Forest School Float Support Teacher

Overview

We are a childcare program based out of the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum in Eliot, ME. Our Mission is to “keep kids muddy” which is accomplished by conducting our program fully outdoors in all weather types! Therefore, our philosophy is that “there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”

At Village Nest Cooperative we believe it takes a village to raise well-rounded naturalists and inspire future confidence in learning environments. Studies show that children who spend more time outside in unstructured settings are more confident in making decisions, working cooperatively, and thinking creatively.

We are passionate about raising youth to become environmental and social stewards. To live sustainably, children need to learn how to interact respectfully and safely with the natural world. Our teachers practice sustainability and environmental conscience throughout their lives. Environmental and social change, as well as activism, can only be possible if we inspire our smallest community members to have a voice and take action for change.

A Day in the Life

You will start the morning by joining a classroom where students and staff are playing and preparing for the day ahead. You will support the teaching team in a morning circle time and fuel the body up with a snack before beginning the morning work activities. Morning work activities will relate to the interests expressed through children’s play and the environment.

We strive to nurture children in a child-led emergent environment. The class will gather again for lunch and then settle into a peaceful nap time. After a nap, you will help students gather for an afternoon snack, pack up, and combine with the other classroom(s) for play and pick up. You may be asked to move between classrooms in order to support varying teaching teams.

• Supervise and engage with children, ages 2-7 years old, in aftercare activities, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
• Plan and implement nature-based and educational activities that align with our program's goals and curriculum.
• Foster positive relationships with children, encouraging their development through exploration and play.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding their child’s experience and progress through the Brightwheel App.
• Document activities and accidents/incidents.
• Collaborate with fellow staff members to create a cohesive and supportive team atmosphere.
• Perform first aid for cuts and scrapes and administer medication to children with medical conditions or allergies.
• Possibly change diapers of children between the ages of 2.5 to 5.
• Demonstrates a caring and compassionate attitude while engaging with children, maintaining strong verbal communication and listening skills to effectively interact with children and colleagues, and consistently exhibits patience, stamina, and organizational abilities to manage the dynamic needs of multiple children across various ages.

• Must obtain CPR and Adult and Infant First Aid certifications
• Lift and maintain 40 lbs, be on your feet for long periods of time, and run and physically endure being outside for 8 hours a day regardless of weather
• Have a GED or higher (BS or BA in Early Childhood Education is preferred)
• Preference will come to those with 1+ years of experience in education.
• Must be willing to complete 30 Hours of Professional Development training

• Hours:
  
  Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday 7am - 5pm
• Salary: $19 per hour
• Benefits: paid time off, paid training opportunities, gear stipend, etc.

• This offer is contingent upon successful completion of background checks and any other pre-employment requirements.
• A probationary period of 6 months will be observed to ensure mutual satisfaction and fit for the role.