Open position starts August 26, 2024
Monday–Friday, 11:15 a.m.–1:15 p.m.
Ideal candidate would have morning availability for in-service training August 26–30 and September 3.
Additional substitute hours may be available if interested.

Dodge Nature Preschool seeks a Lunch Bunch Teacher to work collaboratively with the Preschool team in fulfilling the school’s mission of meeting children’s developmental needs while initiating them into a lifelong, meaningful relationship with the natural world. Lunch Bunch Teachers are part of a teaching team of three that oversee groups of up to 24 children.

Lunch Bunch Teachers supervise children during lunchtime and play with special attention to encouraging positive self-concept and enthusiasm for the discovery process. They keep expectations of children developmentally and individually appropriate, support children during daily routines and transitions, and handle discipline issues as opportunities for learning. This role is responsible for setting up and maintaining classroom supplies and carrying out high-quality, early childhood curriculum.

Dodge Nature Preschool follows an emergent curriculum with a social-constructivist approach. The Preschool operates as part of Dodge Nature Center. Grounds include woodlands, prairies, ponds, wetlands, and a model farm with animals, gardens, a greenhouse, apple orchard, maple syruping facility, and a bee apiary. A state-of-the-art preschool building with three outdoor/indoor classrooms provide early childhood nature education throughout the seasons.

Job Functions and Key ResponsibilitiesImplementing Curriculum and Supervising Preschoolers

• Implement emergent curriculum using a constructivist, inquiry-based, and Reggio Emilia approach.
• Work collaboratively with co-teacher in delivering programming with special attention to supporting children with self-care and social skill development.
• Facilitate small group activities and lead whole group experiences, such as leading a music and movement activity.
• Supervise children in work and play.
• Adhere to the code of Ethics of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Prepare and care for the classroom including lunch set-up and cleaning up tables & floor area after each session.
• Set out play equipment, wash art materials and other equipment after class sessions, and tidy the movement room in preparation for the afternoon session.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with co-teachers, school administrators, and preschool families.
• Support in maintaining an attractive, functional, appropriate learning environment that meets quality and safety standards set by Licensing and NAEYC.

Playing an active role in the operation of Dodge Nature Center and Preschool

• Attend monthly staff meetings and biannual in-service training.
• Other duties as assigned.

QualificationsMinimum Qualifications

• Qualification as an assistant teacher per MN Administrative Rule 9503.0032.
• Associate degree or higher in child development or early childhood education or a bachelor degree in any field with coursework in early childhood education or child development.
• One year of experience working with young children.
• Ability to communicate clearly with parents, co-teachers, and children.
• Ability to supervise children for up to two hours per day in an indoor classroom environment.
• Current Pediatric First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain.
• Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds to waist level.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in early childhood education, elementary education, or special education_ or_ a bachelor degree in a related field with a current child development associate credential.
• Work experience in a NAEYC accredited program.
• Experience working with the Reggio Emilia approach.

Dodge Nature Preschool welcomes all families and values diversity in the broadest sense including ethnicity, ability, gender identity, gender expression, family structure, sexual orientation, socioeconomic circumstances and religion. Our school seeks to promote equitable access to nature-based early childhood education for all communities, especially those for whom access has been denied historically. We acknowledge our responsibility to work to challenge bias and prejudice and listen to the voices of our community.

Dodge Nature Center and Preschool is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants and staff to bring their diverse perspectives, skills and experiences to Dodge. We commit to fostering an inclusive, welcoming work environment for all employees.

How to Apply

Application deadline: Friday, July 19. Please send cover letter and resume to:

Amy Warzybok, Preschool Director
AWarzybok@DodgeNatureCenter.org
Pronouns: She, Her, Hers
1715 Charlton Street
West St. Paul, MN 55118

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.50 - $18.50 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 10 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Work Location: In person