Nature & Play-Based Lead Teacher (Preschool)

The SchoolhouseSouth Burlington, VT
Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, School-Age Education, Science, Environmental Studies, Nature-Based Education, or a related field.
  • A demonstrated track record of working successfully with children (for candidates with science/environmental degrees without formal ECE training).
  • A strong interest in nature-based and play-based education (for candidates with science/environmental degrees without formal ECE training).
  • A commitment to completing any required coursework or training needed to meet Vermont Child Care Licensing requirements (for candidates with science/environmental degrees without formal ECE training).
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • First Aid/CPR certification within the timeline required by Vermont Child Care Licensing regulations.

Nice To Haves

  • Enjoy hiking, exploring the outdoors, discovering brooks, bugs, frogs, plants, and hidden woodland spaces alongside young children.
  • Passionate about gardening, baking, art, music, literacy, and supporting children's learning through play.
  • Wonder what it would be like to teach in a progressive, independent school.

Responsibilities

  • Assist the head teacher(s) in a classroom alongside a team of collaborative and dedicated teaching partners.
  • Inspire curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world in young children.
  • Implement the Story Time curriculum and philosophy.
  • Design and adapt engaging learning experiences that reflect our nature-based, play-based approach.
  • Observe children's interests and developmental needs and use those observations to guide meaningful, child-centered learning opportunities.
  • Spend significant time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
  • Commit to ongoing professional growth, including completing a minimum of 15 hours of early childhood professional development annually.
  • Obtain First Aid/CPR certification within the timeline required by Vermont Child Care Licensing regulations.

Benefits

  • 401(k) matching
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service