Overview
The Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor (RSSAA) is seeking a collaborative, enthusiastic Outdoor Education Teacher to lead our Outdoor Education program for Grades 1–7. This unique role combines environmental education, land stewardship, and Waldorf pedagogy, helping children develop meaningful relationships with the natural world through hands-on learning, observation, and care for the land.
We are looking for someone who values authentic relationships, innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. If you are passionate about environmental education, enjoy working outdoors in all seasons, and believe children learn best through direct experience, we would love to hear from you. This reflects the school's emphasis on nature-based learning, collaboration, and belonging.
The Outdoor Education Teacher plans and teaches a sequential Outdoor Education curriculum for Grades 1–7 while partnering closely with classroom teachers through place-based learning. Beyond teaching, this role serves as a steward of the school's beautiful grounds—including gardens, wooded areas, and rain gardens—helping cultivate spaces where children can learn, explore, and contribute meaningfully.
Responsibilities
Teach weekly or biweekly Outdoor Education classes for Grades 1–7 during the fall and spring months.
Collaborate with classroom teachers to integrate Outdoor Education into Main Lesson blocks, including botany, farming, watershed geography, river studies, and sustainability.
Guide student stewardship projects that grow over multiple years.
Care for the school's gardens, woodland areas, rain gardens, and native plantings in coordination with Building and Grounds Team.
Coordinate seasonal stewardship activities and family engagement events.
Partner with local environmental organizations and community resources when appropriate.
Provide year-end notes and student reports.
Foster safe outdoor learning through clear expectations and supervision.
Collaborate closely with faculty to ensure Outdoor Education complements each class's developmental journey.
Desired Qualifications
We're seeking someone who brings:
Bachelor's degree in education, environmental science, horticulture, outdoor education, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Experience teaching outdoor, environmental, or garden-based education with elementary or middle school students.
Knowledge of regional ecology, native and invasive plants, watershed science, and horticulture.
Comfort leading hands-on outdoor work with children.
Strong communication and collaborative skills.
Interest in, or willingness to learn, Waldorf education and child development.
Physical Requirements
This position includes substantial time outdoors throughout the school year and requires the ability to walk, kneel, lift up to 40 pounds, and participate in sustained physical work while safely supervising children. Occasional evening or weekend family stewardship events may be part of the role.
About Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor
Since 1980, RSSAA has grown into a vibrant Preschool–Grade 12 Waldorf school serving more than 275 students. Situated on 13 wooded acres just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor, our Lower School campus provides exceptional opportunities for outdoor learning, environmental stewardship, movement, and play. We believe education should engage the head, heart, and hands while nurturing curiosity, creativity, empathy, and initiative. Our community values collaboration, meaningful relationships, and honoring the dignity of every individual.
Why Join RSSAA?
As a member of our faculty, you'll become part of a community that:
Values authentic human connection and collaborative decision-making.
Supports professional growth and lifelong learning.
Encourages creativity, innovation, and thoughtful educational practice.
Is committed to meeting the needs of today's children while honoring the principles of Waldorf education.
Enjoys a beautiful campus and the cultural richness of the Ann Arbor community.
Compensation
This is a part-time position. Salary will be determined based on education, experience, and the final schedule.
To Apply
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and strongly encourage candidates from historically marginalized communities and those traditionally underrepresented in Waldorf schools to apply.
Please submit:
A cover letter describing your interest in the position and relevant experience.
A résumé or CV.
Contact information for three professional references.
Applications may be sent to Kim Likosky at [email protected]. For more information about Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor, please visit our website.
