The Discovery School
The Discovery School is located in Sausalito, California.
Start Date: November 1, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY
Lead Preschool Teacher provides daily care and supervision of children enrolled in The Discovery School (TDS) program, works directly with families, and provides leadership of TDS inside the classroom.
Ideal candidates will have deep commitment to and passion for learning along with a growth mindset, some experience co-creating an inquiry-based curriculum and documenting learning, knowledge of child development, love and respect for young children and their capabilities, and interest in serving in an entrepreneurial and evolving school community.
The Discovery School is a Reggio-inspired preschool. Our program is the only museum-based preschool in California, and we draw upon BADM’s 30 years of child-directed, open-ended, inquiry-driven learning, as well as best practices in creativity development from BADM’s research. We are fortunate to offer a low student to teacher ratio and an incredibly engaged parent community. BADM also provides an unmatched location, on 7.5 acres of National Park land at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge and with immediate access to the beach, coastal habitat, historic batteries and hiking trails.
This is a full-time position working a Monday – Friday schedule from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. This non-exempt position pays up to a rate of $32.00-$35.00 per hour, less applicable withholdings. You will also be eligible for a monthly cell phone reimbursement of $30/month.
The teaching calendar runs through early June 2024, with a possibility to teach the summer program and return for forthcoming school years.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead Preschool Teacher
Ensures the safety and supports the wellbeing (emotional, physical, cognitive, and behavioral) of all children enrolled in the program.
Works collaboratively with children and educator team in thoughtful and creative planning and preparing of learning activities and curriculum development inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, aligned with clear intentions, and best practices for young children.
Observes, reflects and documents individual and group experiences and works collaboratively to collect, display and disseminate documentation.
Aids the research teams that work with The Discovery School students; utilizes museum research to inform the planning and preparation of the curriculum.
Builds positive, supportive relationships with families
Participates in regular communication with families regarding the daily preschool experiences as well as specifically written communication on Parent & Teacher Dialogue Days to share documentation related to the development of their child, as well as including goal setting for children’s individual development.
Collaboratively writes regular reflections, sharing documentation of preschool experiences to serve as digital communication with all families.
Participates in professional development meetings, workshops, and conferences.
Ensures proper maintenance and cleanliness of classroom and supplies daily.
Attends school and class events. May assist and support other museum programming, including during fundraisers, festivals, and other programs.
Communicates and works collaboratively with all other museum departments.
Additional duties as required.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Licensing Requirements
LiveScan and criminal record clearance through DOJ Child Abuse Index as well as proof of absence of tuberculosis (TB) are required before starting employment.
A minimum of 12 Units in Early Childhood Education
Must be trained or commit to being trained in First Aid, CPR and AED for adults, infants, and children.
Proof of MMR and DTAP immunizations
Additional Requirements
AA considered, BA or BS preferred. Degree in education, early childhood education, child development or relevant field strongly preferred.
Minimum 3 years of experience in a preschool setting required.
Experience in Reggio Emilia-inspired curricular development and environment design is strongly preferred.
Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practices, and inquiry-based learning.
Must be willing to follow and enforce CDC guidelines and the institution’s health and safety procedures. Experience in, or an understanding of, trauma-sensitive practices are strongly preferred.
Professional commitment to Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion; thoughtful and open about the role of a workplace and cultural institution in creating sense of welcome and belonging for students, staff, and visitors.
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to take initiative, work independently, and troubleshoot in a fast-paced work environment a must
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to use computer equipment required (Microsoft Word, Excel, Zoom, and Google Docs)
Must work well with a variety of people from various backgrounds and cultures
Flexible, good-humored, team player with a strong work ethic
Ability to move from place to place, work outdoors, bend and lift and carry up to 35 pounds short distances
This is a full-time position working a Monday – Friday schedule from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. This non-exempt position pays up to a rate of $32.00-$35.00 per hour, less applicable withholdings. You will also be eligible for a monthly cell phone reimbursement of $30/month.
-Dental insurance
-Disability insurance
-Health insurance
-Paid time off
-Vision insurance
Please email your resume to ireilly@badm.org.
Rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we view children as capable and curious learners. Our educators, seen as researchers in their own right, use child development research to shape their practice, forming a strong partnership with families. The classroom environment itself is thoughtfully designed to act as a “third teacher,” providing materials and spaces that encourage exploration and creativity.
Our Reggio-inspired approach focuses on the whole child—physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development. Through joyful learning and collaborative play, we create opportunities for children to grow and thrive. Strong relationships are at the heart of our community, building a safe and nurturing space where children feel supported and valued.
Ina Reilly
ireilly@badm.org
Together, we are empowering exceptional education.