Boston Outdoor Preschool Network, Inc. All-Site Floating Nature Preschool Teacher Malden, MA · Milton, MA · Milton, MA · Jamaica Plain, MA · Part time Company website

Apply for All-Site Floating Nature Preschool Teacher

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (BOPN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, nature-based early childhood education across Greater Boston. We partner with public parks, historic sites, and cultural institutions to offer immersive, outdoor preschool programs that support the development of the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. What sets BOPN apart is our belief that nature is not just a backdrop for learning, but a powerful teacher. Our classrooms are forests, fields, and parklands, where children build curiosity, resilience, empathy, and a lasting connection to the natural world through play-based, child-centered experiences. We are deeply committed to expanding access to outdoor education and fostering inclusive learning environments for children and families from diverse communities. As an organization, we value collaboration, reflective practice, and continuous learning. We strive to support our educators and staff with meaningful professional development, strong community partnerships, and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and early childhood education.

Position Overview: All-Site Floating Teacher

The Floating Teacher will rotate between sites and classrooms based on program needs, providing coverage for staff absences, supporting classroom ratios, and strengthening teaching teams. This role requires a high degree of adaptability, strong communication, and a willingness to commute between locations throughout the week.

This teacher will play a critical role in ensuring consistency, continuity, and quality of care across all sites.

A Day in the Life

Each day may look different. One morning you may be exploring woodland trails with preschoolers at the Arboretum, and the next supporting a toddler class in Milton or Malden. Wherever you are, you’ll step into a teaching team ready to welcome your support—guiding children through nature exploration, fostering connection, and helping maintain a safe, joyful, and engaging learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom & Teaching Support

• Step into different classrooms and teaching teams seamlessly, adapting to varying routines, age groups, and site expectations
• Implement engaging, hands-on, nature-based activities that promote exploration, curiosity, and creativity
• Support children in outdoor exploration, including hikes and engagement with natural materials and environments
• Maintain a safe and supportive environment, supervising children and supporting their needs in all weather conditions
• Assist with toileting/diapering, snack, and daily routines as needed

Collaboration & Flexibility

• Build strong working relationships with multiple teaching teams across sites
• Communicate clearly with Site Directors and staff to understand daily classroom needs and expectations
• Demonstrate flexibility and professionalism when adjusting to last-minute schedule or site changes
• Travel between sites as needed; reliable transportation is required

Program Support

• Help maintain classroom materials and organization across sites
• Support behavior guidance using BOPN’s approach to social-emotional development
• Assist with child observations and documentation when supporting classrooms consistently
• Uphold site partner policies and represent BOPN professionally in all locations

Family & Community Interaction

• Engage warmly and professionally with families across multiple sites
• Support consistent communication practices when stepping into classrooms
• Represent BOPN’s mission and values in all interactions
• Position Requirements
• At least 3 years of experience in early childhood education, nature-based education, or a related field
• EEC Teacher Certification required (Lead Teacher Certification a plus)
• Strong classroom management skills and ability to quickly adapt to new group dynamics
• High level of flexibility, reliability, and comfort with changing environments and schedules
• Reliable transportation and willingness to commute between Boston, Milton, and Malden sites
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Passion for environmental and anti-bias education
• Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Reflective, team-oriented mindset with a willingness to learn and grow

Locations:

• Arnold Arboretum (Jamaica Plain),
• Eustis Estate,
• Forbes House Museum,
• Pine Banks Park

Required Qualifications:

• EEC Lead Teacher Professional Certification
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• EEC Strong Start Essentials 2.0 Training certificate of completion
• Leadership experience and ability to mentor and supervise staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent bending, squatting, walking on trails, and lifting/carrying materials and children over uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.

School Year: 2026–2027

Compensation: Salaried position equivalent to $22–$27/hour dependent on EEC certification/location and experience, with paid time off for breaks and holidays

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (15 hours/week)

Calendar: September 2026 through June 2027, aligned with public school breaks and holidays

Contingencies of Employment

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of all required background checks (including those required by EEC regulations), reference checks, verification of credentials and qualifications, and any other pre-employment requirements applicable to the position.

At Will Employment

Employment with BOPN will be on an “at will” basis, meaning that either you or BOPN may terminate your employment at any time. BOPN also reserves the right to modify or amend the terms of your employment at any time for any reason. Although your job duties, title, compensation, as well as BOPN’s personnel policies and procedures may change from time to time, the “at will” nature of your employment may only be changed in an express written agreement signed by you or your representative and BOPN’s leadership.

Equal Opportunity Employer

BOPN is committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees and applicants, regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation or identity, genetic test results, disability, political affiliation, military service, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. THis is the most up to date list: to race, color, ancestry, national origin (including hairstyles related to those groups), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgendered status, religion or religious creed, age, pregnancy or related conditions, handicap (disability), mental illness, genetics, military or veteran status or any other protected class under Federal, State, or local law.

Massachusetts Lie Detector Notice

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.