What are the responsibilities and job description for the Play Scientist/ Preschool Teacher position at Kids Discovery Museum?
Play Scientist (Preschool Teacher)
AM Preschool Teacher AND PM / Full-Day Preschool Teacher
Position Type: Part-Time (AM) and Full-Time (PM / Full Day)
Reports To: Executive Director
Location: Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu) – Bainbridge Island, WA
About Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu)
Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu) is an award-winning children’s museum where curiosity leads the way—truly the coolest classroom in Kitsap County. Our preschool program is inquiry-based, play-centered, and neurodiversity-affirming, offering young learners the freedom to explore, experiment, and discover through hands-on STEAM experiences.
As KiDiMu expands from part-day preschool into a full-day early learning program, we are growing our teaching team and actively moving through the Washington State DCYF licensure process.
Positions Available
We are currently hiring two Play Scientists (Preschool Teachers) with complementary strengths:
AM Preschool Teacher (Part-Time)
Schedule: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This role is ideal for an educator with a Montessori-aligned or Montessori-informed approach, who enjoys calm, intentional mornings that emphasize independence, purposeful work, and child-led learning.
PM / Full-Day Preschool Teacher (Full-Time)
Schedule: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This role supports KiDiMu’s transition into full-day programming and is well suited for an educator who is comfortable with longer-day rhythms, program planning, and supporting DCYF compliance, documentation, and systems during the licensure process.
Position Summary
The Play Scientist plans, facilitates, and documents daily learning experiences for KiDiMu’s preschool program. Educators create safe, inclusive, developmentally appropriate environments that foster curiosity, confidence, collaboration, and joyful learning.
Our AM and PM programs currently operate as license-exempt, nonprofit preschool offerings. The full-day program is in active pursuit of DCYF licensure, and all educators follow best practices aligned with WAC 110-300 Early Learning Program Rules.
Primary Responsibilities
Curriculum & Instruction
* Design and implement sensory-rich, inquiry-based curriculum rooted in play, STEAM, and Washington State early learning standards
* Integrate hands-on exploration, art, movement, music, and storytelling
* Observe and document children’s interests and developmental progress; adapt learning experiences accordingly
* Supervise children during activities, transitions, and free play to ensure safety and well-being
Classroom Environment & Guidance
* Create and maintain inclusive, developmentally appropriate learning spaces
* Foster a culture of belonging, empathy, creativity, and problem-solving
* Model emotional regulation, respectful communication, and flexible thinking
* Support social-emotional development through positive, relationship-based guidance
Family & Community Engagement
* Build strong, trusting relationships with families and colleagues
* Share classroom updates, documentation, and messages using Brightwheel
* Welcome family and community participation in special events and learning experiences
Program Administration, Camps & Compliance
* Maintain accurate attendance, documentation, and communication through Brightwheel
* Support classroom organization, supply management, and lesson planning
* Plan and lead part-day or full-day camps during Bainbridge Island School District (BISD) holidays, conference days, and school breaks, as scheduled
* PM / Full-Day role: assist with DCYF-aligned documentation, routines, and compliance preparation during the licensure process
* Provide feedback and observations that inform museum-wide educational programming
*Understand and excel in technology using systems like Canva, Amazon Photos, Spotify, Google Slideshow, Google Sheets, Google Docs, Monday project management, Square, Instagram, and Facebook.
Professional Collaboration
* Collaborate closely with the Executive Director and museum staff
* Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development
* Approach challenges with creativity, flexibility, and a growth mindset
Qualifications
Required:
* Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
* Experience working with preschool-aged children in play-based or inquiry-driven environments
* Strong understanding of child development and positive behavior support strategies
* CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
* Successful background and reference checks
* Washington State ECE Certificate
* Experience in inclusive, trauma-informed, or neurodiversity-affirming settings
Preferred:
* Montessori training or experience (especially for AM role)
* Experience supporting licensing, compliance, or program expansion (especially for PM / Full-Day role)
* Familiarity with Brightwheel or similar early learning management platforms (or willingness to learn)
Physical Requirements
* Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and rearrange classroom materials or furniture
* Ability to engage in active play, standing, bending, and movement throughout the day
* Comfort working in a dynamic, stimulating museum environment
* Ability to work alongside service animals
Compensation, Time Off & Benefits
* Hourly Rate: $22–$28 DOE
* Paid sick time in accordance with Washington State law
* Paid time off (PTO)
* Professional development support
* Complimentary museum membership
To Apply
Please submit your résumé and a brief cover letter describing your teaching philosophy and why playful learning matters to you.
Email: [shea@kidimu.org]
Subject Line: *Play Scientist Application*
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $22.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Education:
- Bachelor's (Required)
Experience:
- preschool teaching: 3 years (Required)
Language:
- English and Spanish, Portuguese, French, or Italian (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- WA State Teacher Certification (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Bainbridge Island, WA 98110: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22 - $28