Wauhatchie School is a nature-based school promoting place-based, nature immersion experiences that foster holistic growth, the love of learning, and compassion for all.

Overview

The Forest K-5 Teacher will foster and facilitate the intellectual and social development of the children in an outdoor environment. Teaching this class in the forest includes observing and assessing class interests, planning and implementing lessons that expand on current interests, and creatively documenting class lessons to showcase the progress of the students. Teachers will work together, utilizing planning time to create optimal lesson plans and learning environments. The Forest K-5 Teacher will spend extended periods of time outdoors in all weather, including hiking and moderate physical challenges.

Responsibilities

• Working with teaching team and director to develop K-5 learning frameworks

• Understanding and implementing forest school philosophies while incorporating Tennessee State standards for Grades K-5

• Using a variety of activities and instructional methods (songs, stories, art, activities, etc.) to motivate and stimulate children’s abilities

• Meeting the emotional, social, and physical needs of each child

• Maintaining daily open communication with parents by posting photos and short narratives on Minga

• Documenting and recording children’s behaviors, progressions, and development in a weekly report form to share with the parents and administration quarterly

• Working with teaching team to write a monthly report of activities and learning experiences for the school newsletter

• Overseeing daily site assessment  of the outdoor site(s) before each session, making sure all hazards are properly assessed and amended to provide safe environment for children

• Preparing lesson plans and teaching materials for each day that will expand and enrich concepts according to the students’ interests

Expectations

• Attendance at all planned school events, weekdays and weekends

• Attendance at all staff meetings

• Demonstrate loyalty and commitment to Wauhatchie School and all staff members as a positive team player

• Participation in forest school research studies and daily reflective journaling

• Willingness to be observed periodically by teacher trainees and other professionals

• Undergraduate degree in education, outdoor studies or related field

• Documented experience working with children aged 5-11

• Ability and desire to encourage learning experiences that are child-directed

• Deep appreciation for and connection to nature

• Highly relational and effective collaborator and communicator

• Understands the philosophy of Forest School and best practices in teaching and learning

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.