Early Childhood Atelierista and Nature-Based Teacher

Breck School; Golden Valley (MN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 97,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Early Childhood Atelierista and Nature-Based Teacher to inspire young learners. This role involves creating a dynamic educational program that empowers children to explore their potential in a nurturing environment. You will integrate the Reggio Emilia approach and nature-based instruction, fostering creativity and curiosity among students. Join a community dedicated to equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning, and make a meaningful impact on the next generation. If you are committed to innovative teaching and building strong relationships, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required; degree in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of early childhood classroom teaching experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement engaging, inquiry-based instruction.
• Create an environment that promotes respect, wonder, and exploration.
• Communicate effectively with families and colleagues.

Skills

Knowledge of Reggio Emilia approach

Nature-based instruction

Classroom management

Effective communication

Curriculum development

Technology integration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

5+ years of early childhood classroom teaching experience

Job description

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Early Childhood Atelierista and Nature-Based Teacher

Title: Early Childhood Atelierista and Nature-Based Instructor

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports to: Division Director/ Early Childhood Dean
Salary Range: $50,000-$97,000 annually

Work Day: 9:00 - 5:00

Updated: 4/2025

All positions are in person

School Overview

Breck School is a preschool through twelve, coeducational college preparatory, Episcopal day school located in Golden Valley, Minnesota, with a national reputation for excellence and achievement in academics, athletics, and the arts. Our School’s Episcopal roots are lived through an unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging where we respect the dignity of every human being. We prioritize lifelong learning and a commitment to the greater good.

We are a community of highly engaged and motivated students, faculty, staff, and school leaders focused on building trusting relationships and strong academic scholarship through a practice of bridging research to practice. Upon graduation, Breck students are prepared for a life of intellectual curiosity, self-knowledge, and social responsibility, matriculating to colleges and universities throughout the world.

Position Overview
The educator is responsible for organizing, implementing, and providing a dynamic educational program where students are empowered to fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, spiritual, and psychological growth. While Breck is not a comprehensive Reggio Emilia program, the Atelierista part of the role incorporates principles of the Reggio Emilia approach, including designing learning experiences through the arts, documenting student expression and exploration, and collaborating with classroom teachers. The nature-based instruction part of the role supports inquiry, creativity, and connection to the natural world. This position will teach across all preschool and kindergarten classrooms.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Planning and Instruction

• Demonstrates knowledge of and proficiency with subject matter
• Designs and implements engaging, inquiry-based instruction aligned with Reggio Emilia and nature-based philosophies
• Integrates artistic expression and exploration as central components of learning, in the spirit of the Atelierista
• Plans and delivers developmentally appropriate instruction for a variety of learners, 3.5-7 year old
• Develops lessons that consider multiple perspectives and student interests
• Encourages curiosity, creativity, and student agency
• Uses observation and documentation to inform instruction and promote student learning

Classroom and Learning Environment

• Creates an environment that promotes respect, wonder, collaboration, and exploration
• Establishes strong, responsive relationships with students.
• Designs indoor and outdoor classrooms that serve as a “third teacher,” with rich materials and invitations to explore
• Integrates natural materials and outdoor learning spaces to support nature-based instruction
• Communicates clear and consistent expectations for learning, behavior, and participation
• Encourages social-emotional development and fosters a sense of belonging

Communication

• Communicates effectively and collaboratively with families, students, and colleagues
• Shares documentation of student learning in a timely and meaningful way
• Displays documentation of student learning projects
• Demonstrates effective written and oral communication skills
• Plans and delivers dynamic professional development and parent education

Professional Responsibility

• Supports the mission, vision, and values of the school
• Leads parent experiences to grow understanding of the program
• Aligns with the Reggio Emilia philosophy and nature-based learning approaches
• Engages in reflective practice and professional dialogue
• Builds and maintains strong working relationships with faculty, students, and parents
• Demonstrates a commitment to equity, inclusion, and respect for diverse perspectives
• Maintains confidentiality and demonstrates professionalism in all aspects of work
• Seeks and participates in ongoing professional growth opportunities
• Attends and contributes to required meetings, school events, and committee work
• Work day will be 9:00-5:00 in order to enrich the extended day programming for preschool students
• Performs additional duties as needed

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree required; degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred
• Minimum 5 years of early childhood classroom teaching experience preferred
• Familiarity and professional development with the Reggio Emilia approach, especially the role of the Atelierista, strongly preferred
• Experience leading nature-based instruction or outdoor learning environments
• Proficiency with integrating technology to support and document learning