Preschool Lead Teacher

Join Our Nature-Inspired Preschool Team! Woodlands Day School is looking for a warm, creative early childhood educator to lead a small, play-based classroom for ages 2.5 - 5 years old. Our teachers spend their days outdoors exploring, creating, and connecting — with the flexibility and support of a small, family-oriented program. Key Responsibilities Plan and lead age-appropriate, play-based lessons and activities aligned with our monthly nature-inspired themes and curriculum framework. Facilitate outdoor learning sessions and play several times a day all year round, barring extreme temperatures or unsafe weather conditions. Foster a nurturing classroom environment that promotes belonging, safety, exploration, and joy. Observe and document children's development and learning through informal assessments and anecdotal notes. Communicate professionally and compassionately with caregivers about children's progress, needs, and daily experiences. Collaborate with fellow teachers to create a cohesive and consistent classroom experience. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment , ensuring adherence to health and safety protocols. Teach/support potty training in the classroom if needed. Build strong routines and procedures for the classroom including: transitions, snack/lunch routines, outdoor play, and classroom setup/cleanup Participate in team meetings, professional development, and occasional school events or family nights.

Qualifications Required:

High School Diploma Certificate in Early Childhood Education or related field AND/OR 3+ years of experience as a Lead Teacher in a licensed preschool or early childhood setting Deep understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practice Strong classroom management skills grounded in positive discipline and respect CPR and First Aid certified (or willing to obtain before start date) Ability to lift 30 lbs, sit on the floor, and be active with young children

Preferred:

Associates Degree or higher in Early Childhood education or related field and 2+ years experience as a Preschool or PreK Lead Teacher Familiarity with emergent curriculum, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, or Waldorf-inspired approaches Experience with mixed-age groups Enthusiasm for outdoor learning and nature-based experiences What We Offer Competitive pay Paid planning time Tuition discount Annual professional development reimbursement Paid Holidays New Years Day MLK Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas Eve Christmas Day 401K plan PTO What to Expect Next... We review applications weekly and reach out within 48-72 hours to schedule a quick phone or Zoom conversation should you meet the qualifications for the position and seem like a good fit. After that, we'll invite you to visit the school for an onsite working interview if there seems to be a fit.

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

$18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Application Question(s): Are you willing to sit, stand, walk for 30 minutes at a time to supervise and actively engage with children?

Experience:

Lead Teaching:

2 years (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Quinton, VA 23141 (Required)

Work Location:

In person