Boston Outdoor Preschool Network, Inc. Certified Lead Teacher - Nature-Based Early Childhood Education Malden, MA · Milton, MA · Milton, MA · Jamaica Plain, MA · Part time Company website

Apply for Certified Lead Teacher - Nature-Based Early Childhood Education

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.

What you'll do

Curriculum & learning

Plan and lead engaging, hands-on nature-based activities - art, music, motor skills, and outdoor exploration. Document children's growth to inform bi-yearly progress reports and family conferences. Support and review reports drafted by co-teachers.

Team leadership & mentorship

Mentor and support co-teachers, interns, and volunteers. Foster a culture of continued professional growth. Provide coverage across classes or sites as needed to support staffing ratios.

Family engagement

Build warm, ongoing relationships with families through in-person communication, email, a monthly newsletter, and the ProCare app. Orient new enrollees and participate in parent-teacher conferences.

Safety & compliance

Conduct daily environmental safety checks, name-to-face checks at every transition, and monthly fire drills. Maintain EEC-required certifications and documentation, and uphold all health, safety, and supervision standards (CMR 606).

Schedule & Benefits

This is a part-time salaried position scheduled for approximately 24 hours per week. Teaching hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, with additional paid prep time built into the schedule each week.

The school calendar includes paid holidays and seasonal breaks that closely align with local public school calendars, including major vacation weeks and observed holidays.

What we're looking for

• EEC Lead Teacher Professional Certification (required)
• Suitable Background Check (required)
• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred - equivalent experience considered
• Experience with nature-based or experiential learning a plus
• Strong understanding of child development and social-emotional learning
• Experience mentoring or supervising staff
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative spirit

Physical requirements

This role involves frequent bending, squatting, walking on trails, and lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs. You'll work outdoors in varied weather conditions on uneven terrain — and love it.

Equal Opportunity Employer

BOPN is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds, identities, experiences, and perspectives to apply. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.