Administrative Assistant; Long-Term Substitute

The Role:

Thurston Middle School seeks an Administrative Assistant (Long-Term Substitute) to support the middle school administrative team until the end of the  school year. The assistant is an integral member of the main office staff, efficiently and systematically accomplishing a variety of tasks and projects assigned by the Principal, Assistant Principal, and Dean of Students. Our ideal candidate is friendly, flexible, collaborative, takes initiative, and invests in the success of all students.

You will interact frequently with students, families, staff, and members of the greater community to help ensure the daily business and interpersonal functions of the main office run smoothly. You will also assist the administrative team in managing student achievement and behavior interventions; gathering, organizing, and maintaining data; and implementing school-wide events, initiatives, and programs.

Thurston Middle School is a thriving community of hardworking and thoughtful students, families, and staff. With approximately 650 students in grades 6-8, the school maintains a small‑school feel while offering a comprehensive array of academic programs, co‑curricular activities, and support services. Our educators model and encourage a deep investment in learning. Coursework focuses on preparing students for college and careers while also providing them with opportunities to try new things and explore their passions in depth.

Thurston Middle School is a proud METCO school, with strong program leadership and an unwavering commitment to supporting the values of the nation’s oldest and most successful public school racial integration program.

Westwood is a welcoming suburban community with an exceptional track record of supporting and celebrating its public schools. As a district, we are committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives and backgrounds are embraced, and we understand that a diverse team allows us to serve our community better. We welcome and encourage individuals of every race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital/domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, and veteran status to seek opportunities within our school district.

• Associate’s Degree required, additional education desirable
• Experience in a fast‑paced educational or business environment preferred

• Oversee the daily operations of the middle school main office and ensure building efficiency and security, including answering phones and making sure visitors sign in.
• Maintain student attendance records and manage communications with students, staff, families, vendors, and community members.
• Support the administrative team for MCAS testing coordination: provide logistical and clerical help, coordinate with the Massachusetts Department of Secondary Education, and liaise with operations staff to ensure testing and reporting are administered effectively.
• Craft digital, written, and verbal school‑ and district‑wide communications.
• Maintain individual and master calendars and coordinate school‑year events: identify space, provide event details, and communicate requirements internally to operations and externally to vendors.
• Manage and coordinate substitute coverage with the online substitute placement system.
• Prepare and submit biweekly payroll for authorization.
• Use and manage technology (Google Suite, Aspen, etc.) to oversee, maintain, organize, and present records and information.
• Perform other duties, support special projects, and other tasks as assigned.
• Manage the Thurston Middle School website.

The administrative assistant reports to the building Principal and designee. This is a full‑year position.

• Demonstrates caring and concern for all students and staff.
• Shows sound judgment and effective communication with students, families, staff, administrators, and the public.
• Maintains professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
• Possesses technological proficiency: the necessary skills to produce and maintain digital and written reports, records, and…