Lower Elementary Lead Teacher

Are you an enthusiastic and responsible collaborator who loves working with lower elementary students (grades 2-3)? Do you find passion in guiding students to be their best selves socially, emotionally, and academically? The Nature School of Central Indiana is excited to announce an opening for a Lower Elementary Lead Teacher for the 2026-2027 academic year. Our school community values the rich cultures, traditions, and ethnicities our families come from, and we are looking for diverse applicants who represent these backgrounds.

Application Deadline:

Immediate

About us:

The Nature School of Central Indiana students follow their natural interests as they explore their world, discovering the interconnectedness of personal responsibility, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Students learn how to work interdependently and collaboratively, experiencing a transformative education as they grow into the next generation of engaged, global thinkers who compassionately challenge the status quo. We strive to be a nurturing, diverse, and inclusive community.

Mission

The Nature School of Central Indiana: Changing the world for the better, one learner at a time.

Vision

The Nature School of Central Indiana approaches education with time-tested philosophies of Montessori and Waldorf education with a focus on nature-based learning, honoring the child as a whole, fostering a local community and global mindset, with a commitment to educational leadership and institutional longevity.

This job is for you if you:

• Are inspired by our mission and vision
• Love children and supporting their development
• Work collaboratively, positively, and professionally with all staff
• Establish a rapport and build relationships with students and families based on trust
• Set an excellent example for students by modeling honesty, accountability, understanding, tolerance, respect, love, and kindness
• Multitask, keep calm under pressure, and treat everyone with respect
• Maintain a positive attitude, flexibility, and a good sense of humor
• Display excellent planning, communication, and organizational skills
• Display strong conflict resolution skills
• Maintain a safe and secure environment
• Understand technology commensurate with program level requirements
• Maintain the confidentiality of the school's students, family, and staff
• Display curiosity and desire to grow professionally
• Train in, become familiar with, or be willing to learn about Montessori and Waldorf education
• Have a commitment to high quality care and learning
• Are a skilled classroom manager, inspiring children to be their best selves and coaching them through solution-finding processes
• Delight in the details of maintaining a classroom space for children to thrive
• Are a highly relational and effective communicator
• Are able to multitask and manage a variety of supportive responsibilities
• Have a positive attitude and are able to roll with a dynamic and creative organization
• Care about equity, diversity, and social and environmental justice
• Enjoy working in a progressive, relational, collaborative, and nature-loving team of dedicated and talented individuals

Lead Teacher Responsibilities (include, but not limited to):

• Montessori/Waldorf Curriculum Implementation:
• Plan and deliver small group lessons according to Montessori and Waldorf principles, focusing on hands-on learning, self-directed activity, and creativity.
• Utilize Montessori and Waldorf materials to facilitate learning in areas such as language, mathematics, science, cultural studies, and practical life skills.
• Nature-Based Curriculum Integration:
• Incorporate nature-based learning experiences into the curriculum, including outdoor exploration, gardening, and nature walks.
• Teach environmental stewardship and foster a connection to nature.
• Individualized Learning Plans:
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans based on each learner's needs, interests, and abilities.
• Observe and assess each child's progress, adjusting activities and materials accordingly.
• Holistic Development:
• Support the holistic development of each child, addressing social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
• Encourage independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Classroom Management

• Prepared Environment:
• Maintain a well-organized, clean, and stimulating classroom environment that supports the Montessori and Waldorf philosophy.
• Ensure that all materials are accessible and in good condition.
• Behavior Guidance:
• Guide children in developing positive behaviors and social interactions.
• Use conflict resolution techniques to help children resolve disputes peacefully.

Collaboration and Communication

• Family Communication:
• Regularly communicate with families about their child's progress, classroom activities, and upcoming events.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and provide detailed reports on each child's development.
• Team Collaboration:
• Work collaboratively with other teachers and staff to create a cohesive educational experience.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school community events.

Professional Responsibilities

• Continuous Improvement:
• Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with Montessori, Waldorf, and nature-based educational practices.
• Reflect on teaching practices and seek opportunities for improvement.
• School Community Involvement:
• Contribute to the overall community of the school by participating in events, committees, and projects.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive school culture.

Health and Safety

• Supervision and Safety:
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all learners during indoor and outdoor activities.
• Conduct regular safety checks and follow school policies and procedures for emergencies.
• Health Education:
• Teach children about healthy habits, including nutrition, exercise, and hygiene.

This role requires a teacher who is passionate about Montessori and Waldorf education and nature-based learning, and who can create a dynamic and engaging environment that fosters a love of learning and respect for the natural world.

Education/Experience:

• Valid Teaching License
• Montessori training is preferred
• Science of Reading Certification
• Experience working with elementary-aged children and families in a group setting
• CPR, First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens certified or be willing to obtain
• Positive Discipline training, or willing to take
• Anti-biased/Anti-racist training, or willing to take

Desired Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills with children and colleagues
• Strong decision-making skills to respond to risk management, emergencies, or difficult situations
• Ability and desire to support the classroom teacher and students
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally

Desired Behavioral Traits and Attitudes:

Leader, team player, fun, outgoing, passionate, nurturing, organized, flexible, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, and self-motivated. Passionate about TNS's mission and environmentally concerned and aware.