FLSA Status: Temporary, Non-Exempt

Hourly Rate: $20.00/hour

Position Reports To: Lead Teacher and Co-Heads of School

Work Location: Vancouver, WA (RootWise Academy Campus)

Organizational Overview

RootWise Academy is a leading educational program nestled on a beautiful five-acre property in Vancouver, WA. Our campus is more than just classrooms — students explore gardens, care for chickens, and play in outdoor spaces that include a zipline, rock wall, and nature trails. We’re dedicated to creating a vibrant, supportive, and student-centered learning environment where curiosity is celebrated and every child’s strengths and interests are honored. At RootWise, learning extends far beyond textbooks: our holistic approach helps students grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally, fostering resilience, creativity, and a deep sense of community. Passionate educators, hands-on experiences, and a commitment to equity make RootWise Academy a place where students thrive as confident, capable learners and compassionate citizens.

Position Summary

The Teacher Assistant (TA) at RootWise Academy is more than a traditional support role. Our TAs are passionate educators with a strong background in child development or education, committed to making a meaningful impact on student success. Working closely with lead teachers, TAs take initiative in the classroom—actively identifying opportunities to support student learning, adapting to individual needs, and serving as a valuable resource for both students and teachers. They provide individualized or small-group instruction, foster engagement and curiosity, and help cultivate a positive, inclusive classroom culture. RootWise TAs are collaborative partners, contributing ideas and expertise to strengthen collective efficacy and ensure that every child thrives.

Please note: This is a temporary position for the 2026-2027 school year.

Essential Functions

Under teacher and administrator supervision, provide general and targeted instructional support to students, implement lesson plans, and assist with assessments
Support student learning through individual and small-group assistance in core subjects, especially literacy and math
Supervise students during lunch and recess as needed, ensuring safety and positive social interactions
Provide behavioral support using methods such as redirecting, positive reinforcement, and collaborative conversations
Help maintain a positive, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment, employing a variety of teaching and behavioral support strategies
Consistently and fairly uphold behavioral expectations
Collaborate with staff to understand student skill levels, characteristics, strengths, disabilities, and learning differences
Participate in property-based activities such as gardening, animal care, and forest exploration with students
Communicate positively and professionally with students, families, and staff
Prepare materials, set up activities, and assist with daily classroom routines
Maintain confidentiality and respond sensitively to student needs and situations

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

2 years of college or equivalent education preferred
Experience working with children in a school setting
Strong elementary academic skills, especially in literacy and math
Ideal candidates will have experience teaching music, or at minimum, a solid understanding of music theory and practical knowledge of playing instruments, and can teach a music class for students
Ability to work well with others and contribute to a positive, solution-focused, and collaborative work environment
Intermediate computer skills, preferably with Google Suite
Advanced organizational and communication skills, verbal and written
Experience working with diverse populations of students, staff, and/or community members
Ability to identify sensitive situations and adjust response accordingly
Commitment to inclusivity, culturally responsive practices, and supporting a diverse community
Bilingual and multicultural skills preferred

Physical Requirements

Sit, stand, and walk throughout the day
Use hands for grasping, pushing & pulling, fine manipulation
Bend, squat, and climb stairs frequently
Occasionally lift items up to 50 pounds
Participate in hands-on, outdoor learning activities in various weather conditions

Working Conditions

This position is primarily based on-site at RootWise Academy’s five-acre campus in Vancouver, WA. The role involves both indoor classroom work and regular outdoor activities. The position is part-time, with a schedule of 10–15 hours per week. Exact days and times will be determined based on the needs of the school and the candidate’s availability. Student hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, following the school calendar (staff inservice begins August 24, 2026; students’ first day is September 1, 2026).

Equal Opportunity Employer

At RootWise Academy, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive workplace where all team members feel valued and empowered to succeed. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, performance, and organizational needs.

We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to provide the highest quality educational experience and enhance the school community for both our students and our staff. We are dedicated to creating a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability during the application process, please contact a member of the RootWise Academy Board of Directors.

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site