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

Apply for Certified 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

Support the implementation of engaging, hands-on nature-based activities including art, music, motor skill development, and outdoor exploration. Help guide children through daily routines, social-emotional learning, and conflict resolution while fostering curiosity, confidence, and a connection to the natural world. Observe and document children's growth to support progress reports and family conferences.

Team collaboration & classroom support

Collaborate closely with co-teachers to maintain a supportive, inclusive classroom environment. Help ensure substitute teachers, interns, and volunteers have the information they need to effectively support the class. Provide classroom or site coverage as needed to maintain safe staffing ratios and support program operations.

Family engagement

Build warm, positive relationships with families through daily in-person communication and participation in parent-teacher conferences. Assist with communication through email or ProCare when needed. Represent the organization professionally and respectfully when interacting with families, site partners, and the public.

Safety & compliance

Conduct daily environmental safety checks and name-to-face checks during every transition. Maintain EEC-required certifications and documentation, including EEC Essentials 2.0 requirements, and uphold all health, safety, sanitation, supervision, and recordkeeping standards (CMR 606). Ensure children remain in safe, hazard-free environments both indoors and outdoors.

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 Teacher Professional Certification (required)
• Suitable Background Check (required)
• Experience engaging children of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds
• Experience with nature-based or experiential learning preferred
• Strong understanding of child development and social-emotional learning
• Collaborative, flexible, and team-oriented mindset
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

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.