Fenner Nature Preschool Lead Classroom Teacher

Fenner Nature Preschool is a State of Michigan licensed, nature-based preschool program managed by Fenner Conservancy, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The program makes use of child-directed learning in both indoor and outdoor settings with a provocation-based curriculum inspired by Reggio Emilia.

SUMMARY

The FNP Lead Teacher, reporting directly to the FNP Director, is responsible for direct instruction of students while applying best practices for their physical and emotional care including planning and implementing curriculum using emergent, nature-based and Reggio-inspired methods. The ideal candidate would carry a deep personal connection to nature and a desire to connect our young learners to the natural world. Fenner Nature Preschool staff must be willing to spend a significant amount of time outdoors, in all weather, with their students.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning and Directing (5%)

• Implement and evaluate center programs in alignment with licensing, mission and vision of the organization, and best practices outlined by the Natural Start Alliance and NAEYC standards.
• Participate in recruitment efforts for enrolling new families including open houses and outreach events.

Teaching and Evaluating (90%)

• Plan and deliver high-quality, child-directed curriculum to FNP students.
• Work with parents and families as the ‘first teachers’ of students.
• Provide ongoing developmental assessments and documentation for students in alignment with curriculum.
• Provide direct supervision, training, guidance, and leadership to FNP assistant teachers.
• Be responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of all children in the group.
• Make provisions in the classroom for children with special needs.
• Maintain a charming and inviting classroom environment.

Classroom and Facilities (5%)

• Conduct daily classroom and facility upkeep to maintain a hygienic environment.
• Conduct daily inspections of outdoor play areas for hazards. Additional Requirements:
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with staff, trustees, and volunteers.
• Project a professional image internally and externally.
• Participate in regularly scheduled family conferences, staff meetings, parent meetings, and other Fenner Nature Center functions as appropriate.
• Attend training sessions for blood-borne pathogens, CPR, 1st Aid, and other professional development opportunities as appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned. Environmental Conditions of Position: The majority of the work associated with this position will occur in the outdoor learning environment.

MISSION, VISION & VALUES

Mission: Connect the early learners of Lansing to nature through exploration, play, and discovery.

Vision & Values: At Fenner Nature Preschool, children are respected and treated as capable and competent individuals who learn through play. Families are seen as a child’s first teachers and are valued as partners. Teachers serve as advocates for the success of both children and their families. We value being interconnected within our community and both our indoor and outdoor environments serve as the third teacher.

How to apply:

To apply, please submit cover letter that addresses your interest in the position, along with your résumé and a list of three professional references and their contact information to:

Email: preschool@mynaturecenter.org