Preschool Lead Teacher

Position Summary:

At Cairn Hill Nature Preschool, we believe in nurturing the whole child—head, heart, and hands—through a Waldorf-inspired curriculum integrated with nature-based experiences. We’re seeking a warm, creative, and collaborative teacher to join our vibrant team and guide our youngest learners through meaningful, play-based, and outdoor-rich learning.

Key Responsibilities:

Curriculum & Planning

• Partner with the Preschool Director and colleagues to thoughtfully implement the Cairn Hill Curriculum, weaving together Waldorf early childhood practices with nature education and aligning with Massachusetts early learning standards.
• Develop weekly and daily lesson plans inspired by seasonal rhythms, nature exploration, and children’s emerging interests, with support from the Cairn Hill Curriculum Guide and team input.
• Maintain a harmonious balance of Waldorf-inspired activities (circle time, stories, songs, art, music) alongside nature, sensory exploration, and age-appropriate literacy, math, and STEM experiences.

Child-Centered Support

• Build strong, respectful relationships with each child and their family, honoring each child’s background, developmental journey, and unique needs.
• Conduct regular observations and informal assessments to support individual growth; refer families to additional resources when needed.
• Encourage the development of fine and gross motor skills, self-help skills, and social-emotional confidence through both indoor and outdoor activities.

Nature Engagement

• Enthusiastically lead children in exploring nature—rain, snow, or sunshine—exploring the surrounding woods and fostering a deep love and respect for the natural world.
• Comfortably spend extended periods outdoors, ensuring children are safe, engaged, and dressed appropriately for the weather.
• Supervise children closely to promote safe exploration on trails and during nature-based play.

Community & Communication

• Use positive, respectful guidance and communication to support children’s social and emotional development.
• Foster a warm, inclusive classroom community where children and families feel valued and welcomed.
• Maintain open communication with families, including regular updates, informal conversations, and a weekly newsletter prepared during rest time on Fridays.

Classroom Environment & Operations

• Participate in the thoughtful arrangement of the classroom, creating inviting, clutter-free, and aesthetically pleasing spaces that reflect Waldorf principles.
• Support the upkeep and care of both indoor and outdoor learning environments, including gardens and natural play areas.
• Contribute to the planning and celebration of seasonal festivals and community events (approximately four per year).
• Attend all staff meetings, open houses (at least two annually), and occasional outreach events to share our mission with prospective families.
• Engage in continuous professional development as required by EEC and in alignment with the Cairn Hill Curriculum Guide.

Professionalism & Growth

• Collaborate with the Preschool Director to set and work toward three annual professional goals.
• Participate in a review process that includes quarterly and annual review meetings to reflect on accomplishments and areas for growth.
• Maintain current EEC certification and uphold the values, professionalism, and philosophies of Cairn Hill Nature Preschool.

Required Skills:

• Certification in First Aid and CPR (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and sustain respectful relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• Clear and effective oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage classroom rhythms, documentation, and communications.
• Commitment to ethical practices, collaboration, and a team-oriented approach.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Meets EEC licensing requirements to teach preschool.
• Holds (or willing to obtain) First Aid and CPR certification.
• Experience in or commitment to nature-based and Waldorf-inspired early childhood education.

Benefits

• 3 weeks vacation annually that aligns with school vacations (February, April and a week in July)
• 10 paid sick days
• 2 personal days
• 13 holidays and 1 week of holiday pay between Christmas and New Year’s
• 403 (B) plan with employer contribution
• Health and Dental Insurance

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