Preschool Teacher

Nature-Based Preschool Teacher

Educates pre-elementary age students kindergarten readiness skills through age-appropriate, interactive, hands-on activities in a nature-based learning environment weekday mornings September through May. Continually engages in activities through play, exploration and inquisition while providing quality care and enrichment that enhances children's social skills, elevates activity level and extends learning in a fun and safe environment. This position requires a love for the outdoors in all weather conditions.

Key Functions

• Ensures compliance with all applicable policies, procedures, laws and regulations
• Engages in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities to achieve curriculum objectives
• Teaches developmentally appropriate nature-based preschool lessons guided by the NAAEE Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs: Guidelines for Excellence with a focus on project based and inquiry-based learning
• Works in conjunction with program director(s) to create developmentally appropriate nature-based preschool lessons guided by the NAAEE Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs: Guidelines for Excellence with a focus on project based and inquiry-based learning
• Teaches a curriculum utilizing appropriate resources that will promote both kindergarten readiness skills and environmental stewardship in an outdoor learning environment where open-ended play is the focus
• Leads daily outdoor explorations, nature walks, and play in forest, field and garden settings
• Promotes environmental awareness and respect for living things through hands-on learning
• Addresses the emotional, cognitive, social and physical needs of participants
• Identifies areas of improvement; makes recommendations to supervisor and fellow Preschool Teacher(s) based off of assessments, current research and developmentally appropriate practices
• Provides a safe environment for the children indoors, outdoors and beyond
• Other duties as assigned

The LSC Way

• Deliver legendary service
• Take ownership
• Lead by example
• Collaborate

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Must have a love for the outdoors/nature and comfortable being outdoors in all types of weather
• Background in environmental science, forest schools; familiarity with alternative education models (e.g. Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Montessori)
• Understanding of Forest School principles and possesses a deep respect for child-centered education and the natural world
• Strong decision making, organizational, versatility, initiative, and human relation skills
• Ability to effectively handle multiple tasks
• Above average interpersonal skills with strong written/oral communication skills and an ability to work with a wide variety of people and circumstances

Minimum Qualifications

• Degree in Early Childhood Education, Development or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities
• Experience working in nature-based instruction, outdoor education or similar field preferred
• Current CPR, First Aid, AED certifications; will train
• Child Abuse prevention training; will train

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to exert up to twenty-five pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects when needed. Physical demands are in excess of those for sedentary work; must be able to remain on feet for extended periods. Must be comfortable working in all weather conditions.

About Us

Come work with us! At Leroy Springs & Company, we are more than a nonprofit organization. We are a family of brands rooted in nonprofit recreation, with a legacy lasting more than 80 years and a long-held belief that all people should benefit from affordable outdoor recreation, education and wellness opportunities. Today, our portfolio includes the Anne Springs Close Greenway, a 2,100-acre nature preserve; four historic golf courses; Springmaid Mountain Retreat in Spruce Pine, NC; and the FLYERS Afterschool program, which serves all Fort Mill elementary schools.

With a team of over 500 dedicated employees across four counties and two states, we are united by values of excellence, integrity and community. Our culture is built on trust, collaboration and a shared vision for a vibrant future.

Whether you are interested in outdoor seasonal jobs, non-traditional education positions, or a segue into the nonprofit, golf or parks and recreation industries, Leroy Springs & Company offers a place to grow, connect and make a lasting impact.