Naturalist - Elementary Program

North Bay Montessori School seeks a Naturalist-in-Residence to lead our Outdoor Garden, Environmental, and Nature Education Program.

Program Description:

Our Nature enrichment program provides a child-led, collaborative experience for small groups in our Lower Elementary (grades 1-3) and Upper Elementary (grades 4-6) programs. We emphasize experiencing nature through the garden and outdoor space rather than solely teaching gardening. We organize groups of 6 children to visit the garden and participate in various educational and engaging activities such as gardening, nature crafts, animal identification, bird watching, dye making, and sampling edible garden plants through making food or teas. Next year, we plan to expand the program to include working with preschool-aged children. Our garden serves as an outdoor classroom meant to be a natural place with insects, reptiles, birds, and squirrels. Children are guided in nature studies and activities to connect with and care for their outdoor environment.

You don't need to be an expert, but you should be curious and connected to nature. We welcome new perspectives from teachers and aim to nurture children's love for nature and the outdoors.

The position also involves providing support in other areas of the school, including Elementary classroom support as needed and daily aftercare. The aftercare program could be customized to meet the needs of students staying for the after-school hours (until 5pm).

We are looking for qualified candidates who can provide enriching outdoor, garden, and naturalist experiences for elementary-aged children. It would be beneficial if the candidate also has experience working with preschool-aged children and holds at least 12 units of Early Childhood Education. If the candidate does not meet this requirement, they should be willing to obtain the necessary units to extend our program to children aged 3-6. Candidates with experience in Montessori education are especially encouraged to apply.

30-40 hours/week (40 hours preferable but could be flexible with start time if fewer hours needed. Candidates must be able to work until 5:15pm each day.)

Requirements / Desirables:

 12 ECE Units (or willingness to obtain these units over time)

 Minimum 2 years Teaching experience preferred (could include outdoor education)

 Montessori experience preferred

 Negative TB test within 4 years

 Available to start date of August 13, 2024

 Bilingual candidates are especially encouraged to apply -- fluent in Spanish and English preferred

We Offer:

 Competitive salary commensurate with experience

 Medical and Dental Benefits (90% premiums paid)

 Participation in Retirement Plan (automatic 3% employer contribution after 1 year / 6% match after 3 years)

 Paid Holidays

 PTO/Sick Time