Grades 4/5 Associate Teacher

Cold Spring School is seeking a dynamic and collaborative Associate Teacher to join our mixed-age classroom team. This position is ideal for an early-career educator who is passionate about progressive teaching and wants to learn in a supportive, hands-on environment.

About Our School

Cold Spring School is a small, independent Preschool–Grade 6 program in the Fair Haven neighborhood of New Haven, CT. With deep roots in experiential and child-centered learning, we believe:

• Children are active participants in their own learning
• Learning is most powerful when it is meaningful, relevant, and connected to the real world
• Each child brings strengths, interests, and ideas that enrich the classroom community
• Strong relationships are the foundation of growth

Our mission is to help children become curious, self-reliant, and compassionate problem solvers prepared to engage thoughtfully in a diverse and changing world.

About the Role

The Associate Teacher will work as part of a classroom team that includes:

• One Head Teacher
• A responsive student support network including a counselor and learning specialist, administrators, and special area teachers

The Associate Teacher contributes fully to classroom instruction and community life while receiving mentorship, coaching, and opportunities to grow into greater leadership. This role includes lesson support and planning, small-group and whole-class teaching, student assessment, restorative classroom culture building, and active engagement with families.

What You’ll Gain

• Daily mentorship and collaboration with an experienced Head Teacher
• Hands-on responsibilities that prepare you for lead teaching roles
• Training in progressive education practices including child-centered instruction, integrated curriculum design, and restorative practices
• Opportunities to take initiative, lead projects, and shape student learning
• Experience working in a warm, diverse, and deeply engaged school community

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who: 

• Hold at least an Associate’s Degree, or are currently completing a Bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, or related field
• Communicate clearly and professionally with students, families, and colleagues
• Are curious, open to feedback, and eager to grow in their practice
• Demonstrate commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive teaching
• Bring joy, initiative, and a genuine love of working with children

Benefits

• Competitive salary and full benefits
• Ongoing professional development and pedagogical coaching
• Collaborative, mission-driven school culture
• Opportunities for advancement in future years

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit via email to the Interim Director, Carla MacMullen at [email protected]: 

• A resume
• A brief letter of interest
• Three references (may be requested later in the process)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.