Toddler & Preschool Teacher

About the role

Temple Shalom is a vibrant Reform Jewish congregation in Newton, Massachusetts, serving more than 600 families. At the heart of our community is Temple Shalom Nursery School (TSNS), where children ages 18 months through five years learn, grow, and thrive in a joyful, play-based environment. Our educational philosophy is grounded in Jewish values—community, kindness, respect, curiosity, and justice—and brought to life through meaningful relationships, child-led exploration, and our Nature Explore Certified Outdoor Classroom. We believe every child is born with infinite potential, and we are committed to nurturing that potential every day.

Responsibilities

• Foster a warm, nurturing classroom where every child feels welcomed, safe, and supported.
• Observe children's interests and developmental progress to plan engaging, open-ended learning experiences.
• Build trusting relationships with children and their families through consistent, responsive communication.
• Collaborate closely with your co-teacher to plan daily routines, classroom experiences, and transitions.
• Support children's social-emotional growth, independence, language development, and emerging curiosity through play.
• Incorporate Jewish values, traditions, and celebrations into classroom life in joyful, age-appropriate ways.
• Engage children in our nature-rich outdoor classroom, encouraging exploration, discovery, and appreciation of the natural world.
• Document children's learning through observations, photographs, and portfolios.
• Communicate regularly with families about children's experiences, milestones, and growth.
• Partner with colleagues, specialists, and administrators to support each child's success.
• Participate actively in staff meetings, professional development, and school-wide events.

Qualifications

• Required: Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience (or willingness to pursue required coursework).
• Experience working with toddlers (18 months–3 years) in an early childhood or group care setting.
• Passion for play-based, relationship-centered early childhood education.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification upon hire.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of working with toddlers, including lifting children, sitting on the floor, and actively participating in indoor and outdoor play.

Preferred

• Experience with play-based, emergent, or inquiry-based curriculum.
• Enthusiasm for nature-based and outdoor education.
• Familiarity with, or openness to learning about, Jewish traditions, holidays, and values.
• Experience supporting children with diverse learning needs and a commitment to inclusive, anti-bias teaching practices.