Academic Support Teacher

The Community School for Place-based Education seeks a flexible, experienced and collaborative Academic Support Teacher to work in small groups and one-on-one with students to support their academic growth in our three muti-aged classes, grades 1-8,  in partnership with class teachers and our local school district.  This is a full time position, beginning August 2026. 

The ideal candidate:

  • Has at least 3 years of experience working in special education contexts, both in academic intervention and gifted and talented or like programs;

  • Is comfortable working one-on-one and in small groups, in pull-out and in-class  contexts;

  • Is well-rounded and comfortable teaching all elementary grade subject areas;

  • Meets the needs of students in a wide range of academic areas;

  • Implements accommodations and intervention outlined by IEPs, 504 plans and by class teachers;

  • Helps to set short and long-term learning goals with students, in partnership with collaborating colleagues;

  • Documents learning progress through best-practice tools;

  • Is self directed, flexible and comfortable taking initiative, while also appreciates working collaboratively with colleagues and students alike; 

  • Values connection and trust with students as a meaningful part of the teaching and learning process;

  • Creatively engages multiple ways of knowing into intervention and curriculum implementation;

  • Possesses clear, confident and engaging communication skills, with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

A State of Maine Teaching certificate or equivalent is preferred. 

Located along a tidal creek and 7o acre preserve in Somesville, Maine, the school occupies a historic farmhouse, barn, yurts, and a series of outdoor classroom spaces.   We are a state-certified independent school, incorporating a variety of teaching methods in our Place-Based model, cultivating a sense of self, place and community.  

Connection to one another and to the place we live is important to us and our learning.  We are a highly collaborative teaching community that practices mindful listening and makes decisions together. Both teachers and children are caretakers of the schoolhouse and property. Additionally, we extend our stewardship to the surrounding landscapes and communities of Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park and local land trust preserves.

Our academics are rooted in what is developmentally appropriate for each child. Small class sizes allow for a balance of collaborative and collective learning as well as individualized attention. Our “Expedition” unit is interdisciplinary, with a focus in the sciences and social studies. The Math Workshop, and Language Arts Workshop use active and engaging learning to explore math, reading, and writing. A weekly Outing and progression of outdoor leadership trips affords off-campus study and continued collaboration and stewardship with local people and places. Weekly specialty classes in Music, Handwork, and Ecology complement the curriculum and are taught by skilled educators within the local community. 

The Community School (TCS) is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals and employment decisions at TCS will be based on factors such as merit, qualifications and abilities.  TCS does not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, with benefits to include health and dental insurance.

If you are interested in joining our collaborative and dynamic teaching team, please send a cover letter and resume to our school office at: office@thecommunityschool.me, with “Academic Support Teacher” in the subject line. The position will remain open until filled.