Part Time Lead Preschool Teacher-Nature-Based

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network

Part Time Lead Preschool Teacher

School Year 2023 – 2024  

About Boston Outdoor Preschool Network:

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. 

A Day in the Life as a Lead Preschool Teacher: 

Every morning outside brings something new!  In winter, you may find branches adorned in their whitest attire reaching out open arms in welcome during morning circle. The Forbes House Museum provides a magical backdrop for transformative play for the mixed ages and interests of the students.  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 tutelage, the children will foster deep, joyful interaction as they laugh together and develop authentic connections. 

Lead Preschool Teacher:

We are looking for a lead preschool teacher for our inaugural school year class in Milton, MA. The ideal candidate demonstrates proactive behavior in forming routines & practices that will shape the unique feel of our Forbes House Museum program. They value relationships & will easily integrate with the Milton community.  Grounded in a love of children and the outdoors, the lead preschool teacher connects kids to each other and nature through discovery and play.

Position Description:

• Schedule: Two to five mornings a week
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Location: 100% outdoors at Forbes House Museum, Milton, MA
• Calendar: December through June, with breaks and holidays aligned with public schools.  We also offer a separate summer program in July and August.
• Compensation: Salaried position at a rate equivalent to $24 - $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.
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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 teacher 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 your resume and cover letter to [email protected]

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.