Forest Preschool Guide

Lead teacher/forest school guide facilitates outdoor classes with children, often working closely with a co-teacher, parent volunteer, or intern (depending on the age of the children). Tasks include thoughtful curriculum design based on children’s emergent interests, on-going reflection about and assessment of children and the forest school program, and collaboration with other teachers and/or volunteers. Lead teacher will manage support staff and/or volunteers as needed. Lead teachers set the tone for learning as engaged, enthusiastic role models of nature-based education while maintaining a safe, positive atmosphere. Lead teachers are utilized for our forest preschool and forest school cooperative as well as with Summer Forest Friends, a licensed summer nature camp.

This position requires a blend of qualifications that span having sound knowledge about early childhood education as well as nature-based pedagogy. Candidates should possess curiosity, if not deep understanding, of the local ecosystem with a commitment to helping young children develop their ecological identities through inquiry and play. 

Position requires personal and programmatic reflection, collaboration with teachers and parents, open dialogue about children’s progress, and interfacing with Glen Meadows Retirement Community partners and residents. Position may also include writing content, providing data, or other supplemental information to assist in the grant-writing process. Specific targets and goals for grant tracking and evaluation may also be required.