Associate Educator

La Jolla Country Day School is seeking a warm, collaborative, and student-centered Associate Educator, specifically interested in lower elementary grades, to join our Lower School team. This important role partners closely with lead teachers and grade-level teams to support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth through meaningful instruction, individualized support, and active participation in the life of the classroom and school community.

The ideal candidate is passionate about working with children, enjoys collaborating with colleagues and families, and brings flexibility, enthusiasm, and a growth mindset to their work. Associate Educators play a vital role in creating engaging learning environments, supporting differentiated instruction, and helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and character.

Why Join La Jolla Country Day School?

La Jolla Country Day School’s Lower School program places equal importance on academic excellence and character education, laying the foundation for students’ future academic success, personal growth, and global responsibility. Student voice, faculty collaboration, and strong parent partnerships are central to building a connected and caring community. Our distinct approach develops the scholar, artist, and athlete of character through a balanced, intentional program. Students learn in a warm, spirited, and nurturing environment where curiosity, risk-taking, and growth are encouraged, and they are supported in building confidence and independence.

We are a mission-driven educational community dedicated to equity and belonging. We value educators who bring curiosity, flexibility, emotional intelligence, and a growth mindset to their work. If you are inspired by supporting young learners, collaborating with talented colleagues, and contributing to a vibrant school culture, we would love to meet you.

What You'll Do

• Teaching & Student Support
  • Support the planning and implementation of curriculum and daily instruction in partnership with lead teachers.
  • Provide instruction and support in whole-group, small-group, and individual learning settings.
  • Lead intervention and enrichment lessons in reading, math, and other subject areas.
  • Teach lessons and facilitate classroom activities as needed.
  • Review student work and provide feedback under the direction of the lead teacher.
  • Support students’ academic, social, and emotional development through responsive and individualized instruction.
  • Help create learning experiences that meet the needs of students with a wide range of abilities, backgrounds, and learning profiles.
• Classroom Environment & Student Supervision
  • Partner with lead teachers to create a positive, inclusive, and engaging classroom culture.
  • Reinforce school expectations, character education, and the Torrey Traits.
  • Assist with the preparation, organization, and maintenance of classroom materials and resources.
  • Supervise students during arrival, dismissal, recess, lunch, and other assigned duties.
  • Support a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment where students feel known and valued.
• Family Communication & Collaboration
  • Maintain ongoing communication with lead teachers regarding classroom needs, student progress, and concerns.
  • Participate in communication with parents and guardians through conferences, reports, and classroom updates.
  • Collaborate with grade-level teams to create family communications and support classroom events.
  • Coordinate classroom volunteer opportunities and activities in partnership with colleagues and room parents.
  • Assist with organizing field trips, special events, and grade-level experiences.
• Professional Growth & School Engagement
  • Attend faculty meetings, professional development sessions, and required school functions.
  • Engage in ongoing learning aligned with educational best practices and school priorities.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, and a commitment to supporting the school's mission and values.
  • Contribute positively to the life of the Lower School and broader school community.

Who You Are

• Student-Centered & Caring: You enjoy working with children and are committed to supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth.
• Collaborative Team Member: You thrive in partnership with teachers, families, and colleagues and understand the value of shared responsibility in supporting students.
  
• Reflective & Growth-Oriented: You embrace feedback, demonstrate a growth mindset, and are eager to learn and develop as an educator.
  
• Strong Communicator: You communicate clearly, professionally, and thoughtfully with students, families, and colleagues.
  
• Adaptable & Resourceful: You are flexible, proactive, and able to respond effectively to the evolving needs of a dynamic school environment.
  
• Community Builder: You value diversity, foster belonging, and contribute positively to a culture of respect, inclusion, and collaboration.
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Prior teaching experience, educational support experience, or work with children required.
• Strong math, writing, spelling, grammar, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Proficiency with educational technology and digital tools; experience with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office preferred.
• Commitment to professional growth and continuous learning.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Full-time, on-campus position during the academic year.
• Active Lower School environment requiring regular movement throughout classrooms, playgrounds, and campus spaces.
• Responsibilities include both indoor and outdoor supervision and instruction.
• Occasional evening or weekend commitments for conferences, school events, and professional responsibilities may be required.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, lift up to 30 pounds occasionally, and actively engage with students throughout the school day.

Salary Range

$45,000 – $65,000 annualized. The salary offer to a successful candidate will depend on factors including experience, education, training, and relevant skills.

To be considered, please submit:

• Your current resume or CV
• A cover letter describing your interest in the position and experience working with children

We value authenticity in the application process and ask that candidates refrain from using AI tools to generate their application materials.