About

Employment Opportunities

JOIN A COMMUNITY OF OUTSTANDING EDUCATORS

Allendale Columbia School (AC) is a diverse, co-educational, independent school serving students 18 months through 12 that prepares students for the world they will inherit.

Thank you for your interest in employment at Allendale Columbia School. We believe that the strength of our school lies in the quality and dedication of our faculty and staff. We’re committed to attracting and retaining exceptional educators and professionals who are passionate about working with young people and contributing to a dynamic school community.
 
Ideal candidates bring a strong background in their field, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative spirit. Allendale Columbia School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Administrative Positions

List of 1 items.

Faculty Positions

List of 1 items.

Staff Positions

List of 7 items.

  • Little School Teaching Assistant  

    The Allendale Columbia Little School Teacher Assistant is responsible for providing an enriched early childhood education program by assisting the Lead Teacher in all aspects regarding the Reggio-Emilia approach. Allendale Columbia and the Reggio-Emilia approach believe that a child’s development occurs in the least restrictive environment, meaning that children learn best when they are able to learn, discover, explore, and experiment in and around the world that surrounds them. Within the Little School we employ a combination of child-led/guided learning and developmentally appropriate learning curriculum. Our main goal is to create a safe and happy place for the young minds of these children to grow.

    ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES:
    • Key responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with curriculum and activity implementation.
    • Supervising and monitoring children's safety, assisting with routines like feeding and hygiene, and helping maintain a clean classroom.
    • Provide individual or small group support, encourage positive behavior, and communicate with parents.
    • Additional duties may involve record-keeping, preparing for lessons, assisting with activities, and attending staff meetings and training.
    • Foster a stimulating, inviting, and nurturing environment for children and trusting relationships that encourage parents and educational partners.
    • Model appropriate and respectful behavior to children and fellow staff.
    • Support each child’s social and emotional development through positive child-guided interactions and approaches.
    • Partner with parents to build an open communicative relationship to promote positive and effective communication about their child’s overall development
    • Comply with all rules, regulations, procedures, and protocols of Allendale Columbia Little School, state and national regulatory agencies pertaining to the health and safety of the children.
    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
    • High school diploma or equivalent qualification.
    • Experience as a teaching assistant or similar role is a plus.
    • Solid understanding of classroom activities and teaching best practices.
    • Must have a compassionate and positive attitude.
    • Outstanding interpersonal and presentation abilities.
    • Demonstrates an understanding of the Reggio Emilia philosophy
    • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
    • Demonstrates the ability to be flexible and adaptable to changes
    • Has an understanding or knowledge of the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations
    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
    • Safely lift a child or children with a total weight of 50 pounds.
    • Conduct activities involving substantial standing, walking, and moderate sitting, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, twisting, and reaching on a frequent basis.
    • Work with hands above shoulder height with a weight up to 20 pounds.
    • Work with arms extended at shoulder height with a weight up to 20 pounds.
    • Must be able to stoop, bend, and kneel on the floor without assistance
    • Must be able to push, pull, playground equipment, art supplies, manipulate office equipment, etc.
    • Participate in routine conversation in person or via telephone and distinguish telephone, radio/pager signals, alarms, and other auditory tones
    HOURS MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9:30 am - 5 pm
     
    Pay range for this position: $16-$17/hour

    Please send resume to jobs@allendalecolumbia.org
     
  • HAC Head Varsity Boys Tennis Coach

    HAC, the joint interscholastic athletic program of The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School, is currently accepting applications for a Head Varsity Boys Tennis Coach for the 2027 spring sports season.

    The varsity spring sports season is scheduled to begin Monday, March 15, 2027. The Head Varsity Boys Tennis Coach is a crucial leader responsible for the overall direction, development, and management of the HAC boys tennis program, promoting the core values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth for all student-athletes.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Program Leadership: Serve as the head of the HAC boys tennis program, providing strategic vision, leadership, and support to the entire program, including the Modified and Junior Varsity (if applicable) coaches and staff.
    • Instruction and Development: Plan, organize, and execute effective, high-quality practices and match strategies, proficiently teaching and coaching the fundamentals and advanced techniques and strategies of tennis.
    • Student-Athlete Management and Well-Being: Manage, supervise, and ensure the safety and well-being of all student-athletes (typically 9+) during practices, travel, matches, tournaments, and team activities.
    • Culture and Values: Act as a positive role model and mentor, promoting an appreciation of teamwork, sportsmanship, commitment, and physical activity.
    • Feedback, Motivation, and Teaching: Motivate, encourage, and provide constructive, positive, and impactful feedback to participating student-athletes to improve individual performance and the overall tennis experience.
    • Administrative Duties: Lead and organize essential administrative tasks, including uniform and equipment distribution, inventory, end-of-season collection, maintaining accurate attendance/match records, and promptly completing required injury reports.
    • Offseason Development: Lead the planning and execution of offseason program-building initiatives and workouts.
    • Professional Conduct: Maintain a professional, positive, and composed attitude and demeanor in all situations, particularly those involving high-pressure contests or difficult circumstances.
    • Compliance and Reporting: Attend all required league, Section V, and NYSPHSAA meetings. Report directly to the Athletic Director(s) at both The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School.

    Required Qualifications & Experience

    • High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's degree or higher preferred).
    • Previous experience as a tennis player and/or coach (High school varsity coaching experience is highly desirable).
    • Proficiency in teaching and coaching the fundamentals and strategy of tennis.
    • Ability to multitask effectively in a dynamic and busy athletic environment.
    • Must possess or be able to acquire the following certifications prior to the start of the season:
      • NYS Coaching License or NYS Temporary Coaching License.
      • CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification.
      • Heads Up Concussion Certification.
      • NFHS Implicit Bias Certification.
    • Effective interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills when working with middle/high school student-athletes, parents, and school administration.

    Schedule and Compensation

    • Work Hours: Practices typically run from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, but practice times are subject to change.
    • Match, invitational, and postseason hours vary significantly. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends is required to support scheduled athletic contests, tournaments, and team-building events.
    • Stipend Range: $3,750 - $4,000 (commensurate with experience).

    Application Procedure

    Interested candidates should email a resume, cover letter (or cover sheet), and at least 3 professional references to the Athletic Directors at: mtaillie@harleyschool.org and clamberton@allendalecolumbia.org.
    Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

    About HAC
    Allendale Columbia School and The Harley School maintain a joint athletic program to offer the best possible athletic options for student-athletes. By combining resources, student bodies, facilities, as well as faculty for coaching purposes, both schools can offer dynamic sports programs that fully support the physical, mental, and social development of each student-athlete.

    The HAC athletics program provides a variety of team sport experiences that help develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and good citizenship, while establishing good habits that prepare students for the future.

    Our student-athletes experience kinship and competition, while learning to win and lose gracefully. Positive life values are developed, and the time management skills the students learn will benefit them for life.

    Athletics are a very important and meaningful aspect of both Allendale Columbia and The Harley School’s education. Participating in team sports allows students to learn discipline, while developing healthy habits and experiencing the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes when participating on a team.

    Every student is encouraged to participate in a sport and HAC athletics provides opportunities at 3 different levels: modified, J.V., and varsity. When interscholastic competition begins in Middle School, our teams are all-inclusive, so every student who wants to play can be part of the team.
  • HAC Head Varsity Girls Tennis Coach

    Job: HAC Head Varsity Girls Tennis Coach 

    HAC, the joint interscholastic athletic program of The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School, is currently accepting applications for a Head Varsity Girls Tennis Coach for the 2026 fall sports season. 

    The varsity fall season is scheduled to begin Monday, August 24, 2026. The Head Varsity Girls Tennis Coach is a crucial leader responsible for the overall direction, development, and management of the HAC girls tennis program, promoting the core values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth for all student-athletes.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Program Leadership: Serve as the head of the HAC girls tennis program, providing strategic vision, leadership, and support to the entire program, including the Modified and Junior Varsity (if applicable) coaches and staff
    • Instruction and Development: Plan, organize, and execute effective, high-quality practices and match strategies, proficiently teaching and coaching the fundamentals and advanced techniques and strategies of tennis.
    • Student-Athlete Management and Well-Being: Manage, supervise, and ensure the safety and well-being of all student-athletes (typically 9+) during practices, travel, matches, tournaments, and team activities.
    • Culture and Values: Act as a positive role model and mentor, promoting an appreciation of teamwork, sportsmanship, commitment, and physical activity.
    • Feedback, Motivation and Teaching: Motivate, encourage, and provide constructive, positive, and impactful feedback to participating student-athletes to improve individual performance and the overall tennis experience.
    Administrative Duties:
    • Lead and organize essential administrative tasks, including uniform and equipment distribution, inventory, and end-of-season collection.
    • Maintain accurate records for attendance, match reporting, and promptly complete required injury reports.
    • Lead the planning and execution of offseason program-building initiatives and workouts.
    Professional Conduct: 
    Maintain a professional, positive, and composed attitude and demeanor in all situations, particularly those involving high-pressure contests or difficult circumstances.
    Compliance and Reporting:
    • Attend all required league, Section V, and NYSPHSAA meetings.
    • Report directly to the Athletic Director(s) at both The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School.

    Required Qualifications & Experience

    • High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's degree or higher preferred).
    • Previous experience as a tennis player and/or coach (High school varsity coaching experience is highly desirable).
    • Proficiency in teaching and coaching the fundamentals and strategy of tennis.
    • Must possess or be able to acquire the following certifications prior to the start of the season:
      • NYS Coaching License or NYS Temporary Coaching License
      • CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification
      • Heads Up Concussion Certification
      • NFHS Implicit Bias Certification 
    • Effective interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills when working with middle/high school student-athletes, parents, and school administration.
    • Ability to multitask effectively in a dynamic and busy athletic environment.

    Schedule and Compensation

    • Work Hours: Practices typically run from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, but practice times are subject to change.
    • Match, invitational and postseason hours vary significantly.
    • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends is required to support scheduled athletic contests, tournaments, and team-building events.
    • Stipend Range: $3,750 - $4,000 (commensurate with experience).

    Application Procedure

    Interested candidates should email a resume, cover letter (or cover sheet), and at least 3 professional references to the Athletic Directors at: mtaillie@harleyschool.org and clamberton@allendalecolumbia.org.
    Applications will be accepted through Friday, July 17, 2026.

    About HAC
    Allendale Columbia School and The Harley School maintain a joint athletic program to offer the best possible athletic options for student-athletes. By combining resources, student bodies, facilities, as well as faculty for coaching purposes, both schools can offer dynamic sports programs that fully support the physical, mental and social development of each student athlete.
    The HAC athletics program provides a variety of team sport experiences that help develop teamwork, sportsmanship and good citizenship, while establishing good habits that prepare students for the future.
    Our student-athletes experience kinship and competition, while learning to win and lose gracefully. Positive life values are developed and the time management skills the students learn will benefit them for life.

    Athletics are a very important and meaningful aspect of both Allendale Columbia and The Harley School’s education. Participating in team sports allows students to learn discipline, while developing healthy habits and experiencing the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes when participating on a team.

    Every student is encouraged to participate in a sport and HAC athletics provides opportunities at 3 different levels: modified, J.V. and varsity. When interscholastic competition begins in Middle School, our teams are all-inclusive, so every student who wants to play can be part of the team.
  • HAC Varsity Assistant Girls Tennis Coach

    HAC, the joint interscholastic athletic program of The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School, is currently accepting applications for a HAC Varsity Assistant Girls Tennis Coach for the 2026 fall sports season. 

    The varsity fall season is scheduled to begin Monday, August 24, 2026. The Varsity Assistant Girls Tennis Coach is a crucial member of the HAC girl tennis program and is responsible for supporting the overall direction, development, and management of the HAC girls tennis program, promoting the core values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth for all student-athletes.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Program Leadership: Support the Head Coach in leading the HAC girls tennis program, providing leadership, collaboration, and support to the entire program, including the Modified and Junior Varsity (if applicable) coaches and staff.
    • Instruction and Development: Assist in the planning, organization, and execution of effective, high-quality practices and match strategies, proficiently teaching and coaching the fundamentals and advanced techniques and strategies of tennis.
    • Student-Athlete Management and Well-Being: Assist in managing, supervising, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all student-athletes (typically 9+) during practices, travel, matches, tournaments, and team activities.
    • Culture and Values: Act as a positive role model and mentor, promoting an appreciation of teamwork, sportsmanship, commitment, and physical activity.
    • Feedback, Motivation and Teaching: Motivate, encourage, and provide constructive, positive, and impactful feedback to participating student-athletes to improve individual performance and the overall tennis experience.

    Administrative Duties:

    • Assist the Head Coach with essential administrative tasks, including uniform and equipment distribution, inventory, and end-of-season collection.
    • Help maintain accurate records for attendance, match reporting, and promptly assist with required injury reports.
    • Support the planning and execution of offseason program-building initiatives and workouts.

    Professional Conduct:

    • Maintain a professional, positive, and composed attitude and demeanor in all situations, particularly those involving high-pressure contests or difficult circumstances.

    Compliance and Reporting:

    • Work under the direct supervision of the Head Coach and report directly to the Athletic Director(s) at both The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School.

    Required Qualifications & Experience

    • High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's degree or higher preferred).
    • Previous experience as a tennis player and/or coach (High school coaching experience is highly desirable).
    • Proficiency in teaching and coaching the fundamentals and strategy of tennis.
    • Must possess or be able to acquire the following certifications prior to the start of the season:
      • NYS Coaching License or NYS Temporary Coaching License.
      • CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification.
      • Heads Up Concussion Certification.
      • NFHS Implicit Bias Certification
    • Effective interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills when working with middle/high school student-athletes, parents, and school administration.

    Schedule and Compensation

    • Work Hours: Practices typically run from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, but practice times are subject to change.
    • Match and invitational and postseason hours vary significantly.
    • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends is required to support scheduled athletic contests, tournaments, and team-building events.
    • Stipend Range: $2,500 - $3,000 (commensurate with experience).

    Application Procedure

    Interested candidates should email a resume, cover letter (or cover sheet), and at least 3 professional references to the Athletic Directors at: mtaillie@harleyschool.org and clamberton@allendalecolumbia.org.
    Applications accepted until July 15, 2026.

    About HAC

    Allendale Columbia School and The Harley School maintain a joint athletic program to offer the best possible athletic options for student-athletes. By combining resources, student bodies, facilities, as well as faculty for coaching purposes, both schools can offer dynamic sports programs that fully support the physical, mental, and social development of each student-athlete.

    The HAC athletics program provides a variety of team sport experiences that help develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and good citizenship, while establishing good habits that prepare students for the future.

    Our student-athletes experience kinship and competition, while learning to win and lose gracefully. Positive life values are developed, and the time management skills the students learn will benefit them for life.

    Athletics are a very important and meaningful aspect of both Allendale Columbia and The Harley School’s education. Participating in team sports allows students to learn discipline, while developing healthy habits and experiencing the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes when participating on a team.

    Every student is encouraged to participate in a sport and HAC athletics provides opportunities at 3 different levels: modified, J.V., and varsity. When interscholastic competition begins in Middle School, our teams are all-inclusive, so every student who wants to play can be part of the team.
     
  • HAC Varsity Assistant Swimming and Diving Coach

    HAC, the joint interscholastic athletic program of The Harley School and Allendale Columbia School, is currently accepting applications for an HAC Assistant Varsity Swimming and Diving Coach for the 2026–2027 winter sports season.

    The varsity winter sports season is scheduled to begin Monday, November 16, 2026.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Program Support: Assist the Varsity Head Coach with the planning, execution, coaching, and overall management of the boys and girls swimming and diving teams.
    • Instruction & Skill Development: Provide direct coaching and technical instruction to 15+ student-athletes during practices, meets, and invitationals, promoting stroke technique, diving mechanics, fitness, and sportsmanship.
    • Student-Athlete Management & Safety: Supervise student-athletes to ensure they are safe, accounted for, and supported during all practices, travel, and competitions.
    • Culture & Values: Act as a positive role model and mentor for all student-athletes, keeping their perspective in focus to provide an experience that directly reflects the HAC mission statement and philosophy.
    • Feedback & Motivation: Motivate, encourage, and provide constructive, positive feedback to participating student-athletes in an impactful way to help improve individual performances and the overall swimming and diving experience.
    • Professional Conduct: Maintain a professional, positive, and composed attitude and demeanor in all situations, including interacting with meet officials in a respectful manner.
    • Compliance & Meetings: Attend all required workshops and league meetings (Genesee Region Swimming and Diving League, Section V, and NYSPHSAA) relating to boys and girls swimming and diving as assigned.
    • Reporting: Report directly to the Head Varsity Swimming and Diving Coach, Athletic Director, and Assistant Athletic Director.

    Required Qualifications & Experience

    • High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's degree or higher preferred).
    • Previous swimming and/or diving experience as an athlete and/or interscholastic coach.
    • Proficiency in teaching and coaching the fundamentals of swimming and/or diving.
    • Ability to multitask effectively in a dynamic and busy athletic environment.
    • Effective interpersonal and communication skills when working with middle and high school student-athletes, parents, and school administration.
    • Must possess (or be able to acquire prior to the start of the season) the following certifications:
      • NYS Coaching License or NYS Temporary Coaching License.
      • CPR, First Aid, AED, and Heads Up Concussion Certification.
      • NYSED Fingerprinting clearance.

    Schedule and Compensation

    • Work Hours: Practices typically run from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, with occasional Saturday morning practices and invitationals.
    • Contests: Meets are typically held on weekdays, with evenings required for travel or team events.
    • Stipend Range: $2,500 – $3,000 (commensurate with experience).

    Application Procedure

    Interested candidates should email a resume, cover letter, and at least three professional references to the Athletic Directors:
    Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

    About HAC

    Allendale Columbia School and The Harley School maintain a joint athletic program to offer the best possible athletic options for student-athletes. By combining resources, student bodies, facilities, as well as faculty for coaching purposes, both schools can offer dynamic sports programs that fully support the physical, mental, and social development of each student-athlete.

    The HAC athletics program provides a variety of team sport experiences that help develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and good citizenship, while establishing good habits that prepare students for the future.

    Our student-athletes experience kinship and competition, while learning to win and lose gracefully. Positive life values are developed, and the time management skills the students learn will benefit them for life.

    Athletics are a very important and meaningful aspect of both Allendale Columbia and The Harley School’s education. Participating in team sports allows students to learn discipline, while developing healthy habits and experiencing the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes when participating on a team.

    Every student is encouraged to participate in a sport and HAC athletics provides opportunities at 3 different levels: modified, J.V., and varsity. When interscholastic competition begins in Middle School, our teams are all-inclusive, so every student who wants to play can be part of the team.
  • Part Time: After School and Vacation Day Program Instructor

    Allendale Columbia, a diverse, co-educational, college-prep independent school serving over 350 students in grades nursery through 12, seeks an experienced, dynamic learner to join a team of professionals responsible for innovative and authentic programming! We are seeking to fill the Part-Time After-School Program Instructor position in our Rainbow Room After-School Program. Hours for this position are 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. after school days for the 2026-2027 school year, and 8-hour vacation days when school is not in session. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a flexible schedule—such as a retiree, college student, or anyone looking to supplement their income—to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children while working in a fun, supportive environment.

    Rainbow Room Instructors lead engaging activities such as arts and crafts, science experiments, treasure hunts, games, and nature walks for students in Grades Nursery– 5th grade. In this role, you’ll foster a nurturing space that promotes creativity, cooperation, and kindness. Ideal candidates are patient, playful, and enjoy spending time with children in an educational and recreational setting.
     
    Important skills include the ability to assist in resolving conflicts and to encourage students to try new things in the safety and comfort of our nourishing environment. Rainbow Room Instructors instill cooperative values, such as using manners and having empathy for others. Most importantly, Rainbow Room teachers try to make after-school and vacation days as much fun as possible!


    Schedule:
    • Monday–Friday, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM when school is in session
    • Additional hours available on full-day vacation programs when school is closed
    Key Responsibilities:
    • Supervise and engage with students during after-school hours and vacation care days
    • Lead or assist with planned activities, including crafts, outdoor play, and group games
    • Promote cooperative play, problem-solving, and empathy
    • Ensure the physical and emotional safety of students in your care
    • Maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment for all children
    Compensation: $16.50 - $17.00/hr

    Requirements

    Qualifications and Skills:
    • Experience working with children in a school, camp, daycare, or similar setting preferred
    • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
    • Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently and as part of a team
    • Ability to use sound judgment and stay calm in a busy environment
    • First Aid/CPR certification is a plus (training can be provided if not yet certified)
    Education:
    • Bachelor’s degree or coursework in education or child development is a plus, but not required
    Physical Requirements:
    • Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
    • Comfortable bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and participating in active play
    • Ability to move freely between the classroom and outdoor environments

    How to Apply

    Send a resume and letter of interest to Brooke Wheeler, Head of Rainbow Room at bwheeler@allendalecolumbia.org. Include your full name and "Rainbow Room Instructor" in the subject line. 

    Allendale Columbia School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, marital or veteran status, age, or disability. We actively seek diversity among faculty, administration, and students.
  • Substitute Teacher

    Allendale Columbia is seeking experienced and dynamic educators to join a team of professionals responsible for innovative, authentic, and student-centered learning in various subject areas for Lower, Middle and Upper School grade levels (Nursery - Grade 12).

    Duties to Include the Following:
    • Carry out lesson plan instructions from the classroom teacher, and/or create lesson plans in absence of a prepared lesson
    • Take attendance according to school procedure each morning
    • Supplement lesson plans with your own class activities if lessons end early
    • Create and maintain a discipline and classroom control that fosters a safe and productive learning environment
    Qualifications:
    • Experience working with students
    • Experience/skills in working with collaborative relationships
    • Good knowledge of behavior management techniques with children
    • Flexibility and patience with an ever-changing schedule day to day
    • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
    • Ability to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with teachers, administrators, and family members
    • Ability to use good judgment
    • Be available for full-time employment that could fluctuate between the hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
    • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination
    Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to  jobs@allendalecolumbia.org with the subject line "Substitute Teacher". Please do not send a fax or paper copy.

Benefits

Benefits for full-time Allendale Columbia School employees include medical and dental insurance for the individual, TIAA/CREF retirement plan contributions, life insurance, generous support for professional development, lunch in the Dining Commons, and partial tuition remission for qualified children. All faculty members are issued a laptop.

Allendale Columbia School, as an equal opportunity employer, does not discriminate in its hiring of employees on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, marital or veteran status, age or disability. We actively seek diversity among faculty and administration as well as among students.


At Allendale Columbia, we prepare students for the world they will inherit. In our trusting and responsive environment, students 18 months through grade 12 grow in confidence and develop scholastic independence.