River Valley Nature School in Central Pennsylvania is hiring a lead K-2 teacher. RVNS is one of only a handful of schools offering nature immersion education beyond the preschool age. This is a unique opportunity for the experienced early grade school teacher who believes strongly in educating kids in nature!

K-2 Teacher at Progressive Nature School - 2021/2022 school year

Overview

River Valley Nature School (RVNS) is a child-centered, inquiry-based nature school in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. We are committed to empowering children to have their own voice and develop a life-long love of learning. 

Children learn primarily in an outdoor environment and have access to an in-town indoor classroom when weather is extremely inclement. River Valley Nature School guides children in their development as capable and confident individuals by focusing on the whole child. Using a curriculum that comes from the children's interests and passions, teachers facilitate academic development in areas including literacy, math, science, and social studies. Teacher-supported independent and group learning experiences encourage social and emotional development. Children learn in multi-aged groups serving ages 3-5, 5-7, and 8-10 in 2021-2022.

Job description

RVNS seeks a creative, enthusiastic full-time teacher to support the academic, social, and emotional growth of young learners exploring and discovering the world around them. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide nature-based education for children in kindergarten through second grade. Working with a team of teachers, the teacher will create an environment where children are challenged and inspired for the future. The successful candidate will demonstrate an understanding of the developmental needs of children ages 5-8  including academic skills, imaginative play, gross motor movement, and cultivating a deep connection to nature and the arts. Because there will be frequent periods of interaction with our 3-5 year old group, a candidate who is also skilled with 3-5 year olds is preferred. 

The ideal candidate will:

• Be passionate about educating children in nature. 
• Be self-motivated and self-directed with the flexibility to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Have strong leadership abilities and excellent interpersonal skills, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Be a skilled communicator, guided by a desire to listen to and speak compassionately with both children and adults.
• Feel comfortable and confident about meeting the needs of children outdoors in all seasons.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education or related field
• Three or more years experience as a class teacher; independently teaching a group of children 5 years old or older 
• Foreign language and/or music education experience a plus
• Certification in child first aid and CPR
• Must pass background check, child abuse clearances, and drug test before starting employment
• Physical Requirements: Regularly sit, turn, bend, reach, stand, walk, talk, hear, and interact with students and others. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Must be able and willing to spend most of the school day outside.

The teacher’s primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Work independently and with the teaching team to implement an engaging, developmentally appropriate program to meet social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of 5-8 year old children drawing on a variety of educational philosophies. 
• Develop daily lessons, circle times, celebrations, and outdoor adventures.
• Supervise students ages 3-8 in various settings including classrooms, outdoors, and field trips.
• Develop nature-based activities that will integrate science, math, literacy, and the arts while encouraging cooperative learning and social skills.

Work with teaching team to: 

• Observe and assist children in inquiry-based learning, formally reflecting with them during the week.
• Provide positive guidance to children in navigating their social interactions with peers and adults.
• Maintain strong interpersonal communication skills with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Attend staff meetings, professional development, and training sessions as requested.
• Willingness to participate in appropriate professional development and/or training.  
• Participate in open houses and community events to promote the school.

RVNS is committed to addressing issues of social justice, diversity, equity, and anti-bias education in our curriculum and in our community. Employees must be willing learners and participants in supporting this work.