Lead Teacher — Nature-Based Preschool

About The Dewey School

Our school is located within the beautiful Canterbury Shaker Village, surrounded by fields, woods, trails, gardens, water, and opportunities for exploration.

Our philosophy is rooted in:

• Nature-based, outdoor learning
• Child-led and emergent curriculum
• Play as meaningful learning
• Reggio Emilia-inspired practices
• Building strong relationships and community
• Honoring each child's voice and ideas
• Curiosity, wonder, and connection

We believe inside and out is the third teacher, and we spend a meaningful portion of our days learning outdoors in all seasons.

The Position

We are seeking a Lead Teacher to join our preschool team.

Schedule: Monday–Friday
Hours: Full-time or part-time options available
Start Date: Flexible / ASAP
Pay: Based on experience, education, and qualifications

This position may be a wonderful fit for an early childhood educator who wants to work in a collaborative environment where there is room to be creative, follow children's interests, and spend time outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming, and nurturing classroom environment
• Support children's social-emotional development and growing independence
• Observe children and use their interests to help guide emergent curriculum
• Facilitate meaningful play, exploration, and hands-on experiences
• Spend significant time outdoors with children in all seasons
• Document children's learning and experiences
• Build strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborate with fellow teachers and contribute to our shared classroom community
• Participate in staff meetings, planning, and professional development
• Support the health, safety, and well-being of every child

We’re Looking For Someone Who Is

• Warm, patient, and genuinely enjoys young children
• Curious and open to following children's ideas
• Comfortable getting muddy, wet, and messy alongside children
• Excited about nature and outdoor learning
• A strong communicator and team member
• Dependable, responsible, and organized
• Comfortable working in a child-led, play-based environment
• Interested in observing children rather than directing every moment
• Willing to learn and grow alongside our team

Qualifications

Early childhood education experience is strongly preferred.

Applicants with an early childhood education degree, CDA, teaching credential, or other relevant education and experience are encouraged to apply.

We are also happy to consider candidates with a strong background working with young children who may bring other relevant experience, skills, or educational backgrounds to our community.

Why Dewey?

At Dewey, there is room to slow down, notice the small things, and truly get to know the children in your care.

You might spend the morning investigating mushrooms in the woods, building a shelter from fallen branches, reading beneath the Sky Tree, following a child's question about a tiny creature, or simply sitting together and watching the seasons change.

If you believe children are capable, curious, creative humans and that some of the best learning happens when we give them space to wonder we would love to hear from you.

Come grow with us.

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief introduction sharing why you are interested in joining The Dewey School to Alexis Matthews-Cheney at [email protected]

Pay: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32.0 – 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person