The Role
Part-time parental leave substitute teacher leading Naturalist classes for Grades K–4. Responsibilities include adapting lesson plans, collaborating with educators, attending meetings, supervising school duties, maintaining raised garden beds and nature playscapes, and supporting seasonal grounds work. Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in education or science, strong communication skills, collaborative teaching experience, and preferably Master Naturalist certification. The role requires outdoor work in varied weather and the ability to lift over 50 pounds.
Summary Generated by Built In
Thaden School is now seeking a part-time Lower School Naturalist parental leave substitute teacher. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Master Naturalist who has deep experience working with groups of students.
Role and Responsibilities
- Add details to substitute plans left by the Naturalist Teacher and lead classes for Grades K-4.
- Collaborate with other specialist teachers, grade level teams, and the Curriculum Specialist to ensure high-quality Naturalist instruction.
- Attend in-service days and faculty meetings as requested by the Head of Lower School.
- Perform duties outside the classroom during set hours (e.g. recess, class coverage, reception desk, carpool and/or lunch duties).
- Maintain Lower School raised garden beds.
- Maintain clear pathways and monitor nature playscape for safety concerns in inclement weather.
- Support grounds team in weeding, watering, pruning, and planting as seasonally appropriate.
Skills, Qualifications, and Attributes
- Experience partnering with other educators to create interdisciplinary learning experiences for students.
- Ability to think broadly and creatively about student-centered learning.
- Commitment to providing detailed feedback on student work in a timely manner.
- Excellent verbal and written skills.
- Bachelor’s degree in education or a Science field. Master Naturalist certification preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Frequently required to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods.
- Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms.
- Ability to lift, push, or pull heavy objects, sometimes exceeding 50 lbs.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, humidity, windy conditions, cold, snow, and ice.
- Occasionally required to bend, twist, or climb.
- Moderate concentration/intensity, which includes prolonged mental effort with limited opportunity for breaks.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in education or a science field
- Experience working with groups of students
- Experience partnering with educators to create interdisciplinary learning experiences
- Ability to develop creative, student-centered learning experiences
- Ability to provide detailed and timely feedback on student work
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Master Naturalist certification
- Ability to lift, push, or pull heavy objects, sometimes exceeding 50 pounds
- Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions
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The Company
What We Do
Thaden School is an educational institution serving grades K-12, focused on providing a balanced and challenging curriculum that encourages a passion for discovery, preparing students for success in college and responsible citizenship. Established in 2017 with support from the Walton Family Foundation, the school aims to foster a diverse community.






