Rising First Grade Teacher
Opening Statement
Invitation to Lead: Rising First Grade Teacher
Join our beautiful school community on South Whidbey Island, just an hour north of Seattle and ten minutes from the seaside charm of Langley. Our campus is nestled within 100 acres of preserved forest, land, and trails, providing an enriching, nature-immersed environment where the beauty of the landscape and the richness of the ecosystem serve as a living classroom.
The Opportunity
We invite you to step into a pivotal role as our Rising First Grade Teacher, guiding a vibrant group of children as they transition from the dreamy wonder of early childhood into the formal learning journey of the grades. This particular role involves leading a younger group of children, with the intention that they will be combined with the next year’s rising first grade class to form a robust, multi-age cohort.
At Whidbey Island Waldorf School (WIWS), we believe in nurturing the whole child—head, heart, and hands—through an arts-integrated curriculum enlivened by the natural world.
About
Our school is located on 100 acres of forest on South Whidbey Island, a truly special and magical place.
Essential Job Duties
The Journey Ahead
As the first grade teacher, you will serve as a “living bridge” for your students. You will introduce letters and numbers through the magic of imagination, storytelling, and artistic movement. You will foster a classroom culture rooted in social inclusion and restorative practices, helping children develop the moral and creative strength to thrive as independent thinkers and compassionate world citizens.
What Makes This Role Special
Nature as Teacher: Your days will include morning faculty verses and all-school circles under the forest canopy, with classes often walking and studying amidst the island’s fir and cedar trees.
Enduring Relationships: You will have the unique opportunity to stay with your class for multiple years, developing deep, meaningful bonds with each student and a strong social organism within the classroom.
Vibrant Community: Join a dedicated, non-dogmatic faculty supported by an engaged parent body and a school culture that celebrates seasonal festivals and the rhythms of the earth.
Qualifications
We Are Looking For Someone Who:
Holds a deep reverence for Waldorf education and an intimate knowledge of child development.
Possesses a warm, firm presence with strong classroom management skills.
Is committed to diversity, equity, and belonging and excited to bring the curriculum to life in fresh, inclusive ways.
Has earned a Bachelor’s degree and a recognized Waldorf teaching certificate (or is currently enrolled in a training program).
Employment Details
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary: in the range of $50,000-$60,000 with increments for Waldorf certification, previous teaching experience, and advanced degrees.
Supportive Benefits: Including medical coverage for full-time employees, tuition remission for eligible dependents, and professional development funds to support your continued growth.
Come be a part of the “little school in the big woods” and help guide our children toward a future of purpose and joy.
To Apply
Please submit a letter of interest, your resume, and three professional references to wiws-hiring@wiws.org. Visit our website at wiws.org or call us at 360-341-5686 to learn more about our school.
Whidbey Island Waldorf School is an equal opportunity employer.
