Nature & Play-Based Lead Teacher (Preschool)

Job Description

Job Description

Are you looking for a teaching position where you can combine your love of children, nature, and hands-on learning? Do you enjoy hiking, exploring the outdoors, discovering brooks, bugs, frogs, plants, and hidden woodland spaces alongside young children? Are you passionate about gardening, baking, art, music, literacy, and supporting children's learning through play? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to teach in a progressive, independent school?

If you answered "yes" to these questions, we'd love to hear from you!

The Schoolhouse Learning Center is seeking full and part time lead teachers to assist the head teacher (s) in a classroom alongside a team of collaborative and dedicated teaching partners. We are looking for an enthusiastic educator who values play-based, nature-based learning and is excited to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world in young children.

Qualifications

Education and Training

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, School-Age Education, Science, Environmental Studies, Nature-Based Education, or a related field.*

Candidates with degrees in science, environmental studies, nature-based education, or other related fields who do not have formal training in early childhood education may be considered if they have:

• A demonstrated track record of working successfully with children;
• A strong interest in nature-based and play-based education; and
• A commitment to completing any required coursework or training needed to meet Vermont Child Care Licensing requirements.

Experience

A minimum of one year of successful experience leading a classroom of young children as an Lead Teacher or assistant teacher, including curriculum development, implementation, and assessment.

Skills and Professional Qualities

• Demonstrated ability to build positive, collaborative relationships with children, families, and colleagues while fostering a strong classroom community.
• Proven leadership skills, including the ability to hold a group.
• Commitment to implementing the Story Time curriculum and philosophy while designing and adapting engaging learning experiences that reflect our nature-based, play-based approach.
• Ability to observe children's interests and developmental needs and use those observations to guide meaningful, child-centered learning opportunities.
• Enthusiasm for spending significant time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
• Commitment to ongoing professional growth, including completing a minimum of 15 hours of early childhood professional development annually and obtaining First Aid/CPR certification within the timeline required by Vermont Child Care Licensing regulations.

* Please refer to Vermont Child Care Licensing regulations for a complete list of acceptable related fields. Examples include Child Development, Social Work, Psychology, and other closely related disciplines.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person