Aspen Elementary Summer Explorers Outdoor Education Teacher
Position: Summer Explorers Outdoor Education Teacher
Location: Aspen Elementary
Dates: June 8 to June 26, June 29 to July 17, 2026, 5 days/week
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (One preparation day prior to the program start date)
Compensation: $50/hour
Position Type: Summer Season Part-time/Full-Time
Position Summary:
Aspen Elementary School is seeking a dedicated qualified Outdoor Educator (with WFR/WFA certification) to join our Summer Explorers program. This position is designed for an instructional leader who thrives in a non-traditional classroom and is skilled at utilizing the natural environment as a foundational teaching tool for students in grades K–5. This position is responsible for the seamless integration of place-based academics and wilderness-inspired leadership, and facilitates a structured literacy and inquiry-based curriculum by grounding abstract concepts in real-world, outdoor contexts—such as field observations, nature journaling, and ecological data collection. This position requires an expertise in group facilitation which can manage the logistics of outdoor exploration while fostering a culture of curiosity, environmental stewardship, and social-emotional growth through team-building and adventure-based learning.
Key Responsibilities:
- Instruction: Implement a structured literacy program to build reading, writing, and language skills. Lead inquiry-based mathematics lessons that focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world applications.
- Outdoor Education: Lead and organize outdoor education trips, including nature walks, field studies, and team-building activities. Ensure student safety and engage students in exploring the natural world.
- Classroom Management: Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment that encourages student participation, collaboration, and respect.
- Student Support: Provide individual and group support to ensure all students are meeting learning objectives. Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Collaboration: Work closely with other teachers and staff to ensure the program runs smoothly and meets all educational goals. Participate in staff meetings and professional development sessions.
- Other Duties as Assigned: Assist with program logistics, student supervision, and any additional duties as needed to support the success of the program.
Qualifications:
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Required:
- Current teaching license (preferred) or relevant teaching experience
- Outdoor Education qualification
- WFR/WFA certification
- Experience in teaching structured literacy programs (reading, writing, language arts)
- Experience teaching inquiry-based mathematics or problem-solving-based math instruction
- Strong classroom management skills and ability to create an engaging, student-centered learning environment
- Experience in leading and organizing outdoor education trips or activities
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Enthusiasm for working with elementary-aged students and helping them develop critical skills
- Ability to maintain a positive and flexible attitude in a summer learning environment
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Preferred:
- Prior experience teaching in a summer program or camp setting
- Familiarity with project-based learning or hands-on inquiry methods
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Working Conditions:
- Full-time (40 hours/week) and part-time positions are available.
- The Summer Explorers Teacher will work in both classroom settings and outdoor environments, including field trips and nature walks.
- Teachers are expected to adhere to safety guidelines and manage a safe, supportive learning environment for students at all times.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and references. In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your relevant teaching experience and why you're excited about the opportunity to work with elementary students in an outdoor education setting.
We look forward to welcoming passionate and dedicated teachers to our Summer Explorers team!