SMNS is hiring!

Forest School Teacher- PRESCHOOL 2022-2023 school year

We believe children are intrinsically motivated to learn and that they learn best in the early years when they are outside exploring, playing, and asking questions. We are looking for an enthusiastic assistant teacher who can play along with our students, helping them to discover their rich imaginations as well as their questions about the natural world.

The Forest School Teacher position will be part-time for the preschool morning program on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays from 8:45 am – 2:15 pm.

This opportunity is open newbie forest school teachers, experienced teachers and those seeking to learn more about education and forest school. You will be working alongside an experienced SMNS head teacher. Must have experience working with children 3-6 years old. An interest in education and related fields is preferred. A love of the natural world and ability to teach outside year-long is a must.

While having nature knowledge is not a requirement, we do ask that you ask questions about the natural world and research the answers. That way you add to your nature knowledge as the year progresses. We use a nature immersion, reggio emilia inspired emergent curriculum. Offerings and prompts are given as inspiration. They don’t often have a set outcome in mind because we anticipate that the child will bring their own ideas to play ideas and projects.

The flow of the day is as follows:

• Students arrive, check in and Hello song
• Exploration/ free play/ art offering or some other offering
• Sit spots
• Snack & Story
• Exploration/ free play/ offering
• Songs & Good bye

Pay is $25-30 / hour depending on experience. We are an inclusive community and welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds. Send resume and cover letter to Mary Clair Sonneman, SMNS Director, at info@southmountainnatureschool.com