Employment Opportunities
Assistant Teacher/Afternoon Lead — Waldorf Early Childhood Program
Ashland, Oregon
About the Position
Mountain Star is a small Waldorf-inspired early childhood program in Ashland, Oregon, seeking a warm, dependable Assistant Teacher/Afternoon Lead to join our classroom for the 2026–2027 school year. This role supports our morning program and helps extend the day for families who need care through mid-afternoon, all within the rhythm, warmth, and intention that define Waldorf early childhood education.
Schedule
Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
10-month position, following our school-year calendar (September–June)
Approximately 26 hours/week
Pay
$18–22/hour including school breaks and holidays, depending on experience and qualifications
Responsibilities
Support the lead teacher/director during the morning program (circle time, outdoor play, story, purposeful work)
Independently lead and supervise the extended-day block, including rest time and quiet afternoon activities, for children staying past 1:00 p.m.
Help maintain a calm, consistent rhythm throughout the day.
Assist with meals/snacks, transitions, and general classroom care.
Communicate warmly and professionally with families as needed.
Support the overall safety, cleanliness, and preparedness of the classroom space.
Requirements
Must meet Oregon's "Teacher Qualified" standard under the Child Care Licensing Division rules, which can be met through any one of the following:
At least 750 hours of qualifying teaching experience* in a Certified Child Care Center, or comparable group care program** in the appropriate age level, or
One year or 1,500 hoursof qualifying teaching experience in Registered Family or Certified Familychild care, or
Documentation of attaining at least step 6 in the Oregon Registry, or
A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or
A minimum of an Associate’s Degree from a college or university with a major in:
Early childhood education
Child development
Special education
Human development, or
Child and family studies
*Qualifying Teaching Experience means:
For infant/toddler and preschool age groups, gained with a group of the same age children in at least 3-hour blocks, within a 36-month period; Qualifying teaching experience must be documented. Time spent in a college practicum or practice teaching is considered qualifying teaching experience. The following does not constitute qualifying teaching experience: leader of a scout troop; Sunday school teacher; and coaching.
**Comparable group care program means a program which has the following elements:
(a) Individuals are supervised by knowledgeable professionals;
(b) Training of individuals is provided or required annually;
(c) Group size is similar to a certified child care facility;
(d) Curriculum is age appropriate; and
(e) The program is not providing uncertified drop-in care;
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