1st Grade Teacher

First Grade Teacher – Two Rivers Farm School

Location: Aurora, Oregon
Position type: Full-time, 9-month school year (with optional summer camp opportunities)
Start date: Fall 2026

About Two Rivers Farm School

Two Rivers Farm School is a small, nature-based early childhood and elementary program rooted in curiosity, creativity, and connection. Our classrooms weave together traditional academics, outdoor learning, and the joyful rhythms of the seasons. Inspired by Waldorf, Montessori, and Finnish education principles, we nurture children’s natural love of learning through play, exploration, and meaningful work.

The Role

We are seeking a kind, imaginative, and grounded educator to join our growing team as our first grade teacher. The ideal candidate delights in childhood, values community, and believes in guiding learning through wonder and relationship rather than rigid structure.

The first grade year at Two Rivers Farm School is a special bridge between early childhood and the wider world of academics. The teacher will introduce foundational literacy and numeracy through story, art, movement, and nature-based experiences, while continuing to honor the developmental needs of six- and seven-year-olds for play, rhythm, and connection to the natural world.

Responsibilities

• Teach a first-grade curriculum (language arts, math, nature study, art, and movement) using our provided materials, with the freedom to modify lessons based on your students’ needs
• Foster a classroom environment rooted in empathy, curiosity, and respect
• Collaborate closely with the preschool and kindergarten teachers to ensure continuity and community across the grades
• Communicate regularly with families with warmth, honesty, and partnership
• Participate in weekly team meetings, seasonal festivals, and community events
• Be open to learning about and integrating Two Rivers Farm School’s educational philosophy and methods
• Participate in training and ongoing mentorship with the Head of School

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of classroom teaching experience required (early elementary strongly preferred)
• A bachelor’s degree is required. A teaching credential is preferred but not required. Equivalent experience, training, and demonstrated excellence in working with children will be strongly considered
• Deep respect for children and the belief that all children are good inside
• Familiarity with or interest in Waldorf, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or nature-based education
• Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to a small, evolving school environment
• Eagerness to grow professionally through reflection, mentorship, and shared learning

What Makes This Position Different

We want to be transparent: our salary may not match some larger schools in the area. What we do offer is what many teachers are searching for:

• Small class sizes and the ability to truly know each child
• A close, collaborative, and supportive teaching team
• Professional trust and creative freedom, with no rigid scripts or boxed-in teaching
• Time and space to teach with depth, beauty, and intention
• A stunning farm setting that naturally supports calm, grounded learning
• A school community that genuinely values teachers and is committed to growing compensation as the program grows
• The possibility of affordable housing on the property, offering a unique opportunity to live within the school’s land and community

Compensation & Benefits

Annual salary: $35,000–$45,000 (9-month school year), based on experience

Additional opportunities for:

• Summer camp teaching (additional pay)
• Tuition discount for enrolled children
• Paid school holidays and breaks following the academic calendar

At Two Rivers Farm School, we strive to honor teachers with professional respect, creative freedom, and a community of colleagues who support and inspire one another. As our school grows, so will our capacity to grow compensation alongside it.

To Apply

Please send a letter of interest, résumé, and a short statement about your teaching philosophy to info@tworiversfarmschool.com

We kindly ask that applicants do not use AI tools to generate their application materials. We are genuinely interested in getting to know your authentic voice, experience, and perspective.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: In person