Reggio Preschool Lead Teacher

Preschool Teacher – The Nest Community School (Spokane, WA)

About The Nest:

At the Nest Community School, we believe that a school can only be a good place for children if it is also a good place for teachers. Our commitment to exceptional pay and benefits ensures that our educators feel valued and motivated. We foster a collaborative and reflective community, where teachers are encouraged to engage in ongoing learning and professional development. Our unique approach allows educators the freedom to study and explore stimulating topics alongside their students, inspiring curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. At The Nest, we prioritize the well-being and growth of our teachers, knowing that their success directly translates to the success and happiness of our students.

Join our Reggio-inspired early learning team dedicated to building a beautiful community for children and families to grow together. With two South Hill locations, we have plenty of room to spread our wings. If you have a passion for nature and a love for teaching, come and join our team!

We believe diverse voices strengthen our community.
Educators who are LGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous, or People of Color, from religious minority backgrounds, bilingual or multilingual, neurodivergent, or from historically underrepresented cultures and communities are strongly encouraged to apply. We are committed to creating a workplace where all teachers feel seen, supported, and empowered to bring their full selves to the work of early childhood education.

About the Role:
Preschool teachers at The Nest hold and guide a classroom community of children ages 2.5–5 through hands-on, emergent curriculum rooted in children’s interests and developmental needs. Teachers collaborate in small teaching teams and maintain close, respectful relationships with children and families. This position includes full-time classroom hours, 4+ hours of curriculum planning and reflection, observation and documentation, and participation in team planning meetings and school events.

This role is best suited for someone who is highly professional and passionate about early childhood education, delighted by children's curiosity and innovation, learns from children and along with children rather than only seeking to teach to children, comfortable being outside in all seasons, skilled at guiding children through conflict with empathy, and eager to reflect, learn, and grow.

Responsibilities include:

• Providing responsive, respectful care and creating safe, inclusive learning environments
• Designing developmentally appropriate, emergent curriculum and invitations based on children's ideas
• Participating in collaborative team planning and documentation work
• Observing, documenting, and reflecting on children’s development and play
• Supporting children’s social and emotional growth through connection and co-regulation
• Guiding conflict using developmentally appropriate strategies (not behavior charts, time outs, or rewards)
• Partnering with families to build consistent support between home and school
• Participating in school-wide events, professional development, and community gatherings
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and beautiful classroom environment

Minimum Requirements (per DCYF guidelines):

• Must meet DCYF Early Childhood Teacher qualifications (MERIT verified)
• Must pass a DCYF background check and maintain current training in CPR/First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens, Food Handlers
• Completion of STARS 30-hour Basic Training (or equivalent) within first 6 months
• TB test, proof of MMR immunization, and negative portable background check
• Must be 18 years of age or older

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in an early childhood classroom setting
• Familiarity with Reggio Emilia, RIE, Montessori, or emergent curriculum models
• Strong understanding of social-emotional development and brain-based teaching practices
• Collaborative spirit and willingness to learn, unlearn, and reflect with others
• Creativity, flexibility, and a sense of humor

Schedule & Compensation:
Full-time, Monday through Friday
Wages are among the highest in Spokane County and based on experience and education. All positions include paid planning time, sick leave, PTO, and professional development.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Work Location: In person