Teva (Nature) Teacher, Early Learning Center

New York
SAR Academy – ELC /
Full-Time /
On-site
Early Learning Center Movement Teacher
SAR Academy, a Modern Orthodox, co-educational day school in Riverdale, NY, is seeking a passionate Teva Teacher to join our Early Learning Center team. The ideal candidate will have a deep appreciation for nature and a strong commitment to fostering children's connection with the natural world. This role involves working with children aged 2 years through kindergarten, facilitating outdoor learning experiences in our school garden and engaging and taking care of  the animals in our Early Learning Center. The Nature Teacher will play a crucial role in developing young minds, nurturing curiosity, and instilling a sense of wonder and respect for the environment and living things.

Responsibilities:
-Plan and implement developmentally appropriate nature-based curriculum activities for children aged 2 years through kindergarten.
-Lead outdoor exploration sessions in the school garden, encouraging children to observe, explore, and interact with the natural environment.
-Introduce children to basic concepts of gardening, including planting, watering, weeding, and harvesting, while fostering an understanding of the life cycle of plants.
-Supervise and facilitate interactions with animals in the Early Learning Center, ensuring the safety and well-being of both children and animals.
-Care for the animals throughout the year, including purchasing, feeding, and coordinating family visits for the animal’s well-being.
-Incorporate storytelling, songs, and hands-on activities to enhance children's understanding of the natural world and foster a love for nature.
-Create opportunities for sensory experiences, such as mud play, nature walks, and outdoor art projects, to stimulate children's senses and creativity.
-Collaborate with other teachers and staff to integrate nature-based learning experiences into the overall curriculum.
-Maintain the school garden and animal habitats, including watering plants, feeding animals, and ensuring a clean and safe environment.
-Communicate regularly with parents, update google site weekly inorder to provide updates on children's experiences and achievements in nature-based learning activities.
-Stay current with best practices in early childhood education and nature-based learning, participating in professional development opportunities as needed.

Qualifications:
-Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Environmental Science, or related field preferred.
-Previous experience working with young children in an educational setting, preferably with experience in nature-based education.
-Knowledge of child development principles and the ability to adapt activities to meet the needs of children at different developmental stages.
-Passion for nature and environmental stewardship, with a commitment to instilling these values in young children.
-Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and connect with children, parents, and colleagues.
-Patience, creativity, and a sense of humor, with the ability to maintain a positive and nurturing learning environment.
-Physical stamina and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
-CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification upon hire.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to inspire young children to develop a lifelong love for nature and the environment. If you are enthusiastic about connecting children with the natural world and nurturing their curiosity and wonder, we encourage you to apply.
$50,000 - $60,000 a year
Salary commensurate with experience.