Early Childhood Summer Program Instructor – Mountain Academy

Summer in the Tetons is an incredible time to explore the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. At Teton Science Schools, we connect people, place, and nature through education—and we are seeking passionate instructors to do this work with our youngest learners.

Early Childhood Summer Program Instructors play a lead role in Mountain Academy’s Reggio Emilia–inspired, nature-based summer programs for children ages 3–5 in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Our programs foster curiosity, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth through outdoor exploration, play, and adventure.

Instructors are responsible for leading curriculum development and daily learning experiences using experiential, place-based education. Working almost entirely outdoors, instructors follow children’s interests and curiosities to guide emergent learning. This role works closely with the Early Childhood Assistant Director and Summer Program Assistant to ensure engaging, high-quality programming each week.

This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in early childhood education, explore the natural world, and contribute to a collaborative, reflective teaching team.

Responsibilities:Curriculum & Instruction

• Lead the development and implementation of curriculum in collaboration with co-teachers, the Program Assistant, and the Assistant Director
• Design and set up engaging outdoor learning environments and provocations dailyCreate daily documentation that reflects children’s learning and is shared with families
• Lead children on program journeys around Jackson multiple times each week

Children & Family Support

• Serve as a primary point of contact for families regarding classroom experiences, communicating with professionalism, empathy, and clarity
• Support children’s social-emotional development and behavior through developmentally appropriate guidance
• Foster a fun, safe, and meaningful learning environment
• Provide hands-on care including bathroom support, meals, sunscreen application, and overall well-being

Early Childhood Team Member

• Attend and actively participate in all staff meetings and trainings
• Collaborate closely with co-teachers and support staff
• Contribute ideas, questions, and reflections to strengthen the program
• Complete instructional responsibilities including lesson planning, documentation, cleaning, and preparation

Risk & Safety Management

• Respond to emergencies in accordance with Teton Science Schools policies and procedures
• Follow all school policies, state licensing regulations, and health and safety protocols
• Actively supervise children and maintain a safe, supportive learning environment
• Assess and manage risk during indoor and outdoor experiences, balancing safety with opportunities for exploration and growth
• Safely operate 15-passenger minibuses for program-related travel and properly use 5-point harness car seats

Qualifications:

• Enthusiasm for working with young children in playful, engaging, nature-based learning environments
• Flexibility, adaptability, and energy for a fast-paced, outdoor, short-term program
• Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all children
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Comfort spending extended time outdoors in varied weather conditions
• Willingness to engage in hands-on caregiving and daily routinesAbility to collaborate effectively while also taking initiative independently
• Interest in reflection, learning, and professional growth
• Current First Aid and Adult, Child & Infant CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain prior to program start)
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Successful completion of a criminal background check, driving record review, and all Wyoming state licensing requirements

This job description is not meant to state or imply that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their manager in compliance with federal and state laws.

Teton Science Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, creed or sexual orientation in any of its policies or programs.