Contact Person: Abigail Matthiesen

Job Location:
Fenner Nature Preschool at Sycamore Creek
1526 E Mt Hope Ave, Lansing, MI 48910

Job Description:

Fenner Nature Preschool is a State of Michigan licensed, nature-based preschool program managed by Fenner Conservancy, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The program makes use of child-directed learning in both indoor and outdoor settings with a provocation-based curriculum inspired by Reggio Emilia.

Summary
The FNP Lead Teacher, reporting directly to the FNP Director, is responsible for direct instruction of students whileapplying best practice for their physical and emotional care including planning and implementing curriculum using emergent, nature-based and Reggio inspired methods. The ideal candidate would carry a deep personal connection to nature and a desire to connect our young learners to the natural world. Fenner Nature Preschool staff must be willing to spend a significant amount of time outdoors, in all weather, with their students.

This is an exempt, full time (i.e., year-round) position requiring a minimum of 40 hours a week with personal time off (PTO), retirement, short-term disability, and health benefit options. The position offers paid vacation and holidays with a starting base rate of $16-$18 per hour. The primary work schedule is weekdays 8:30 am – 5:30 pm, with occasional evenings and weekend days required.

Duties & Responsibilities
Planning and Administration (5%)
● Implement and evaluate center programs in alignment with licensing, mission and vision of the organization, and best practices outlined by the Natural Start Alliance and NAEYC standards.
● Participate in recruitment efforts for enrolling new families including open houses and outreach events.
● In some cases, the lead teacher may be responsible for managing the budget for classroom materials, equipment, and supplies.
● May be involved in the hiring and training of assistant teachers and support staff.
● Support in maintaining accurate records and family files.

Teaching and Evaluating (90%)
● Plan and deliver high quality, child directed curriculum to FNP students.
● Work with parents and families as the ‘first teachers’ of students.
● Provide ongoing developmental assessments and documentation for students in alignment with curriculum.
● Provide direct supervision, training, guidance and leadership to FNP assistant teachers.
● Be responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of all children in the group.
● Make provisions in the classroom for children with special needs.
● Maintain a charming and inviting classroom environment.

Classroom and Facilities (5%)
● Conduct daily classroom and facility upkeep to maintain hygienic environment.
● Conduct daily inspections of outdoor play areas for hazards.

Additional Requirements:
● Build and maintain positive working relationships with staff, trustees, and volunteers.
● Project a professional image internally and externally.
● Participate in regularly scheduled family conferences, staff meetings, parent meetings, and other Fenner Nature Center functions as appropriate.
● Attend training sessions for blood borne pathogens, CPR, 1st Aid, and other professional development opportunities as appropriate.
● Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
● 21 years of age or older and have CDA or college degree (Associates or higher) in early childhood education, child development, or a child related field
● At least two years of early childhood teaching experience
● Additional experience in environmental education or related fields preferred
● Demonstrated strength in leading outdoor activities
● Demonstrated understanding of principles and techniques of early childhood education and developmentally appropriate practices as well as the ability to implement that knowledge
● A demonstrated knowledge about the natural world or a willingness to acquire knowledge about the natural world
● Experience with Reggio Emilia teaching preferred
● Excellent communication skills. Able to effectively and comfortably communicate with parents and peers
● Criminal history background check and Central Registry Clearance will be required

Environmental Conditions of Position:
● The majority of the work associated with this position will occur in the outdoor learning environment.

To apply, please submit cover letter that addresses your interest in the position, along with your résumé and a list of three professional references and their contact information to: Email: preschool@mynaturecenter.org

Closing Date for Job:  08/01/2025