Overview: Camano Forest School is seeking a passionate and dedicated director to join our team in inspiring and educating young learners in an outdoor, nature-based setting. As a director at our forest school, you will have the unique opportunity to foster curiosity, creativity, and environmental stewardship among children while immersing them in the natural wonders of Camano Island’s forests.
Position: Outdoor Forest School Director (part-time)
Location: Camano Island, WA
Responsibilities:
-Oversee the daily operations of the school
-Manage staff in collaboration with the board of directors
-Identify and schedule fundraising events
-Schedule ongoing training of teachers and parent volunteers
-Plan and facilitate engaging outdoor lessons and activities that align with our nature-based curriculum.
-Create a safe and supportive learning environment that encourages exploration, discovery, and play.
-Incorporate hands-on experiences, storytelling, and arts-based activities to enhance learning and connection to nature.
-Foster positive relationships with students, parents, and staff members to support the holistic development of each child.
-Maintain open communication with parents regarding student progress, activities, and upcoming events.
-Ensure adherence to health and safety guidelines during all outdoor activities.
Qualifications:
-Candidates of varying educational backgrounds, cultural identities, abilities, and needs are encouraged to apply.
-Degree in early childhood development or relate field
-Prefer 3 years experience working with young children (3-10 years) in an educational or outdoor setting
-Experience working outdoors and adapting to seasonal weather conditions.
-Communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with students, parents, and colleagues.
-DCYF required health and safety trainings, including child/adult CPR and First Aid (or willingness to obtain)
Benefits:
-Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
-Professional development opportunities in nature-based education and outdoor leadership.
-A supportive and collaborative work environment within a vibrant outdoor community.
Physical Requirements:
-Outdoor Stamina: The role involves prolonged periods (6-7 hours) of outdoor activity in various weather conditions (e.g., sun, rain, cold). Applicants must be physically fit and capable of standing, walking, and engaging in physical play and exploration with children for extended periods.
-Mobility: Ability to move swiftly and react quickly to ensure the safety and well-being of children during outdoor activities, including hiking, running, and participating in nature walks.
-Lifting and Carrying: Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 pounds, including outdoor equipment, supplies, and occasionally children when necessary.
-Environmental Adaptability: Comfort working in natural environments and being exposed to elements like dirt, insects, plants, and animals.
-Health and Safety: Commitment to maintaining personal health and safety practices, including adherence to outdoor safety protocols, sun protection, hydration, and insect repellent application as needed.
-Physical Agility: Ability to navigate uneven terrain, bend, squat, kneel, and engage in facilitating outdoor games and activities.
-First Aid Readiness: Ideally, possess or be willing to obtain child/adult first aid and CPR certifications, as well as knowledge of handling minor injuries that may occur during outdoor play.
-Team Collaboration: Capability to work collaboratively with other educators and staff to ensure a safe and enriching outdoor learning environment for children.
Application Process: Please submit a cover letter and resume to info@camanoforestschool.org. In your cover letter, please explain your interest in nature-based education and why you would be a great fit for our forest school community.
Deadline for Applications: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
About Camano Forest School: Camano Forest School is dedicated to providing an enriching and transformative educational experience that connects children with nature and fosters a lifelong love for learning. Located amidst the natural beauty of Camano Island, our school offers a unique environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive in harmony with the natural world.
Join us in inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards and outdoor enthusiasts!
Camano Forest School is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $20.00 – $25.00 per hour
Camano Forest school is located on Camano Island, WA. No ferry is required for Camano Island.
To apply for this job email your details to info@camanoforestschool.org