Nature Based Co-Teacher (preschool classroom)

Where curiosity deepens, imaginations expand and children discover the world around them.

Do you believe the preschool years are filled with creativity, exploration and meaningful growth?
Do you find joy in supporting young children as they build friendships, solve problems, ask big questions and develop confidence in themselves and their abilities?

First Roots – Wild Roots is seeking a warm, collaborative and reflective Nature Based Co-Teacher to join our 5-STAR nature-based early childhood program serving preschool-aged children.

Here, teaching is not just a job — it’s meaningful work that helps children develop a strong sense of self, connection to community and love of learning.

If you are passionate about early childhood education, nature-based learning and child-led exploration, we would love to meet you.

At First Roots – Wild Roots, our preschool classrooms are rooted in relationships, curiosity, play and connection to the natural world. Our educators create environments where children feel empowered to explore, create, problem-solve and grow.

You’ll be part of a team that believes:

• Children are capable, competent and deeply curious learners
• Relationships are the foundation of meaningful learning
• Nature inspires creativity, resilience and discovery
• Children learn best through play, exploration and hands-on experiences

What You’ll Do:

As a Nature Based Co-Teacher working with preschool-aged children, you’ll help create a responsive and engaging environment where children can confidently explore their interests, ideas and relationships.

Your role will include:

Building strong relationships

• Creating warm, respectful and responsive connections with children and families
• Supporting emotional regulation, problem-solving and social development
• Helping children feel safe, valued and empowered throughout their day

Supporting learning and development

• Planning developmentally appropriate experiences inspired by children’s interests, questions and emerging skills
• Encouraging creativity, language development, collaboration, critical thinking and independence
• Supporting children as they build confidence, self-help skills and a strong sense of belonging

Teaching through nature and play

• Leading outdoor exploration and nature-based learning experiences in all seasons
• Creating engaging indoor and outdoor environments filled with open-ended materials and opportunities for discovery
• Using nature as a foundation for inquiry, creativity and meaningful learning experiences

Observing and documenting learning

• Paying close attention to children’s growth, interests and developmental progress
• Documenting observations, projects and learning experiences
• Using observations to guide emergent curriculum aligned with Vermont Early Learning Standards

Being part of a collaborative team

• Working closely with co-teachers and program leadership
• Participating in professional development, reflective practice and staff meetings
• Contributing to a positive, supportive and relationship-centered workplace culture

We’re looking for educators who bring both skill and heart to their work.

Ideal candidates will have:

• Experience working with preschool-aged children or young learners
• Education in Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education or a related field preferred
• A passion for nature-based learning and emergent curriculum
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A calm, flexible and nurturing presence

And just as important…

• You enjoy being outdoors in all seasons
• You appreciate children’s creativity, curiosity and endless questions
• You can embrace the joyful unpredictability of preschool learning
• You bring warmth, humor, patience and kindness to your work each day

We believe that classrooms and workplaces thrive when all voices are welcomed and respected. We encourage applicants of all identities, backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Our Mission: We are a 5 STAR, nature focused early care and education program that views each child as an individual with a unique developmental profile. Through developmentally responsive outdoor programming, we serve children ages 6 weeks to 8 years. Our mission is to Achieve the highest level of professional development, Build a community where families feel connected and respected, and to cultivate sustainable environmental choices and business practices to support the health and well being of all who work and play here!

Our Purpose: These are our fundamental reasons for doing what we do. If these resonate with you, we'd love to hear from you!

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Relocation assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Early Childhood Education: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• CPR Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Pay: $43,120.00 - $49,360.00 per year

Work Location: In person