Zoo School Elementary Teacher (Kindergarten) [Full-Time]

San Antonio Zoo•San Antonio, TX

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Kindergarten Teacher is responsible for designing and delivering a high-quality, nature-based elementary program at Zoo School. This role blends strong instructional practices with experiential, outdoor learning to support the whole child. Zoo School Elementary currently serves Kindergarten and 1st grade students and is expanding as part of a growing K–5 program. As a Zoo School Elementary Teacher, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by: Instruction and Curriculum: Plan and deliver engaging, TEKS-aligned instruction in literacy, math, and interdisciplinary content areas guided by mission, principles and practices for quality elementary programs and the San Antonio Zoo Design inquiry-based lessons that integrate student interests with academic learning goals Utilize a mix of whole group, small group, and hands-on learning experiences Incorporate outdoor, place-based learning opportunities into daily instruction Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners Model and promote stewardship of the natural world Support Zoo-wide initiatives and maintain a strong commitment to the San Antonio Zoo mission Teaching and Evaluating: Monitor student progress through observation, documentation, and formative assessments Use data to guide instruction and support individual student growth Maintain student records and contribute to progress reporting and conferences Assure compliance with all relevant governmental rules and regulations. Be aware of and responsive to best practices within the education profession. Creating Community Create a safe, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment that fosters curiosity, independence, and confidence Support student social-emotional development alongside academic growth Facilitate smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor learning environments Collaborate with fellow teachers and leadership to develop and refine the Zoo School Elementary model Contribute to curriculum development aligned with the school’s nature-based philosophy Support the expansion of the program into additional elementary grade levels Participate in team meetings, professional development, and school initiatives Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and classroom experiences Build strong, positive relationships with families and caregivers Support family involvement in school events and learning experiences

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Early Childhood, Elementary Education, or related field
Teaching certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)
Experience teaching PreK, Kindergarten or early elementary students
At least 2 years of experience working with young children in early childhood (ages 3–5) or elementary classroom settings
Knowledge of TEKS and/or and standards-based planning
Strong classroom management and organizational skills
Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Comfort working outdoors in various weather conditions
Knowledge of, aptitude for, and enthusiasm for learning basic natural history/ecology concepts
Must be available Monday through Friday, with the ability to occasionally work weekends, holidays and after-hour assignments
Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening, background check, and TB test.

Nice To Haves

Experience with inquiry-based, project-based, or nature-based learning preferred

Responsibilities

Plan and deliver engaging, TEKS-aligned instruction in literacy, math, and interdisciplinary content areas guided by mission, principles and practices for quality elementary programs and the San Antonio Zoo
Design inquiry-based lessons that integrate student interests with academic learning goals
Utilize a mix of whole group, small group, and hands-on learning experiences
Incorporate outdoor, place-based learning opportunities into daily instruction
Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners
Model and promote stewardship of the natural world
Support Zoo-wide initiatives and maintain a strong commitment to the San Antonio Zoo mission
Monitor student progress through observation, documentation, and formative assessments
Use data to guide instruction and support individual student growth
Maintain student records and contribute to progress reporting and conferences
Assure compliance with all relevant governmental rules and regulations. Be aware of and responsive to best practices within the education profession.
Create a safe, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment that fosters curiosity, independence, and confidence
Support student social-emotional development alongside academic growth
Facilitate smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor learning environments
Collaborate with fellow teachers and leadership to develop and refine the Zoo School Elementary model
Contribute to curriculum development aligned with the school’s nature-based philosophy
Support the expansion of the program into additional elementary grade levels
Participate in team meetings, professional development, and school initiatives
Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and classroom experiences
Build strong, positive relationships with families and caregivers
Support family involvement in school events and learning experiences