Nature Preschool & Toddler Teacher

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network•Malden, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an enthusiastic Preschool Teacher. The ideal candidate will be someone with a passion for both young children and nature-based education, someone who will nurture children’s curiosity, encourage exploration, and help foster a sense of wonder and community. This teacher will guide and support young children’s development through meaningful outdoor experiences while building strong relationships with families.

Requirements

EEC StrongStart Essentials 2.0 Training certificate & Refresher (Required)
Suitable Background Check
Strong classroom management skills and the ability to maintain a safe, positive, and effective learning environment.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage program logistics while also teaching.
Strong communication skills with children, families, and colleagues.
Passion for environmental education and anti-bias education.
An appreciation for all kinds of weather, seeing each change as an opportunity to connect with nature.
A humble and reflective attitude with a willingness to learn and grow.

Nice To Haves

At least 3 years of experience in early childhood education, nature-based education, or a related field.
EEC teacher certification in Infant Toddler or Preschool age group (Lead Teacher or Director Certification is a bonus!).

Responsibilities

Implement engaging, hands-on activities that promote exploration, curiosity and a love of nature. Curricula should incorporate nature-based art, music literacy, gross motor and fine motor materials and activities.
Maintain and manage classroom materials including equipment, Supplies and resources. This includes replenishing depleted items and submitting supply orders when necessary.
Support children with nature exploration, including but not limited to; lead site hikes and explore topography, vegetation and animals. Facilitate opportunities for children to connect, care for and appreciate the natural world.
Model appropriate behaviors and conversation within the class, guide child behaviors and address conflict by using effective behavior guidance strategies.
Supervise child interactions and play to ensure the health and safety of each child in your care. This includes helping children with resiliency during wet, cold and hot weather school days. Aiding children during diapering/toileting and mealtimes.
Observe children and gather data for bi-yearly child progress reports and conferences.
Abide by site partner rules and policies and ensure families and children are adhering to the policies established by the site partner.
Supervise and mentor Assistant Teachers, Fellows, Interns & Volunteers assigned to your class. You may be asked to contribute feedback about staff in your classroom during staff yearly evaluations.
Establish rapport and nurture relationships with families by communicating in a professional and effective manner, in-person, and through email and the ProCare application (secure communication software).
Orient new families before the start of the school year and if there are mid-year child additions to your class. Ensure the family feels comfortable before and during transition into the program. A check-in should occur 1 week and 1 month after enrollment.
Respond promptly to time-sensitive communications. Communications should occur in a timely manner (24 hrs after initial contact on weekdays and 48 hrs on weekends).
Maintain open and frequent communication with parents regarding their child’s development and experience during the school day.
Assist marketing staff with posting photos and stories to the ProCare application.
Participate in parent-teacher conferences.
Professionally interact and communicate with site partners and the general public during program hours.