Outdoor Nature-Based Early Learning Teacher

Gathering Tree Early Learning, LLC; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Reduced tuition for staff's child

Professional development time

Paid holidays after 1 year

Job summary

Gathering Tree Early Learning, LLC seeks a Nature‑Based Early Learning Teacher to cultivate an outdoor classroom where children learn through immersive play and exploration. You will lead a teaching team, coordinate curriculum, and support daily operations while building strong relationships with families.

You will guide assistants, ensure safety, and model best practices in a collaborative, child-centered setting that values exploration and development across cognitive, social, emotional, and

Qualifications

• Associate degree in ECE with 30+ credits.
• Clear background check and health screening.
• Minimum 2 years of professional child care experience.
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• High energy and ability to collaborate with staff, children, and parents.
• Strong leadership, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of child development.
• Strong oral and written communication and basic computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a curriculum that embodies play-based, child-led learning, aligning activities with developmentally appropriate practices and early learning guidelines.
• Set a positive example by modeling best practices, supporting the teaching team, to ensure a consistent, high-quality learning environment.
• Create engaging learning experiences that cater to individual and group needs, promoting social, cognitive, emotional, and physical growth through hands-on discovery and exploration in nature.
• Foster strong relationships with families through regular, meaningful communication, including informal check-ins, progress updates, and parent-teacher conferences.
• Ensure compliance with center policies, licensing requirements, and state regulations.
• Maintain a safe and healthy environment by ensuring hygiene, cleanliness, and child safety procedures are in place.
• Keep accurate records and required documentation to support effective program operations and reporting.
• Develop a personal professional development plan focused on continuous improvement, reflection, and strengthening teaching practice.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Child development knowledge

Team collaboration

Education

Associate’s Degree in early childhood education or related field (30 ECE credits)

Tools

CPR Certification (Infant/Child)

First Aid Certification

Job description

Gathering Tree Early Learning, LLC seeks a Nature‑Based Early Learning Teacher to cultivate an outdoor classroom where children learn through immersive play and exploration. You will lead a teaching team, coordinate curriculum, and support daily operations while building strong relationships with families.

You will guide assistants, ensure safety, and model best practices in a collaborative, child-centered setting that values exploration and development across cognitive, social, emotional, and