Early Childhood - Assistant Teacher, Nature-Based Preschool

Summary

Located on our 3-acre outdoor “classroom” and among the majestic woods and streams of Wolf Trap National Park, the Eastern Ridge School is seeking a full-time Assistant Teacher for our year-round nature-based preschool program working with 3-5 year olds. Candidates who have direct experience and/or are engaged in continuing education in the forest school approach, nature-based early childhood education, Reggio Emilia and the Project Approach are encouraged to apply.

Duties

Under the guidance and supervision of Lead Teacher, the Assistant Teacher will:

• Support children with hands-on project based work in their outdoor “classroom” which includes a sprawling meadow, large vegetable garden, and a secluded wooded area.
• Support children while hiking, exploring, and playing at Wolf Trap National Park.
• Enthusiastically support children in outdoor exploration during all seasons and most weather conditions, as outdoor play and learning is a core element of our pedagogy.
• Support children through daily routines and support their growing independence with self-help skills such as dressing, toileting and mealtimes.
• Support the functioning of the class and the school as a whole through assisting with materials prep and clean up, documentation as needed, and helping to keep classroom spaces and materials organized and sanitary.

Requirements

• Has the ability to model and foster the social-emotional, sensory, motor and intellectual development of young children through collaborative play and project-based learning.
• Has respect for the lives of all living creatures and wildlife.
• Is a team player
• Able to communicate effectively and professionally with lead teachers and parents.
• Can compassionately support active children, and children with varied learning styles and needs
• Respects children’s need to get muddy, messy and wet.
• Shows flexibility, teamwork, and willingness to support children and teachers throughout the school in addition to the regularly assigned group.
• Must have experience with preschool aged children and be willing to have their background checked.
• Is able to lift up to 40 lbs., spend considerable time standing and bending daily, and has adequate mobility to cover distances quickly and easily on various terrains (grassy, hills, roots, trails, mud).

Benefits

• This is an hourly, full-time, year-round position, with a pay rate of $18.50/hour. Hours 8:15-3:15, 4:15, or 5:15, to be discussed. Weekly staff meeting until 4:30.
• Generous paid time off totaling approximately 6 weeks of paid leave annually; health, vision, and dental benefits, cell phone stipend, opportunity to work as part of a supportive team of educators passionate about outdoor, nature-based early childhood education.