Early Childhood and Kindergarten Associate Educator

Rio Grande School is an interdisciplinary school that serves students from three years old to grade six, with class sizes ranging from 14-21 students, a 6:1 student-educator ratio, and a total school population of 170. Located at the base of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains on five acres of high desert, surrounded by arroyos and hiking trails, Rio Grande School is perfectly situated for students to engage with both the natural wonders of the outdoors and the academic challenges of the classroom.  By nurturing this culture of thinking, our students are taught to to be both leaders and learners.

At Rio Grande School, the safety and well-being of our students are our highest priority. All employees undergo rigorous background checks, and our hiring practices are designed to protect students from harm, including abuse and exploitation.

We believe children learn best in a community that reflects the richness of the world. We actively seek candidates who will contribute to our school’s cultural and intellectual diversity.

The school is seeking candidates for the following position(s) beginning in August 2026:

Seeking Two Early Childhood and One Kindergarten Associate Educator (40 hours)

Position(s) Overview

The Associate Educator plays a vital role in supporting a joyful, developmentally appropriate classroom environment for young learners. Working in close partnership with the Lead Educator, the Associate helps implement an inquiry-driven program that nurtures curiosity, builds foundational skills, and supports social-emotional growth through the exploration of play and academics.

This role is ideal for an educator who is collaborative, responsive, and eager to grow within a supportive teaching partnership.

Qualified candidates will:

• Hold an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (or be working toward one)
• Have experience working with young children in a classroom or similar setting
• Demonstrate an understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practice
• Exhibit strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Show a commitment to professional growth and reflective practice
  
  

Preferred experience includes:

• Familiarity with play-based and inquiry-driven learning
• Knowledge of Responsive Classroom principles
• Experience working in Reggio Emilia or Montessori-inspired environments
• Experience supporting diverse learners

The Associate Educator will:

• Collaborate closely with the Lead Educator to implement a developmentally appropriate program, that supports students’ academic, social, and emotional growth
• Support whole-group, small-group, and individualized instruction to reinforce learning and meet diverse developmental needs
• Help maintain a safe, inclusive, and well-managed classroom by reinforcing routines, guiding positive behavior, and building strong relationships with students
• Assist in preparing and organizing classroom materials, learning environments, and daily activities that encourage exploration and purposeful play
• Observe and document student engagement and growth, sharing insights with the Lead Educator to support responsive instruction
• Provide attentive supervision during transitions, outdoor learning, and all parts of the school day to ensure student safety and consistency
• Contribute to a collaborative teaching partnership that fosters a joyful, inclusive, and responsive classroom community

Professional Responsibilities

• Partner with the Lead Educator in daily classroom operations and instructional support
• Participate in planning conversations and team collaboration
• Attend faculty meetings, school events, and professional development opportunities
• Engage in ongoing professional learning as required by the state of New Mexico (24 hours annually at a minimum for early childhood educators)
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the school’s mission

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is determined by experience and education. Salaries at Rio Grande School are competitive.

Full-time employees receive:

• Retirement plan with matching and non-matching contributions
• Subsidized medical insurance
• Life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Professional development support

Interested candidates should send a letter of interest, resume, and a list of three to five professional references to careers@riograndeschool.org

Rio Grande School does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, and national or ethnic origin in its hiring practices.