Upper School 5th Grade Assistant Teacher in Palo Alto, California at Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School

Start Date: August 2026

About the Position

The 5th Grade Assistant Teacher is a Full Time instructional partner in Hausner’s Upper School, supporting students as they make the important transition into the middle grades. Working closely with lead teachers, this role helps bring hands-on, student-centered learning to life while supporting students’ academic growth, executive functioning, collaboration, and sense of belonging.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with upper elementary and middle grade students, is excited to grow as an educator, and understands that 5th grade is a bridge year: students are ready for greater independence, but still need structure, warmth, consistency, and close adult guidance. At Hausner, the 5th Grade Assistant Teacher helps create a classroom culture where students are known, challenged, supported, and encouraged to think deeply, take responsibility, and engage joyfully in learning.

Core Responsibilities

Instructional Support & Learning Design

• Collaborate with lead teachers to implement interdisciplinary learning aligned with standards
• Support students in connecting classroom learning to real-world contexts
• Assist in launching lessons and activities that invite curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving
• Help students build academic confidence and increasing independence

Classroom Practice, Student Engagement & Differentiation

• Support active learning, including small-group facilitation, conferring, and guided practice
• Help students understand learning goals and expectations for quality work
• Encourage persistence through challenge and emphasize growth, revision, and reflection
• Support student choice and creativity within structured learning experiences
• Help ensure every student has a meaningful role in collaborative work
• Work with lead teachers to differentiate instruction and scaffold learning
• Support students with organization, transitions, focus, and executive functioning
• Help students navigate the social and academic expectations of Upper School life

Feedback, Reflection & Classroom Culture

• Support students in giving and receiving feedback from peers and adults
• Help facilitate reflection throughout the learning process
• Model a growth mindset and reflective practice with students and colleagues
• Help maintain a respectful, safe, inclusive, and joyful classroom environment
• Build positive relationships with students grounded in trust, consistency, and care
• Serve as a professional and positive presence for families and the broader school community

Professional Responsibilities

• Communicate clearly and professionally with colleagues, families, and administrators
• Attend and actively participate in faculty meetings and professional development
• Participate in school events, performances, and community programming
• Substitute for colleagues as needed
• Be willing to teach in person and through virtual platforms as needed

We Value

• Flexibility, initiative, and a collaborative mindset
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Openness to feedback and continuous learning
• A sense of warmth, humor, and joy in working with students
• The ability to balance structure, accountability, and care

Education & Experience

• Experience working with children in an educational setting
• Strong interpersonal skills and a passion for working with upper elementary and middle grade students
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education

Compensation

• $24-$29/hour, commensurate with experience
• Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(b) Retirement Plan, Long- and Short-Term Disability, Voluntary Life/Accident Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Commuter Benefits, and Flexible Spending Account options.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter and resume when you submit your application via Paylocity.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals of all backgrounds are respected and valued. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, or any other status protected by law.