Nature Preschool Teacher (Variable position)

The Nature Preschool Teacher aids the Nature Preschool Lead Teacher in maintaining a developmentally appropriate classroom for children ages 3 to 5. The Nature Preschool Teacher is responsible for the implementation of the philosophy and policies of Cleveland Metroparks Nature Preschool under the direction and guidance of the Nature Preschool Program Administrator and Director of Outdoor Experiences. The position is employed yearly with Cleveland Metroparks for the nine-month school year and may include summer hours.  

1. Assists the Lead Teacher in developing and implementing nature-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that reflect the needs of the children, the standards of early childhood education, and the mission of Cleveland Metroparks Nature Preschool.
2. Works with the Nature Preschool Lead Teacher to generate weekly lesson plans that focus on students' interests.
3. Works with the Nature Preschool Administrator to ensure that high quality programming and care for students is being provided.
4. Assists with daily tasks and the individual needs of the children such as receiving and aiding in dressing and undressing for outdoor play, snack preparations, cleaning, etc. Classroom settings include both an indoor classroom and an outdoor classroom. Leads children on hikes and assists with moving children between indoor and outdoor classroom setting locations.
5. Ensures the health, safety and well-being of students through site surveys and daily check-ins with students; develops and implements on-going evaluation methods designed to aid in the creation of individualized growth plans for each student that can be shared with parents; documents the learning and development that occurs in the classroom using a variety of methods for both internal and external use; and maintains clear communications with fellow staff, interns, students, and their families to achieve common goals and avoid potential conflicts.
6. Promotes a close relationship with parents through daily, weekly, and monthly communications through conducting regular meetings, phone calls, and parent conferences; and ensures families feel that their traditions, experiences, and individual needs are reflected through all aspects of the program.
7. Participates in Cleveland Metroparks Nature Preschool staff meetings and special events to ensure connection with the rest of the staff and families.
8. Performs related duties as assigned or apparent.