What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nature + Play Based Teacher position at Acorn To Oak?
Do you believe childhood should be full of wonder, discovery, and joy? At Acorn to Oak, we provide a unique blend of learning rooted in nature, play, creativity, and kindness and we’re looking for dedicated daycare and preschool teachers to join our team!
About Us
Serving children ages 0–5, our program combines the best of nature-based exploration and play-based learning, with inspiration from Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia philosophies. Our team of daycare teachers and preschool teachers make a difference each and every day!
Who We’re Looking For
- Full-Time Infant Teachers
- Full-Time Substitute Teachers who support classrooms across our community
Whether you’re leading circle time under the trees, introducing sensory activities, or helping little ones plant in the garden, you’ll be part of a supportive childcare team that values collaboration, creativity, kindness, and growth.
Why You’ll Love Working at Acorn to Oak
Supportive Team Culture
- Collaborative co-teaching model where you’re rarely alone in the classroom
- Regular check-ins and open door admin support
- A team of substitutes so you can take time off without stress
Better Ratios, Bigger Impact
- Higher teacher ratios than licensing requires = more quality time with kids
Growth & Community
- Paid professional development days each year
- Staff socials and things like a staff book club
- Fun community events like our Harvest Festival and River Cats nights
Beautiful Learning Environments
- Indoor/outdoor classrooms designed for hands-on exploration
- Natural materials and spaces that inspire creativity
- New, weekly curriculum materials provided for learning
What You’ll Do
- Create a warm, safe, and engaging environment for children
- Develop a play-based, nature-inspired curriculum with influences from Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia
- Build strong relationships with children, families, and your teaching team
- Be part of the daily rhythm: stories, songs, outdoor adventures, meals, naps, and play!
What We’re Looking For
Required:
- 12 Early Childhood Education (ECE) units (Child Development, Child/Family & Community, Curriculum)
- At least 1 year of experience in a licensed childcare, preschool, or daycare setting
- Health and safety clearances (TB, immunizations, CPR/First Aid, etc.)
- Energy, flexibility, and ability to lift up to 40 lbs while fully engaging with children
Preferred:
- AA or BA in Early Childhood Education or related field
- 1 years of preschool or daycare teaching experience
Ready to Grow With Us?
At Acorn to Oak, teachers aren’t just caregivers- they’re community builders, play advocates, and partners in every child’s journey. If you’re excited to make an impact while working in a joyful, supportive, and nature-rich preschool setting, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and join us in growing the next generation at Acorn to Oak!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have at least 12 Units of Early Childhood Education classes?
- Do you have at least 3 units of Infant/Toddler classes?
- Why do you want to work at Acorn to Oak?
- What age group are you most interested in working with?
- Are you fully vaccinated against COVID-19? If not, please share your reason why.
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $22