Careers

Thank you for your interest in employment opportunities at The Basilica School of Saint Mary. Below are the current open positions that we are looking to fill. If you are interested in helping us fulfill our mission of forming our students into saints, stewards, and scholars in a Christ-centered school, please send your cover letter and resume to Mrs. Shannon Mahoney at smahoney@smsva.org.

Individuals applying for teacher positions must submit an application with the Diocese of Arlington Office of Catholic Schools. Click here for information and to apply.

Job Opportunities

Commercial Cleaner

The Basilica School of Saint Mary
Alexandria, VA • smsva.org

The Basilica School of Saint Mary, a Catholic Pre-K through eighth grade parish school in Old Town Alexandria, VA, seeks a part-time Custodian to help maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Overview of the Position

The Custodian is responsible for performing a variety of cleaning and maintenance tasks to ensure the cleanliness and safety of school facilities. This position reports to the Facilities Manager and supports the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary by maintaining spaces conducive to learning, worship, and community life.

Schedule

Part-time, 3 days per week
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Responsibilities

Sweep, mop, vacuum, and dust classrooms, offices, hallways, and common areas.
Sanitize restrooms, breakrooms, and high-touch surfaces.
Empty trash and recycling bins and replace liners.
Clean windows, glass partitions, and mirrors as needed.
Restock restroom and kitchen supplies.
Report any maintenance or safety issues to management.
Follow established cleaning procedures and safety guidelines.
Float between multiple school or parish locations as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum of 3 years of commercial cleaning experience required.
Reliable transportation and ability to travel between locations.
Active cell phone required for receiving job assignments and clocking in/out.
Ability to work independently and efficiently.
Strong attention to detail, reliability, and punctuality.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and perform physical tasks such as bending, standing, and moving for extended periods.

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Application

Please email applications or inquiries to:
Mr. Chris Webb and copy hr@smsva.org

About The Basilica School of Saint Mary

The mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary is to nurture saints, stewards, and scholars. We nurture saints by teaching our students about God’s presence and providing opportunities for sanctification. Our students become stewards through our emphasis on service to others—both through organized community projects and daily acts of kindness. Finally, we strive for academic rigor in all subjects, encouraging students to reach their highest potential and develop the gifts God has given them.

Extended Day Front Desk Staff

The Basilica School of Saint Mary
Alexandria, VA • smsva.org

The Basilica School of Saint Mary, a Catholic Pre-K through eighth grade parish school in Old Town Alexandria, VA, seeks a part-time Extended Day Front Desk Staff member to support the after-school program. This role serves as the welcoming face of the Extended Day program and plays a vital part in maintaining a safe, organized, and friendly environment during student dismissal.

Overview of the Position

The Extended Day Front Desk Staff manages student sign-outs, verifies authorized pickups, and ensures smooth communication between families and staff during after-school hours. This position requires professionalism, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills to help provide a secure and faith-filled atmosphere aligned with the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary.

Responsibilities

Arrive one hour prior to dismissal to prepare materials, rosters, and communications.
Greet families and visitors warmly during Extended Day pickup.
Manage and verify student dismissals using official rosters and sign-out systems.
Request and verify photo identification for unfamiliar individuals; confirm authorization and relationship to the student.
Ensure students are released only to those on the authorized pickup list.
Communicate clearly with Extended Day staff using the walkie system to coordinate student transitions.
Track student attendance and communicate updates to the Director of Extended Day.
Document early pickups, late arrivals, and incidents as needed.
Respond to family inquiries and redirect questions or concerns to appropriate staff.
Maintain a calm, tidy, and organized front desk area.
Distribute notes or messages to classrooms when needed.
Assist with minor first-aid documentation or health-related communication as necessary.
Provide occasional clerical or supply support to Extended Day staff.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Prior experience in a school, camp, or administrative/front-facing role strongly preferred.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with walkie-talkie communication and digital or printed rosters.
Commitment to student safety, confidentiality, and adherence to school protocols.
Must be at least 18 years old, able to pass a background check, and complete VIRTUS child protection training.
Commitment to supporting the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary and upholding the values of the Catholic faith.

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Application

Please send applications or inquiries to:
Ms. Ana Bencosme

About The Basilica School of Saint Mary

The mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary is to nurture saints, stewards, and scholars. We nurture saints by teaching our students about God’s presence and providing opportunities for sanctification. Our students become stewards through our emphasis on community service—both through organized projects and daily acts of kindness. Finally, we strive for academic rigor in all subjects, encouraging students to reach their highest potential and develop the gifts God has given them.

Extended Day Staff

The Basilica School of Saint Mary, a Catholic Pre-K through eight Parish School in Alexandria, Virginia, is seeking after-school staff for Extended Care Program working with the middle school and elementary grade for the 2024-2025 school year. The staff member will work as a team, in a highly collaborative manner. The staff member will manage a variety of activities including indoor and outdoor play. Qualified candidates will fully embrace the mission of our Catholic school, which recognizes the infinite value of each student, seeks to develop the gifts of all, and nurtures them to be saints, stewards, and scholars. Ideal candidates will have childcare experience, an understanding of child development, and an interest in providing a happy after-school experience.

The afterschool program requires that you love God, His Children, and their joyful voices! We are in beautiful Old Town Alexandria, VA, Diocese of Arlington. An hourly wage of $18 to start. Will consider 3 days a week for those unable to commit to 5 days

Minimum Requirements

Experience working with children

Physical Demands

Stairs, lift 20 lbs, travel between classrooms and through the campus

Job Type: Part-time

If interested, please contact Mrs. Ashley Bencosme at abencosme@smsva.org

Instructional Assistant

The Basilica School of Saint Mary
Alexandria, VA • smsva.org

The Basilica School of Saint Mary, a Catholic Pre-K through eighth grade parish school in Old Town Alexandria, VA, seeks full-time Instructional Assistants for the 2025–2026 school year. Positions are available in both primary and middle school grades.

Overview of the Position

The Instructional Assistant works collaboratively with the homeroom teacher to support classroom instruction, manage learning activities, and contribute to a faith-filled, academically rigorous environment. The Instructional Assistant helps promote the intellectual, spiritual, and character formation of each student, in alignment with the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary.

Responsibilities

Collaborate closely with the homeroom teacher to support classroom instruction and activities.
Assist with small group and one-on-one instruction to reinforce learning objectives.
Supervise students during transitions, lunch, recess, and other non-classroom periods.
Help maintain an orderly, respectful, and positive classroom environment.
Prepare instructional materials and assist with grading or record-keeping as directed.
Support student engagement and classroom management strategies.
Communicate effectively with the teacher and other staff to ensure a consistent learning experience.
Model and reinforce Catholic values and support students in their spiritual growth.
Perform additional duties as assigned by the teacher or administration.

Qualifications

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Understanding of child development and interest in pursuing a career in education.
Prior classroom or childcare experience preferred.
Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
Commitment to fostering a positive, nurturing, and faith-centered learning environment.
Must complete VIRTUS child protection training and pass a background check.
Commitment to supporting and modeling the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary and the values of Catholic education.

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Application

Applicants must submit a completed application through the Diocese of Arlington at Arlington Diocese Employment Application and be certified or eligible for certification in Virginia.

Please also submit a cover letter, resume, and professional references to:
Human Resources

About The Basilica School of Saint Mary

The mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary is to nurture saints, stewards, and scholars. We nurture saints by teaching our students about God’s presence and providing opportunities for sanctification. Our students become stewards through our emphasis on community service—both through organized projects and daily acts of kindness. Finally, we strive for academic rigor in all subjects, encouraging students to reach their highest potential and develop the gifts God has given them.

Music Teacher (Grades K-2)

Music Teacher (Grades K–2)

The Basilica School of Saint Mary
Alexandria, VA • smsva.org

The Basilica School of Saint Mary, a Catholic Pre-K through eighth grade parish school in Old Town Alexandria, VA, seeks a part-time Music Teacher for grades K–2 for the 2025–2026 school year.

Overview of the Position

The Music Teacher provides engaging, developmentally appropriate instruction in music fundamentals while inspiring students to appreciate and express beauty through the arts. This teacher will nurture students’ intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth within a Catholic environment and collaborate closely with grade-level and upper-level music faculty to ensure a cohesive music program.

Responsibilities

Provide instruction in general music for students in grades K–2.
Develop lessons that build foundational skills in rhythm, melody, movement, and musical expression.
Cultivate an appreciation for beauty and the arts consistent with Catholic values.
Foster a positive, joyful, and faith-filled classroom environment.
Integrate Catholic themes and virtues into instruction when appropriate.
Collaborate with other music faculty and grade-level teams to support school-wide programs and performances.
Assess and document student progress in alignment with curriculum goals.
Communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
Participate in faculty meetings and professional development as required.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Music Education or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
Holds, or is willing to work toward, Virginia teaching certification.
Prior elementary classroom teaching experience strongly preferred.
Strong musical skills in both vocal and instrumental instruction.
Excellent classroom management and communication skills.
Ability to inspire a love of music and integrate faith into instruction.
Commitment to supporting and modeling the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary and the values of Catholic education.

Salaries are highly competitive and commensurate with experience.

Application

Applicants must submit a completed application through the Diocese of Arlington at Arlington Diocese Employment Application and be certified or eligible for certification in Virginia.

Please also submit a cover letter, resume, and professional references to:
Human Resources

About The Basilica School of Saint Mary

The mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary is to nurture saints, stewards, and scholars. We nurture saints by teaching our students about God’s presence and providing opportunities for sanctification. Our students become stewards through our emphasis on community service—both through organized projects and daily acts of kindness. Finally, we strive for academic rigor in all subjects, encouraging students to reach their highest potential and develop the gifts God has given them.

Substitute Teacher

The Basilica School of Saint Mary
Alexandria, VA • smsva.org

The Basilica School of Saint Mary, a Catholic Pre-K through eighth grade parish school in Old Town Alexandria, VA, seeks qualified Substitute Teachers to support classroom instruction and maintain a positive, faith-filled learning environment in the absence of regular teachers.

Overview of the Position

Substitute Teachers provide instructional support across grade levels and subject areas, ensuring continuity of learning and a safe, respectful, and Catholic classroom culture. Working under the supervision of the Principal and teaching staff, substitutes are valued members of our educational community who uphold the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary.

Schedule

On-call, part-time position
School hours: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Substitutes must be available to work at least three days per week and be open to short-notice assignments.

Responsibilities

Report to the school office by 7:30 AM and remain on campus until 3:30 PM, unless otherwise directed.
Implement lesson plans provided by the classroom teacher, adapting instruction to meet student needs.
Maintain a structured, respectful, and faith-filled classroom environment where students feel safe and supported.
Supervise students in the classroom, at lunch, during recess, assemblies, and transitions throughout the day.
Manage student behavior in alignment with school policies, modeling and reinforcing Catholic values.
Communicate effectively with students, faculty, and administration to ensure smooth daily operations.
Take accurate attendance and report student progress, participation, or concerns as directed.
Handle classroom materials responsibly and leave the room neat and organized for the returning teacher.
Support students’ faith development by encouraging prayer, respect, and positive peer interactions.
Respond calmly and effectively to unexpected situations while maintaining professionalism.

Qualifications

High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred (Education or related field strongly valued).
Prior teaching or classroom experience preferred, but not required.
Must provide a pastoral reference affirming commitment to Catholic values.
Strong classroom management and interpersonal skills.
Flexibility to work across grade levels and subjects, often with limited preparation time.
Effective communication and collaboration skills.
Availability at least three days per week, including short-notice calls.
Must be at least 21 years old, able to pass a background check, and complete VIRTUS child protection training.
Commitment to supporting the mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary and modeling Catholic faith values.

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Application

Please send applications or inquiries to:
Ms. Ana Bencosme

About The Basilica School of Saint Mary

The mission of The Basilica School of Saint Mary is to nurture saints, stewards, and scholars. We nurture saints by teaching our students about God’s presence and providing opportunities for sanctification. Our students become stewards through our emphasis on community service—both through organized projects and daily acts of kindness. Finally, we strive for academic rigor in all subjects, encouraging students to reach their highest potential and develop the gifts God has given them.