Boston Outdoor Preschool Network, Inc. Substitute Toddler and Preschool Teacher- Nature Preschool Malden, MA · Milton, MA · Jamaica Plain, MA · Part time Company website

Apply for Substitute Toddler and Preschool Teacher- Nature Preschool

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.

A Day in the Life as a Substitute-Teacher:

As the sun peeks through the trees, the day begins with excited little explorers ready to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. Children touch the rough bark of trees, play in the soft moss, and discover the thrill of creating mud pies and nature art. Laughter fills the air as the children, led by their teacher, embark on journeys that foster connection—both with the natural world and each other. At BOPN, we believe these moments of joy and discovery are not just learning opportunities but memories that will last a lifetime.

Position Overview:

We are looking for an enthusiastic Substitute Teacher willing to substitute teach at any/all of our various locations. The ideal candidate will be someone with a passion for both young children and nature-based education, someone who will nurture children’s curiosity, encourage exploration, and help foster a sense of wonder and community. This teacher will guide and support young children’s development through meaningful outdoor experiences while building strong relationships with families.

Teaching Responsibilities: 

• Implement engaging, hands-on activities that promote exploration, curiosity and a love of nature.  Curricula should incorporate nature-based art, music literacy, gross motor and fine motor materials and activities.  
• Maintain and manage classroom materials including equipment, Supplies and resources.  This includes replenishing depleted items and submitting supply orders when necessary.  
• Support children with nature exploration, including but not limited to; lead site hikes and explore topography, vegetation and animals.  Facilitate opportunities for children to connect, care for and appreciate the natural world.  
• Model appropriate behaviors and conversation within the class, guide child behaviors and address conflict by using effective behavior guidance strategies.  
• Supervise child interactions and play to ensure the health and safety of each child in your care.  This includes helping children with resiliency during wet, cold and hot weather school days and aiding children during diapering/toileting and mealtimes.
• Observe children and gather data for bi-yearly child progress reports and conferences.
• Abide by site partner rules and policies and ensure families and children are adhering to the policies established by the site partner.
• Supervise and mentor Assistant Teachers, Fellows, Interns & Volunteers assigned to your class.  You may be asked to contribute feedback about staff in your classroom during staff yearly evaluations.
• Establish rapport and nurture relationships with families by communicating in a professional and effective manner, in-person, and through email and the ProCare application (secure communication software).  
• Orient new families before the start of the school year and if there are mid-year child additions to your class.  Ensure the family feels comfortable before and during transition into the program.  A check-in should occur 1 week and 1 month after enrollment.
• Respond promptly to time-sensitive communications.  Communications should occur in a timely manner (24 hrs after initial contact on weekdays and 48 hrs on weekends).
• Maintain open and frequent communication with parents regarding their child’s development and experience during the school day.
• Assist marketing staff with posting photos and stories to the ProCare application.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences.
• Professionally interact and communicate with site partners and the general public during program hours.

Position Requirements:

• EEC teacher certification (Lead Teacher or Director Certification is a bonus!).
• EEC StrongStart Essentials 2.0 Training certificate & Refresher (Required)
• Strong classroom management skills and the ability to maintain a safe, positive, and effective learning environment.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage program logistics while also teaching.
• Strong communication skills with children, families, and colleagues.
• Passion for environmental education and anti-bias education.
• An appreciation for all kinds of weather, seeing each change as an opportunity to connect with nature.
• A humble and reflective attitude with a willingness to learn and grow.

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 employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin (including hairstyles associated with those groups), religion or religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, age, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions, disability, mental illness, genetic information or genetic test results, political affiliation, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by 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.