Fellowship in Nature-Based Early Education

Overview:

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network builds joyful communities of children and teachers connected to each other and their outdoor environments through discovery and play.  We believe that children are intrinsically motivated to learn, and that they do so by exploring the world around them. Our programs are located on the grounds of the Arnold Arboretum (Boston), Massachusetts Horticultural Society (Wellesley), Pine Banks Park (Malden), and Forbes House Museum (Milton). 

Fellow Role:

To assist with teaching children ages 2.9 through 5 years under the supervision of an experienced Lead Teacher(s) and Site Coordinator.

Schedule and Hours:

Teaching hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, September 7, 2023 through June 14, 2024.  Fellows are also expected to spend 5 hours/week on documentation, parent communication, supplies management, meetings, and professional development.  Our school year calendar is similar to Boston public schools.

Locations:

Arnold Arboretum (Boston), Massachusetts Horticultural Society (Wellesley), Pine Banks Park (Malden), and/or Forbes House Museum (Milton)

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Nurture the spirit and curiosity of each child while promoting respect and building community.  Use a nature-based and play-based approach with children.
• Meet with your supervising Lead Teacher on a regular basis and your Site Coordinator as needed
• Be responsible for the health and safety of each child.  This includes helping children stay warm and dry in rainy and cold weather, managing risk in an outdoor setting, and addressing conflict.
• Develop emergent curriculum based on the children’s interests and nature through the seasons
• Use daily written documentation on ProCare as a tool for parent communication and reflection
• Gracefully and professionally communicate with teachers, parents, and site partners
• Assist the Lead Teachers to provide additional supports for children with disabilities
• Complete all tasks required for state licensure in a timely manner
• Attend occasional evening/weekend trainings and professional development events
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Strong interest in nature-based early childhood education
• Curiosity about the natural world and ability to convey a sense of awe and wonder to the children
• Excited to teach outdoors in all kinds of weather. Traverse various kinds of terrain each day while carrying supplies
• Eager to develop strong classroom management skills
• Comfortable living in our busy “community house” together with three other Fellows
• Able to commit to the Fellowship for the duration of our 9-month school year, from September through June

How to Apply:

Email your resume and cover letter to Sarah.Besse@bopn.org.