Part Time Lead Toddler/Preschool Teacher
About Boston Outdoor Preschool Network BOPN:
Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (BOPN) is an impactful community that connects children, families, and teachers to nature and one another. BOPN is a growing organization that offers its teachers a generous tuition discount, small class sizes, and a breathtakingly beautiful work environment. Our nontraditional school environment offers teachers a respite from the noise and chaos of the traditional classroom and an opportunity to rediscover the joy of working with children. A hallmark of BOPN’s programs is the happiness that our teachers and youth bring to the program each day.
Overview:
We build joyful communities connected to each other and to their outdoor environments through discovery and play. We believe that children are intrinsically
motivated to learn, and that they do so by exploring the world around them. This is the right opportunity for an experienced nature-based early childhood educator who enjoys teaching outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
As a lead teacher, you will move seamlessly between guiding, observing, and playing alongside the children as they hone their gross motor skills while jumping off logs; fire up their imaginations cooking in a mud kitchen; develop the ability to classify by collecting natural items such as acorns; expand their STEM knowledge building forts; and sharpen their fine motor skills creating art projects! Under your guidance, the children will foster deep, joyful interaction as they laugh together and develop authentic connections.
Position Description:
Locations: Boston, Milton, Malden, Sherborn, and Sudbury (we will let you know which positions are currently open at your preferred location)
Hours: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Teachers also receive 5 hours/week of planning time, for a total of 20 hours/week.
Calendar: September through June, with breaks and holidays similar to public
schools.
Compensation: Salaried position at a rate equivalent to $23 - $27/hour, with paid time off for breaks and holidays
Position Responsibilities:
Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Use a nature-based and child-centered approach. Nurture the spirit and curiosity of each child while building strong relationships with parents and children.
Parent Communication: Maintain open and regular communication with parents regarding their child's development and experiences in the program. Participate in parent-teacher conferences and events.
Team Collaboration: Engage in collaborative planning sessions with your colleagues. Learn the strengths of your co-teachers and create a classroom environment that best utilizes these skill sets.
Documentation: Use photos and stories as a tool for communication, reflection, and new learning. Monitor each child’s development and progress.
Professional Development: Meet with a coach and your supervisor. Attend occasional staff meetings, professional development, and special events.
Safety: Be responsible for the health and safety of each child. This includes helping children stay comfortable in rainy and hot weather, managing risk in an outdoor setting, and addressing conflict.
Leadership: Supervise high school youth workers and college interns.
These essential functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other job-related duties as required.
Position Requirements:
Experience in early childhood education, nature education, or a related field
Willingness to acquire EEC assistant licensure prior to employment
Strong classroom management skills and ability to maintain a safe learning environment
Communicate easily with children, family, and colleagues
Critical thinker who is able to problem solve
Adaptable, proactive and willing to take initiative
Passion for environmental education and anti-bias education
Delights in the wonders of nature
Embrace a wide variety of weather conditions as unique and interesting, part of the ebb and flow of the natural rhythm and seasonal changes
Humble and knowledgeable of one’s own limitations
Eagerness to learn and continually improve
How to Apply:
Email us for next steps!
Additional Information:
Successful reference and background checks are required.
Candidates who add to our diverse community are encouraged to apply.
Boston Outdoor Preschool Network is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
