Teacher Nature-Based Early Childhood Center - Looking for Closers!

Summary

Are you interested in teaching young children and love gardening, walks in the woods, and being outdoors? We are looking for you!

A Place to Grow Three Rivers Wingate, NC is situated on 1.5 acres of forested outdoor classroom space which offers our children and teachers opportunities to explore the woods, garden, go for nature walks, and grow through experiential learning strategies. Be a part of the only nationally franchised nature-based early learning franchise at its first location in North Carolina!

Full time or Part time shifts beginning in Late August/Early September (examples include 6:30am-11am, 11 am-3 pm, and 2 pm-5:30 pm, split shift, or full time). Opportunity for candidates to be a key holder for opening and closing shifts. We have career pathways to support everyone from seasoned educators to high school students exploring the field and even those looking for a career change.  

At A Place to Grow Three Rivers Wingate, NC we have a clear vision: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented individuals want to educate young children and do their best in an environmentally sustainable work environment. We pride ourselves on providing high quality experiential learning opportunities through the hard work and dedication of our passionate and caring educators. A Place To Grow, LLC was recently chosen as the New Hampshire SBA Woman Owned Business of the Year and received an Environmental Champion award.  These awards exemplify our commitment to our diversity, inclusion and environmental sustainability.  

Duties

Our educators are trained to design and implement curriculum that meets the needs of a diverse group of young learners and supports their social emotional growth at every step.  Responsibilities will vary based on each candidate's background and may include supporting classroom teachers with daily activities, helping children calm their big emotions, or even wiping tears after a child is hurt.  A Place to Grow is a small school and our educators have the incredible opportunity to work with all classrooms and students across the school.

Closers are responsible for the following duties:

1. Safety & Security

• Conduct a final headcount and check that all children have been picked up.
• Check all rooms, bathrooms, and outdoor areas to ensure no one is left behind.
• Lock all entry and exit doors and windows.

2. Clean-Up & Sanitization

• Disinfect tables, chairs, and high-touch surfaces.
• Sanitize toys and learning materials used during the day.
• Clean and sanitize bathroom(s) and diaper changing stations.
• Sweep/vacuum and mop floors as needed.
• Empty all trash cans and diaper pails; replace liners.
• Wash dishes or load/unload dishwasher.
• Check laundry (bibs, cot sheets, etc.) and run as needed.

3. Food & Kitchen Area

• Dispose of any leftover food/snacks.
• Wipe down counters, tables, and chairs.
• Clean and sanitize food prep surfaces.
• Store all food properly.
• Check fridge/freezer temps and close doors securely.

4. Communication & Documentation

• Complete daily reports for each child (if applicable).
• Notify parents via app or communication log of any incidents or reminders.
• Log any incidents, accidents, or unusual events.
• Leave a note or update for the opening staff (if needed).

5. Supplies & Inventory

• Refill diapers, wipes, tissues, and other classroom supplies.
• Replenish paper towels, soap, toilet paper in bathrooms.
• Check art, cleaning, or curriculum supplies for low stock.
• Report any items that need to be reordered.

6. Maintenance Checks

• Report any broken toys, equipment, or hazards.
• Ensure all electronics (computers, tablets, projectors) are turned off.
• Turn off lights, fans, or A/C units as instructed.

7. Final Walkthrough

• Conduct a walkthrough of all rooms, including storage, office, kitchen, and bathrooms.
• Close blinds or curtains (if applicable).
• Ensure all appliances (coffee pots, microwaves) are off/unplugged.

Requirements

Requirements Prior to Hire

18 years old

HS Diploma or equivalent

Negative TB Test

Medical Report/Heath Questionnaire

Fingerprinting and a Background check are required (We pay the fee)

Be ready to share the joy of learning through play in a beautiful nature based setting!

Training Requirements after Hire

Complete First Aid and CPR training within the first 90 days after hire (We pay the fee)

NC DHHS Trainings

• Paid training upon successful completion of each course!
• Between 5-20 hours are required per year based on the applicant’s position, education level and years of verifiable experience.

Nice To Haves

Completion of EDU 119 -or- completion of Technical High School Education Program in Early Childhood Education

We are happy to train the right person, regardless of previous experience. Employees are eligible for free college tuition or Child Development Associate training.

Benefits

*Competitive salary based on years of experience and education

*Families First Work Environment with Flexible Schedules

*Three weeks paid time off

*Paid Trainings

*Opportunity for free or reduced community college courses in ECE

*Free Telehealth & Mental health medicine with 24/7 access to a doctor for free

*Career advancement opportunities