About the Role
Lead Teacher Responsibilities (include, but not limited to):
Establish a daily routine; create and maintain a healthy, safe, and positive environment for children
Support social-emotional learning and solution-finding opportunities using the Positive Discipline framework
Collaboration with other teachers and assistants in a shared classroom environment
Communicate with teachers about the child’s development and daily experiences
Collaborate with TNS staff to foster a sense of community and belonging
Implement daily practices and routines within the classroom and throughout the campus
Observe and document children’s progress in the areas of their social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive skills
Organize classroom materials and clean, disinfect, and sanitize the workspace to facilitating the learning process for each child
Help guide the child through self-directed activities, allowing the child to develop at their own pace
Foster a nurturing and stimulating non-competitive environment
Comfortability with teaching both indoors and outdoors
Commit to continued professional development in providing exemplary outdoor education to children
All applications will be reviewed confidentially and interviews will be conducted by the Head of School and/or Board Chair and the Board of Trustees.
After a careful review of applicants, the Search Committee will select semi-finalists who will be interviewed by Zoom. Finalists will be invited to a more comprehensive series of interviews. Ideally, a final selection will be made no later than August 1, 2023.
TNS will keep all applicants informed of their status throughout the process.
The Nature School of Central Indiana does not discriminate in their educational programs, hiring, or activities on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, sexual identity, age, religion, ability or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Requirements
This job is for you if you:
Are inspired by our mission and vision
Love children and supporting their development
Work collaboratively, positively, and professionally with all staff
Establish a rapport and build relationships with students and families based on trust
Set an excellent example for students by modeling honesty, accountability, understanding, tolerance, respect, love, and kindness
Multitask, keep calm under pressure, and treat everyone with respect
Maintain a positive attitude, flexibility, and a good sense of humor
Display excellent planning, communication, and organizational skills
Display strong conflict resolution skills
Maintain a safe and secure environment
Understand technology commensurate with program level requirements
Maintain the confidentiality of the school’s students, family, and staff
Display curiosity and desire to grow professionally
Train in, become familiar with, or be willing to learn about Montessori and Waldorf education
Have a commitment to high quality care and learning
Are a skilled classroom manager, inspiring children to be their best selves and coaching them through solution-finding processes
Delight in the details of maintaining a classroom space for children to thrive
Are a highly relational and effective communicator
Are able to multitask and manage a variety of supportive responsibilities
Have a positive attitude and are able to roll with a dynamic and creative organization
Care about equity, diversity, and social and environmental justice
Enjoy working in a progressive, relational, collaborative, and nature-loving team of dedicated and talented individuals
Education/Experience:
Valid Teaching License
Montessori or Waldorf Certification Preferred
Teachers working toward Montessori or Waldorf certification
Experience working with elementary-aged children and families in a group setting
CPR, First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens certified or be willing to obtain
Positive Discipline training, or willing to take
Anti-biased/Anti-racist training, or willing to take
Desired Skills and Abilities:
Strong communication skills with children and colleagues
Strong decision-making skills to respond to risk management, emergencies, or difficult situations
Ability and desire to support the classroom teacher and students
Ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally
Desired Behavioral Traits and Attitudes:
Leader, team player, fun, outgoing, passionate, nurturing, organized, flexible, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, and self-motivated. Passionate about TNS’s mission and environmentally concerned and aware.
About the Company
The Nature School of Central Indiana students follow their natural interests as they explore their world, discovering the interconnectedness of personal responsibility, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Students learn how to work interdependently and collaboratively, experiencing a transformative education as they grow into the next generation of engaged, global thinkers who compassionately challenge the status quo. We strive to be a nurturing, diverse, and inclusive community.
Mission
The Nature School of Central Indiana: Changing the world for the better, one learner at a time.
Vision
The Nature School of Central Indiana approaches education with time-tested philosophies of Montessori and Waldorf education with a focus on nature-based learning, honoring the child as a whole, fostering a local community and global mindset, with a commitment to educational leadership and institutional longevity.