Honeycomb Kids of Richmond, Vermont is now accepting applications for lead teacher positions starting mid August 2018, or potentially sooner. The full time position is four, 10 hour days per week (Monday through Thursday), and a potential part time position is approximately 12 to 16 hours per week, which could be flexible for the right candidate.
Honeycomb Kids is a LifeWays program, https://lifewaysnorthamerica.org However, we utilize multiple developmental approaches (Waldorf, Montessori, Reggio Emelia, etc). Our core principles are founded in LifeWays, and we use a relationship based model of care. This means our relationships with each child and family are significantly more important than toys. Inside the school house, (which is a house), the rhythm of the home is the foundation for our curriculum, and we engage with the children in ‘purposeful work’ such as cooking, cleaning, organizing, self-care, caring for the younger children, gardening, making our own toys and tools as well as planning and investigating relevant subjects over time. Outside, we have long periods of uninterrupted free play in forests, fields, and in our outdoor classroom. We are outside for 2 to 3 long periods of time each day (1.5- 3 hours weather depending), and we are able to be outside for full days when the weather permits.
The successful applicant will be responsible for a group of six mixed age children (2 to 6 years old), and will plan and implement curriculum based on children’s observed interests and development while maintaining a strong daily rhythm for your group that swings between free play and focused group activities.
Job Requirements- minimum:
- Completion of or enrollment in the LifeWays Early Childhood Training
- Be able to assist in planning of and independently implement curriculum for a mixed age group of up to 6 children ages 2.5 to 6.
- Have at least an Associates Degree in a related field OR 21 college credits in a related field, OR have completed the VT Early Childhood Career Ladder Level 2 Certificate
- Pass a background check.
- Demonstrate an interest in / willingness to learn about the LifeWays / Steiner / Waldorf approach to child development and curriculum.
- Attend least 21 hours of professional development a year- (15 hours paid, as required by the State of Vermont).
The ideal candidate has a background in child development, enjoys outdoor education, is comfortable outside for long periods of time with children (in all types of weather), and has experience working with children. Ideally you have a desire to investigate the natural world with genuine wonder and curiosity and share your observations with the children. Flexibility, creativity and compassion are key requirements, and ideally someone who is patient, clean and organized are helpful skills. The ideal candidate is firm but also kind, and easily balances the needs of the individual child and the needs of the larger group. A successful candidate will be able to take on increasing levels of responsibility in terms of curriculum planning and implementation, some light administrative tasks, as well as become an active participant in creating a supportive community for parents in their parenting journey.
Please send a resume and cover letter to:
Ellen Kraft HoneycombKidsVT@gmail.com