Teaching Assistant Program
	The Teaching Assistant Program is designed to provide aspiring teachers with training and experience in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms under the guidance of an experienced mentor. Based on the theory that practical experience is the best way to learn to teach, Teaching Assistants are immersed in the daily life of the classroom through observation, supervised teaching, small group work, seminars and involvement in the greater school community. The Program also provides an opportunity for assistants to teach at GFA while earning a Master of Arts in Teaching from a nearby college or university. In 2004 we began our program with two assistants in the fifth grade. We are pleased to have 12 Teaching Assistants throughout our Lower School Division. Over two years, Teaching Assistants gain the experience necessary to move on to their own classrooms by assuming increasing professional responsibility. TA's receive a competitive stipend as well as additional funding for coursework. There are also opportunities to supplement income through coaching or extracurricular activities.

	During the assistantship, teachers work side by side under the supervision of a master teacher. The classroom is considered a practical “lab” experience in which TA's become immersed in every aspect of teaching at the elementary level. This may include planning and teaching academic lessons, working with individual students or small groups, and participating in regular faculty meetings and TAP seminars. At the same time, the TA program allows our students to receive more individual attention, and our faculty benefit from assistance with the daily life of the classroom. We believe this mutually beneficial relationship is essential for maintaining an individualized and challenging classroom environment as well as an innovative setting in which teachers continually grow and seek advancement. Who should apply? In keeping with our commitment to diversity, GFA welcomes applications without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, religion, sex or national origin. The Teaching Assistant Program is for qualified college graduates with a liberal arts background who can make a one-year commitment. Eligible candidates are expected to have earned a bachelor's degree, have a strong interest in working with young children, and have a desire to become an integral part of a school community. Please send all inquiries and resumes to: Connie Ennis, Head of Lower School cennis@gfacademy.org Teaching Assistant Program Greens Farms Academy 35 Beachside Avenue P.O. Box 998 Greens Farms, CT 06838-0998