Lead Preschool Teacher – Cairn Hill Nature Preschool

Position Overview

Cairn Hill Nature Preschool is seeking a passionate, nurturing, and experienced Lead Preschool Teacher to guide a classroom rooted in exploration, creativity, and meaningful connection. This role is essential in creating a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment aligned with Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) standards.

Responsibilities

• Curriculum & Instruction: Implement curriculum aligned with EEC guidelines and Massachusetts early learning standards; develop weekly and daily lesson plans inspired by seasonal changes and child-led exploration; facilitate a balance of structured and unstructured learning including storytelling, art, music, and early STEM.
• Child Development & Support: Build strong relationships with children and families, honoring individual developmental needs; conduct observations and maintain documentation of children's growth and progress; support social-emotional learning, independence, and positive peer interactions.
• Health, Safety & Compliance: Maintain active supervision at all times in accordance with EEC regulations; ensure compliance with child-to-staff ratios and licensing requirements; maintain safe, clean, and organized indoor and outdoor environments.
• Nature-Based Learning: Lead daily outdoor exploration in all weather conditions; encourage curiosity, risk-taking, and respect for the natural environment; supervise children safely on trails and outdoor play areas.
• Family & Community Engagement: Maintain open communication with families through conversations and updates; foster an inclusive and welcoming classroom environment; participate in events, open houses, and community engagement efforts.
• Professional Growth & Collaboration: Collaborate with leadership and team members to support program success; participate in trainings, meetings, and performance evaluations; maintain required certifications and stay current with best practices.

Qualifications

• Meets EEC requirements for Lead Preschool Teacher
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Experience in early childhood education required
• Preferred: EEC Lead Teacher Certification (Toddler and/or Preschool)

Who You Are

• Passionate about early childhood education and supporting the whole child
• Nurturing, patient, and creates a welcoming environment
• Creative and adaptable in lesson planning
• Values nature-based learning and outdoor time
• Strong communicator with families and team
• Collaborative, dependable, and proactive
• Committed to inclusion and equity
• Maintains a safe and organized classroom
• Dedicated to professional growth

Compensation & Schedule

Salary: $50,000 - $52,000 annually (exempt, full-time position)

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, full-time, year-round position aligned with program needs

Benefits

• Three (3) weeks of vacation
• Ten (10) sick days and two (2) personal days
• Thirteen (13) paid holidays plus one week closure between Christmas and New Year's
• Health and dental insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Ongoing professional development opportunities

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Camp Fire North Shore is deeply committed to creating an inclusive environment where all children, families, and staff feel valued, supported, and respected. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences.

Why Join Us?

At Cairn Hill Nature Preschool, you will be part of a mission-driven team that values creativity, connection, and the power of nature in early childhood education. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working in a supportive, collaborative, and purpose-driven environment.