Preschool Teacher (12 ECE Units Required)
Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm.
Stretch the Imagination is hiring a Preschool Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year beginning August 24, 2026. Candidates must have a minimum of 12 ECE units and at least 2 years of preschool classroom experience working with children ages 2–5. We are seeking a collaborative, energetic educator who believes in play-based learning, child-led exploration, and building meaningful relationships with children and families.
Qualifications - Preschool Teacher/ Early Childhood Teacher
Required:
- Minimum of 12 ECE units required
- Bachelor’s degree in Child Development or related field
- 2+ years of preschool teaching experience with children ages 2–5
- Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Passion for play-based and project-based learning
- Ability to work in person
Preferred:
- Experience with the Reggio Emilia Approach
- Background in nature-based or outdoor education
- Experience working in collaborative teaching environments
Responsibilities - Preschool Teacher/ Early Childhood Teacher
- Create and support engaging, play-based learning experiences for preschool-aged children
- Guide children through project-based exploration and child-led activities
- Collaborate with teaching teams to plan curriculum based on student interests and development
- Foster a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment
- Build strong relationships with children, families, and fellow educators
- Support children’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth
- Participate in outdoor and forest-based learning experiences one to two days per week
- Maintain classroom organization and follow health and safety guidelines
Benefits & Perks
- Competitive pay: $28.00–$35.00 per hour
- Full-time and part-time opportunities available
- Health insurance for eligible full-time educators
- 401(k) with company contribution and matching
- Paid time off
- Continuing education reimbursement
- Ongoing internal and external professional development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative teaching environment
- Beautiful, nature-focused school setting
About Stretch the Imagination
Stretch the Imagination is a highly respected early childhood preschool program dedicated to fostering curiosity, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences. Our philosophy centers around the belief that children are capable, competent learners who thrive through exploration, collaboration, and relationships. We use a play-based, project-oriented approach inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and provide children with regular opportunities to connect with nature through outdoor and forest-based learning experiences. Our school community is built on partnership, respect, and a shared commitment to supporting both children and educators in a positive and inspiring environment.
Pay: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
Application Question(s):
- Please list why you think you are a good fit for this role. 12 ECE units are required. Applicants who do not have the 12 ECE units will not be considered.
- Please explain how you would reliably commute to our San Francisco location and arrive by 8:00 AM each workday.
Experience:
- Preschool: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- San Francisco, CA 94115 (Required)
Work Location: In person
