Who are we
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 preparing the classroom for the activities ahead in the day. Then students will trickle down into the classroom to meet you. You will conduct a morning meeting and fuel the body up with a snack before beginning your 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, students will gather for an afternoon snack, pack up, and join the younger classroom.
Responsibilities
A Lead Teacher is responsible for the following:
- The well-being of the children under their care
- Completing risk and hazard assessments to ensure students are playing and interacting with one another in a safe environment
- Monitoring the children all day using active supervision
- Perform first aid as needed for scrapes or cuts, and administer medication to children with allergies or other medical conditions
- Providing the proper attention and ensuring students are engaged and having fun
- Change diapers of children between 2.5 - 5 years old
- Ensure good hygiene habits are followed and formed
- Cleaning interactive areas and materials throughout the day
- Organizing activities and developing curriculum for the older children
- Develop and maintain a schedule and routine for the children throughout the day and week
- Record each child’s progress, interests, and any problem that may occur (this looks like creating academic reports, incident/accident reports, messaging parents, etc.)
- Maintaining contact with the children’s parents throughout the day and contacting them in the case of an emergency
Qualifications
Lead Teachers must be skilled in interacting with and providing care for children of various ages. Some of the most important skills they should have include :
- Caring and compassionate attitude when interacting with children
- Strong verbal communication and listening skills to converse with children, fellow professional caregivers, and parents/guardians
- Excellent patience and stamina for keeping up with the demands of children of all ages
- Advanced multitasking and organizational skills to “handle” multiple children at a time
Teachers are required to:
- Pass 3 types of background checks
- Be willing to obtain and maintain certifications in CPR and First Aid.
- Complete 30 hours of Professional Development training annually
- 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.
Job Specifics
** You will receive a sign-on bonus of $300 if you are already fingerprinted in the State of Maine after 90 days of service! **
Hours: (Full-time) Monday through Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm
Salary: $20-$22 per hour
Benefits: paid time off, paid training opportunities, gear stipend, etc.
How to start your journey with us
Send your resume and briefly explain why you want to work outside with children.
Contact person: Jess Labbe
Non-discrimination Statement
Village Nest Cooperative is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in employment and education. VNC does not discriminate against individuals based on race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or veteran status in the administration of admission policies, education policies, employment policies, and other school activities and programs.
Salary :
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