Kindergarten Teacher

Job Title: Kindergarten Teacher – Nature-Based, Learner-Centered Program
Location: 14 S. Linn Street, Iowa City, Ia
Job Type: Full-Time

About Us:
Tamarack Discovery School is a progressive, non-traditional elementary school committed to experiential, place-based learning that centers on student curiosity, social-emotional growth, and community engagement. Our kindergarten program blends classroom time with outdoor exploration, encouraging students to develop academic, emotional, and interpersonal skills in both structured and open-ended environments.

Position Overview:
We are seeking a full-time Kindergarten Teacher who is passionate about child-centered education and excited to spend a significant portion of each day learning outdoors. This is not a traditional classroom role—it’s a chance to collaborate with a dedicated team, build strong relationships with students and families, and co-create learning experiences rooted in nature, play, and inquiry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and facilitate developmentally appropriate, student-centered learning experiences
• Spend significant time of the school day engaged in outdoor, place-based education (rain or shine!)
• Support and model social-emotional learning with a focus on connection, regulation, and community
• Collaborate regularly with fellow educators to plan interdisciplinary, creative learning units
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with students, colleagues, and families
• Maintain flexibility and a solutions-oriented mindset in a dynamic, evolving school environment
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment for all students

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field (teaching license is not required but is encouraged)
• Experience working with young children, especially in outdoor or alternative learning environments
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Commitment to inclusive, equitable, and relationship-based teaching practices
• Creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to try new things with a supportive, mission-driven team

To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position and how your values and experience align with our school’s mission.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person