Job Openings

About Us

We are a play-based, parent-led cooperative preschool inspired by Waldorf principles, where children’s learning and growth are nurtured in an environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and connection with the natural world. Our community is centered around collaboration, with parents actively involved in the educational process, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere for both children and their families.

Position Overview

We are seeking a caring, reliable, and collaborative Assistant Teacher to support our Lead Teacher and children, ages 3–6, in a Waldorf-inspired, play-based learning environment. The Assistant Teacher will help implement a curriculum rooted in imaginative play, storytelling, nature exploration, and hands-on artistic activities from 9am-12pm, Monday through Friday.

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The ideal candidate is someone who is enthusiastic about early childhood education, comfortable working in a team-oriented, cooperative setting, and capable of helping to create a nurturing and orderly environment that supports social-emotional learning and child-led discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Support: Assist the Lead Teacher with daily routines, transitions, and classroom management to ensure a smooth, engaging, and nurturing environment.

• Curriculum Assistance: Support the implementation of Waldorf-inspired activities such as songs, storytelling, handwork, and seasonal celebrations.

• Child Supervision: Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Monitor play and social interactions, guiding and supporting children as needed.

• Emotional Support: Help create a warm, respectful atmosphere where children feel secure and supported. Model positive behavior and assist with conflict resolution.

• Outdoor Engagement: Participate in outdoor play and nature exploration, helping children build a connection to the natural world through observation and discovery.

• Clean-Up and Organization: Assist with maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment, including setup and cleanup of activities and materials.

• Team Collaboration: Communicate and collaborate with the Lead Teacher, parents, and other staff to support the learning community and uphold the cooperative model.

• Professional Growth: Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and cooperative activities as needed. Be open to learning about Waldorf principles and early childhood best practices.

• Community Involvement: Engage with families and support the cooperative nature of the school, including occasional participation in events and meetings.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework or degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.

• Experience: Prior experience working with young children in a preschool or childcare setting, especially in a play-based or Waldorf-inspired environment, is highly desirable.

• Certifications: CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

• Knowledge and Skills

  • Interest in Waldorf education, nature-based learning, and child-led play.

  • Kind, calm, and patient demeanor with a genuine love for working with young children.

  • Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a cooperative team.

  • Dependable, punctual, and attentive to the needs of children and the classroom.

  • Willingness to learn and grow in the role and contribute to a supportive community environment.

Preferred 
Qualifications

• Familiarity with Waldorf principles or experience in a cooperative preschool setting.

• Comfort with outdoor play and exploration in various weather conditions.

• Artistic or musical interests that can be shared with children (e.g., singing, handcrafts, storytelling).

Compensation

We offer an hourly wage of $17-19 hourly, based on education and experience, for classroom hours as well as for curriculum planning hours, parent meeting hours, and other hours as needed. Additionally, the role includes opportunities for professional development and a strong, supportive community of parents and educators.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about nurturing young minds, fostering a connection with nature, and working in a collaborative, parent-led community, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and at least two references to board@ebns.org.

Ellwanger Barry Nursery School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all teachers and families.