suite 
  • Strong work ethic with a growth mindset, and able to learn new skills quickly 
  • First Aid and CPR training required (training provided if not currently certified) 
  • Valid CA driver license and clear criminal background investigation 

Responsibilities

  • Cultivate a respectful, safe, creative, and engaging learning environment 
  • Demonstrate a strong understanding of the academic, social, and emotional development of highly gifted children 
  • Report student observations to our wellness team and commit to a student-centered approach 
  • Demonstrate effective use of classroom materials and technology to enhance learning and student success 
  • Lead math groups by creating and implementing lesson plans, assigning and evaluating homework, assessing student progress, and partnering with parents and teachers to ensure progress and achievement 
  • Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to co-plan and eventually lead subjects such as Reading Workshop, Writing Workshop, Service Learning, and/or Thematic Studies (social studies) 
  • Attend grade-level team meetings and contribute to the overall development of the curriculum 
  • Evaluate student work, using both formative and summative assessments, benchmarks, and other assessments to guide instructional planning and promote student success
  • Collaborate and work effectively with Head of Lower School, Lead Teacher, and other faculty and administrative personnel 
  • Relate well to students, parents, and staff 
  • Provide coverage for the Lead Teacher in their absence 
  • Actively participate and contribute to our Associate Professional Learning Community and professional development 
  • Possess a strong understanding of independent school methods and the ability to effectively integrate NAIS and CAIS best practices 
  • Demonstrate culturally competent skills in educational program design and delivery 
  • Demonstrate effective and respectful management of classroom culture using social-emotional learning skills and strategies, such as Responsive Classroom 
  • Exhibit enthusiasm and commitment to our mission, Statement of Inclusivity, and Core Values 
  • Demonstrate excellent organizational, time management, and follow-through skills 
  • Other duties as assigned 

CalWest and our partner schools are unable to respond to all applicants.

Candidates may be submitted to multiple positions during their time with CalWest. Also, candidates may not be chosen to move forward in the search they initially expressed interest in pursuing.

Our client schools make the final decisions.

Deciding to Apply

At minimum, applicants should have:

About CalWest Educators Placement

CalWest is the “go-to” firm for educators seeking new positions at independent schools on the West Coast. We focus on increased communication and understanding with our candidates, providing reliable and candid advice about the schools they are considering.

If you have questions about the qualifications to apply, please contact us at mysearch@calwesteducators.com.