Assistant Classroom Teacher (2026-2027)

Position Overview The Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA) seeks an assistant elementary teacher who believes learning should be engaging, meaningful, and joyful. This teacher will collaborate with a certified teacher or team of certified teachers to support students academically and behaviorally. The ideal candidate is committed to helping every child thrive academically and socially and believes that strong relationships, curiosity, and high expectations are essential to student success. About the Academy for Integrated Arts The Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA) is an innovative public charter school in Kansas City where the arts are intentionally integrated into the core curriculum as a meaningful part of daily learning. At AFIA, the arts serve as a catalyst for curiosity, creativity, academic achievement, and student confidence. Instruction is grounded in constructivist philosophy and developmentally appropriate practice. Students learn through inquiry, project-based experiences, and interdisciplinary learning that promotes deep thinking and authentic engagement. AFIA is a collaborative learning community where teachers are reflective practitioners, leaders, and active participants in ongoing professional learning. Learn more by watching this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eUzUxI-kbQ) or visit our website at www.afiakc.org Why Educators Choose AFIA Educators at AFIA value:A collaborative and supportive staff cultureStrong instructional coaching and job-embedded professional developmentOpportunities for teacher leadership and innovationA school community that values creativity, inquiry, and student voiceThe opportunity to integrate the arts into meaningful academic learning Assistant Teachers at AFIA:Demonstrate a commitment to serving students who have been historically underservedBelieve in the power of student-centered learning to transform students' livesSupport inclusive classrooms where all students and families feel a strong sense of belongingValue families as essential partners in student successCollaborate effectively with colleagues and engage in continuous professional growth Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesSupport instructionDeliver small-group and one-on-one lessons under the lead teacher's directionReinforce whole-group instruction and reteach concepts as neededPrepare and adapt instructional materials and visual aidsClassroom managementHelp maintain a positive, orderly learning environmentImplement behavior management plans and classroom routinesSupervise transitions, recess, lunch, dismissalStudent monitoring & assessmentObserve and record student progress and behaviorShare observations with the lead teacher to inform instructionDifferentiation & special needs supportProvide accommodations and modifications for IEP/504 goalsSupport English learners with scaffolded instruction and language modelingAssist therapists/specialists as directedCommunication & family contactCommunicate respectfully with students, families, and colleaguesRelay routine information about student performance and behavior to the lead teacherParticipate in family conferences when requestedSupervision & safetyEnsure student safety during classroom time, recess, field trips, and emergenciesFollow school safety and reporting proceduresProfessional responsibilitiesAttend staff meetings, planning time, and required trainingsMaintain confidentiality and professional conductCollaborate with the lead teacher to plan lessons and manage workload QualificationsMust be at least 18 years of age and have a GED or high school diploma.Experience working with Pre-k, school age and/or middle school youth; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Preferred Qualifications 60 College Hours or Passed the Para Pro AssessmentThe ideal applicant will have experience working with children in a school setting. Salary and BenefitsMedical benefitsKansas City Public School Retirement System (KCPSRS) participationOngoing, job-embedded professional development and coachingOpportunities for collaboration and teacher leadershipProfessional learning in arts integration and interdisciplinary teaching Start Date: August 1, 2026 Job is open until filled. Compensation: Commensurate with experience Application Process Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. To apply, submit:ResumeBrief cover letterThree professional references Questions about the position may be directed to: Tricia DeGraff, Executive Director (tricia.degraff@afiakc.org)