Forest Preschool Lead Teacher

About the Role 

Are you passionate about nature-based education and creating transformative learning experiences for young children? The Forest School Lead Teacher at Kaleidoscope Forest School will lead our nature-based preschool program, immersing children in the beauty of Orcas Island while fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and responsive learning environment. This role is perfect for someone who thrives outdoors, embraces child-led learning, and is committed to sustainability, equity, and early childhood best practices. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead outdoor learning: Plan and facilitate daily nature-based activities, ensuring alignment with our Outdoor Nature-Based (ONB) curriculum and early childhood best practices (e.g., project-based and emergent curriculum). 

• Embody our philosophy and Foundational Principles, including: 
  

  • Nature immersion and flow learning (child/interest-led, informed by nature). 

  • Inquiry-based teaching and documentation of emergent curriculum. 

  • Place-based education, compassion scaffolding, and positive reinforcement. 

• A student-to-teacher ratio of 6:1, allowing opportunity for individual empowerment, group bonding, and authentic play. 

• Collaborate and communicate: Work closely with families, co-teachers, and specialists to maintain open communication and respect cultural diversity. 

• Document progress: Track children’s development using Emergent Curriculum Observations (ECO) and Teaching Strategies Gold (TSG) to inform future planning and ensure consistency in pedagogical implementation. 

• Ensure safety and compliance: Maintain a safe, professional, and inclusive classroom culture while adhering to state and national early education regulations. 

• Lead with joy: Bring your unique gifts, talents, and expertise to inspire both children and colleagues, while remaining rooted in our shared values of resiliency, self-confidence, self-regulation, teamwork, and nature-connectedness. 

Ideal Candidate 

We’re looking for someone who: 

• Has experience in early childhood education or outdoor learning. 

• Is passionate about sustainability, nature-based education, and equity. 

• Thrives outdoors in all weather conditions and has strong behavior management skills. 

• Embraces child-led learning, collaboration, and continuous growth. 

• Values authentic play, moderate risk-taking, and sense of belonging for all. 

Why This Role is Special 

This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to shape young minds in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. You’ll work in a supportive, team-oriented environment where your creativity and passion are valued. Plus, you’ll enjoy: 

• $22–$25/hour (opportunity to earn up to $25!). 

• Health insurance, retirement benefits, and paid professional development. 

• Provided housing (with rent to be paid by the employee)—so you can fully immerse yourself in the Orcas Island lifestyle. 

Our Commitment to You 

We believe that great educators deserve support, respect, and opportunities to grow. This role is designed to give you the freedom to innovate, the tools to succeed, and the space to make a lasting impact on both children and the community. 

Ready to join us? 
If you’re excited about this opportunity to teach, learn, and grow in nature’s classroom, we’d love to hear from you! Let’s create something beautiful together. 

Compensation:  
For the lead forest teacher position on gorgeous Orcas Island, you’ll enjoy a $22–$25/hour wage DOE. This opportunity includes health insurance, retirement benefits, paid professional development support, and provided housing (with rent to be paid by the employee)—all in one of the most stunning places to live and work.