K-3 Chess Assistant

Salary Range

$62,500 - $66,500. Placement in the range is commensurate with experience.

Exemption Status: Exempt

The Dalton School, a progressive K-12 gender-inclusive school in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, is consistently recognized as one of the preeminent independent day schools in the nation. Known for its child-centered approach and an exceptional, inspiring faculty, Dalton enrolls over 1,300 students with approximately 350 faculty and staff. Guided by the Dalton Plan, the foundation of a Dalton education, our faculty meets each student’s evolving needs, interests, and abilities. Dalton challenges each student to develop intellectual independence, creativity, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility toward others both within the School and in the broader community.

We are in search of a dynamic, innovative, and dedicated full-time Chess Assistant to join our esteemed Chess Program for the upcoming 2026-27 school year. This position reports to and works with the Chess Program Director, contributing to an inclusive chess environment. We are looking for a candidate who possesses creative problem-solving skills, a sense of humor, and strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with colleagues and students alike. This is a full-time, 10-month position (September – June).

Responsibilities

• Assist the chess teacher in implementing engaging lessons based on the Dalton chess curriculum for students in Grades K-2.
• Take the lead in teaching chess classes when the head teacher is away.
• Ensure that students develop good study habits and learn to be effective team members.
• Work closely with individual and small groups of students with advanced chess knowledge, conducting three chess labs per week for selected/interested students in grades K-3.
• Facilitate early morning chess clubs five times per week (Hours: 7:30 AM – 8:10 AM).
• Provide valuable support to the chess teacher in writing student narrative reports.
• Prepare student observations for the reports, including narrative descriptions of students' achievements and areas for growth.
• Assist in managing and maintaining the care of chess equipment.
• Engage respectfully with children and their families, demonstrating sensitivity to various cultures, values, configurations, and beliefs.
• Other duties as assigned by the Chess Program Director.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities