Lead Preschool Teacher

Position : Preschool Lead Teacher

Location : Cairn Hill Nature Preschool at Camp Fire North Shore, Massachusetts

Reports to : Preschool Director

Salary : $50,000

Position Summary :

Cairn Hill Nature Preschool seeks a warm, creative, and collaborative Preschool Lead Teacher to join our team. Our program blends Waldorf-inspired early childhood education with a strong emphasis on nature-based learning, nurturing the whole child-head, heart, and hands. We believe in fostering meaningful relationships, curiosity, and respect for the natural world. The Lead Teacher will play a key role in delivering a curriculum that is rooted in seasonal rhythms, child-led exploration, and a balance of indoor and outdoor experiences.

Key Responsibilities :

Curriculum & Planning :

Partner with the Preschool Director and colleagues to implement the Cairn Hill Curriculum, which integrates Waldorf early childhood practices with nature education and aligns with Massachusetts early learning standards.

Develop weekly and daily lesson plans that are inspired by seasonal changes, nature exploration, and the evolving interests of the children.

Maintain a harmonious balance of Waldorf activities-such as circle time, storytelling, songs, and art-alongside nature exploration, sensory activities, and developmentally appropriate literacy, math, and STEM experiences.

Child-Centered Support :

Build and sustain respectful relationships with each child and their family, recognizing and honoring each child's unique developmental journey and background.

Conduct regular observations and informal assessments to monitor progress and provide individualized support as needed.

Encourage the development of motor skills, self-help skills, and social-emotional confidence through a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.

Nature Engagement :

Lead children in daily nature exploration-rain or shine-fostering a deep connection with the natural world.

Ensure children are safe, engaged, and appropriately dressed for outdoor learning, while promoting exploration and curiosity.

Supervise and support safe play on nature trails and during outdoor activities.

Community & Communication :

Use positive, respectful communication and guidance to support children's social and emotional growth.

Cultivate an inclusive and welcoming classroom community where children and families feel valued.

Maintain open lines of communication with families through informal conversations, regular updates, and a weekly newsletter prepared during rest time.

Classroom Environment & Operations :

Create and maintain an organized, clutter-free, and aesthetically pleasing classroom environment that reflects Waldorf principles.

Support the care and upkeep of both indoor and outdoor learning spaces, including gardens and natural play areas.

Contribute to the planning and celebration of seasonal festivals and community events, participating in at least four per year.

Attend staff meetings, open houses, and occasional outreach events to share the program's mission.

Engage in professional development aligned with the Cairn Hill Curriculum and EEC requirements.

Professionalism & Growth :

Collaborate with the Preschool Director to set and pursue three annual professional goals.

Participate in quarterly and annual review meetings to reflect on achievements and areas for growth.

Maintain current EEC certification and uphold the values, professionalism, and philosophy of Cairn Hill Nature Preschool.

Qualifications :

Meets EEC licensing requirements for preschool teaching.

Certification in First Aid and CPR (or willingness to obtain).

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Excellent organizational abilities.

Experience in or commitment to nature-based and Waldorf-inspired education.

Benefits :

Three weeks vacation annually, aligned with school breaks (February, April, and July).

Ten paid sick days, two personal days, and thirteen holidays, plus one week of paid time off between Christmas and New Year's.

403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution.

Health and dental insurance.

Employment is pending a background check.