Overview Sapling Woods Nature School is a play-based, outdoor-immersive preschool and early elementary program that encourages curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world. We believe that children thrive when they are given space to explore, create, and grow in a supportive and enriching environment. Job description We are seeking an enthusiastic, nature-loving teacher to support the mission of our program ._ This position offers a dynamic opportunity to facilitate nature-based early childhood education for children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old ._ In this role, you will collaborate with Lead teachers and co-teachers to establish a learning environment where children are respected, challenged, and inspired. Tasks include supporting the lead teacher by thoughtful, developmentally appropriate curriculum design based on children's emergent interests, on-going reflection about and assessment of children and the forest school program, and collaboration with other teachers and/or volunteers. The lead teacher will manage support staff as needed. This position requires a blend of qualifications that span having some knowledge about early childhood education as well as nature-based pedagogy. Candidates should possess curiosity and some understanding of the local ecosystem with a commitment to helping young children develop their ecological identities through inquiry and play. Position requires personal and programmatic reflection, collaboration with teachers and parents, open dialogue about children's progress, and interfacing with community partners.

The ideal candidate will:

Be passionate about educating children in nature. Be self-motivated with the flexibility to work collaboratively as part of a team. Have excellent interpersonal skills, and organizational skills. Be a skilled communicator, guided by a desire to listen to and speak compassionately with both children and adults. Feel comfortable and confident about meeting the needs of children outdoors in all seasons.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

Responsible for supporting outdoor experiences for children ages2 ½ to 5 years old. This includes maintaining a safe, loving environment with safety routines that protect yet empower children, including policies to safeguard against the spread of illness. Nurture individualized needs of children while managing whole group experiences and unstructured play in the forest and classroom. Help the lead teacher utilize an emergent curriculum plan and implement daily lessons. Participate in various community-building initiatives with staff and local partners. Participate in supporting authentic child assessment, self-evaluation, and program evaluation. Other duties that support families, children, and staff will also be assigned as needed.

Collaborative duties with fellow staff:

At times, assist with documentation of learning processes in many formats for children's portfolios (written documentation, photos, content for the website, etc.). Provide positive guidance to children in navigating their social interactions with peers and adults. Maintain friendly yet professional interpersonal communication skills with children, families, fellow staff and volunteers. Participate in staff meetings and on-going professional development. Attend occasional community events (IE. Open Houses) for prospective families. Essential Experience & Education Possess or in pursuit of bachelor's degree in nature-based early childhood education, environmental studies, outdoor education, natural history, biology, elementary education, or closely related field Possess or obtain the following credentials, certifications, or licenses: Current first aid and CPR credentials (Wilderness First Responder preferred, but not required) Must pass background check, child abuse clearances, before starting employment Experience working with young children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old Physically able to hike, carry gear, and carry a small child if needed (up to 50 lbs) Classes take place both indoors and outdoors, so candidates must be comfortable and enthusiastic about facilitating outdoor learning in all types of weather and seasons. Most Desirable Qualities Love of children Love of nature A strong work ethic with a track record of being reliable, on time, honest, and kind Ability to laugh, remain calm, and persevere when faced with challenges Patient, positive disposition Eager to grow and learn with others Additional Skills & Training Excellent written and verbal communication skills Proficient in Google Drive & Gmail Proficient use of social media platforms including Instagram, Twitter, and FaceBook Excited to support outdoor programs in all kinds of weather Flexible mindset and positive attitude Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team Salary This is a part-time, salary position with a pay range between $20,000 - $26,000, (based on certifications and experience) for a 10 month timeframe. Benefits Paid Time Off (PTO): 7 days of PTO are provided annually. Unused days may roll over into the next year. How to Apply This job description offers guidelines for the position, not hard and fast rules. If you have 75% of the qualifications listed, we encourage you to apply! Send your resume and three references to Amy@SaplingWoods.com. If hired, you will complete a background check, fingerprinting, and formal application of employment.

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

$20,000.00 - $26,000.00 per year Expected hours: 30.0 per week

Benefits:

Paid time off

Work Location:

In person