Preschool Teacher

Nature Preschool Teacher

Job Summary

We are a small, nature-based preschool in Hunt Valley, Maryland, seeking a passionate and experienced full-time Preschool Teacher to join our team. This position includes 35–38 classroom hours per week, plus paid planning time.

Our ideal candidate is an enthusiastic educator who believes children learn best through exploration, play, and meaningful experiences in nature. You'll spend the majority of each day outdoors, guiding children through hands-on learning while fostering curiosity, creativity, independence, and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement engaging, child-centered learning experiences using an emergent curriculum approach.
• Create a nurturing, safe, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration and discovery.
• Lead daily outdoor learning experiences in all appropriate weather conditions.
• Foster children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through nature-based activities.
• Observe and document children's progress and communicate effectively with families.
• Build positive, respectful relationships with children, parents, and fellow staff members.
• Collaborate with teaching team members to develop curriculum, classroom activities, and school events.
• Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and compliance with licensing and safety standards.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and ongoing planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field required.
• Bachelor's (B.S.), Master's in Education (M.Ed.), or Montessori certification required.
• Previous early childhood teaching experience required.
• Experience implementing an emergent curriculum model.
• Passion for outdoor, nature-based education.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Creative, flexible, collaborative, and dependable.
• Compassionate and professional when working with children, families, and coworkers.

Requirements

• Early childhood teaching experience.
• B.S., M.Ed., or Montessori certification.
• Comfortable working outdoors for most of the school day in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to actively participate in outdoor play, hiking, gardening, and nature exploration.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and actively engage with young children throughout the day.
• Must successfully pass all required background checks and meet Maryland childcare licensing requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a nature-based, forest school, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, or play-based educational setting.
• Knowledge of environmental education and outdoor learning practices.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Benefits

• Full-time position with 35–38 classroom hours per week.
• Paid planning time.
• Supportive, collaborative teaching environment.
• Opportunity to inspire children through meaningful outdoor education.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Competitive compensation based on education and experience
• Paid gym meberships
• All outdoor gear- boots, coaats, shoes, etc paid for
• Monthly contribution to those independently insured

Apply Today

If you are an experienced early childhood educator who loves nature, values child-led learning, and enjoys spending your days outdoors helping young children grow and thrive, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today to join our dedicated nature-based preschool community.