Nature-Based Preschool Educator

Looking for an opportunity to teach children outdoors? Roots Forest School is an outdoor preschool in McCall, Idaho. Nestled in the natural setting of Ponderosa State Park among Ponderosa Pines, Western Larches, Douglas Firs, and Aspens. Through child-led adventures, students receive a seasonally based educational experience, become connected to our local environment and community, and deepen their curiosity and gratitude for the natural world.

Our School
Roots Forest School is an innovative preschool program that immerses students in their place and the natural world, creating a sensory rich and developmentally appropriate learning environment for
young children. Through nature-based early childhood education, Roots Forest School fosters
curiosity, community, and imagination to inspire stewardship and empower life-long learners.
Roots Forest School is an active and caring community in itself and works to engage with the larger
communities of McCall and Valley County. Our staff members are passionate about their work and
about educating the broader community about the school’s philosophy and goals.
 

Job Opening
Preschool Co-Teacher
September 2023 – May 2024
Up to 32 hours per week, schedule TBD
Open until filled
 

Job Description
This teaching position will require the applicant to work with a co-teacher in implementing all aspects
of a nature preschool program. The applicant will work alongside the co-teacher in two different
preschool classes consisting of 12 students each, ages 3-5 years old. The majority of the three-hour
class time is spent outdoors in all seasons.  On class days, the teacher is required to arrive one hour prior to class for set up and daily preparations, and stay one hour after class for clean up and documentation. Additionally, the applicant will participate in weekly planning meetings and monthly staff meetings.

Essential Duties
● Assist with morning preparations, afternoon clean-up, and daily tasks to maintain our forest
classroom, such as clearing snow.
● Assist with planning and implementation of curriculum.
● Support child-centered play and learning by paying careful attention to each child’s natural
curiosity and interests.
● Be patient and understanding in support of children’s social and emotional development.
● Document students’ learning during class and use this documentation to help guide students’
learning and to plan instruction.
● Ensure the safety and well-being of students through attentive supervision and daily site
checks for hazards.
● Model a healthy relationship with and curiosity for the natural world.
● Be comfortable singing and telling stories.
● Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
● High school degree or equivalent
● Ability to work as part of a team
● Early childhood education background preferred
● Experience working with early learners
● Desire to work outdoors in all types of weather
● Ability to pass a background check
● CPR and First Aid certified (option to get this after hired)

To Apply
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to info@rootsforestschool.com.

To learn more about our school and local community, please see our school website, facebook page,
city website, and chamber of commerce.

Questions can be directed to our director Maura Goldstein at maura@rootsforestschool.com or via
telephone at 208.315.0925