Need help with over zealous assistant

I've been a teacher for almost 10 years. I only recently have been teaching with an assistant as I teach younger grades. The first year she was wonderful. She is very creative, works hard and would do as I expected of her.

As the years went on, she got too comfortable. She takes personal calls in the classroom from her kids (not emergencies, just in general, every day). She dresses very unprofessionally (our principal has spoken to her). She is in contact with the parents if children arrive late as I am involved with our morning routine and she will open the door. She can be very curt, rude to parents (looking up at the clock when she opens the door or saying, class begins at 8). A few times I was at workshops during the day or left early for dr's appts, etc. & she was 'in charge" for that time. Well, she's written notes to parents or spoke to parents about incidences in the room. She told a child he's rude.

It's gotten to the point that some parents are requesting the other teacher in the grade as they don't want their children in contact w/ my assistant.

I've spoken to my principal once (when she decided to reorganize my entire classroom after school one day!!!) & my principal defended her saying she works for nothing ($10 an hour) & she supports her family & she works hard & how she was trying to help me?! My principal doesn't want to lose her as she in charge of our afterschool program (that no one wants to do).

Also when I went to my principal, my asst. found out & for 2 weeks said NOTHING to me at work. She did her job but started taking notes on ME! (If I arrived late; if I checked my voicemail; if I left for lunch 2 minutes early). She's also bipolar & on meds. Twice she went all out on me & another co-worker when we were telling her she has to let go a bit with her crafts. She refuses to let the children "do" a craft & will do it "the right way." If my 5 year old came home with an art project clearly done by the teacher it would mean nothing to me. I've spoken to her about this & then her attitude is, well you can handle arts & crafts--which I did but she'll then sit there and wait for directions from me.

At this point she knows what needs to be done; she knows my routine, etc.

I just don't know how to handle. My principal cares for her & hasn't listened to my concerns in the past. I don't think she'd fire her & there's no one else that would work FT (as she does)--so they wouldn't move her. Last time I said something it backfired. She is also very buddy buddy with the other teacher in the grade (as their children are the same age, same schools).

It's just a very hard place to be in. :(

This is also a private school; so my principal is "it."

Re: Need help with over zealous assistant

I had a response all ready until I saw your last sentence

Have you tried talking to the assistant directly? Ultimately, this is your classroom, and you want it represented in a respectful manner.

Re: Need help with over zealous assistant

Since it sounds like you are going to be stuck with her so maybe type up a clear schedule/work expectations for the class room...not necessarily directed at her, but for "your" own benefit to get "you" more organized YNWIM....

Re: Need help with over zealous assistant

I agree with the previous posters. I would make it clear that she should never be contacting parents, that's really crossing the line. It sounds like you have to be all business all the time with her. She needs to know it's your classroom and you're in charge.
I worked in a catholic school for one year & had a principal that was not supportive in any way. She encouraged teachers to snoop on each other and report back to her. It was a ridiculous environment to work in which is why I only made it one year. It sounds like you are in a similar environment. Sorry you have to deal with this, it sounds like a very difficult situation.