Emerson Waldorf School

Position Title: Early Childhood Lead Teacher

Responsible To: Early Childhood Chair 

Hours/week: 40 hours per week

Employment Classification: Exempt (Salaried)

Summary

The Early Childhood Lead Teacher understands Waldorf pedagogy and has an anthroposophical understanding of child development. They are committed to collaborating with innovative and engaged colleagues to create an educational environment aligned with Emerson Waldorf School’s program goals, mission, vision, and values. An enthusiasm for outdoor learning is essential.

The Early Childhood Lead Teacher creates a nurturing environment to support the young child’s healthy development, carrying out classroom and program activities, communicating and partnering with parents, and attending faculty meetings. 

Job Responsibilities

CLASSROOM RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement developmentally appropriate activities and practical tasks aligned with Waldorf pedagogy and EWS curriculum guidelines.

• Create a warm, inviting classroom environment that fosters a sense of security, creativity, and wonder.

• Create a daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythm in collaboration with the Early Childhood faculty to provide a unified program.

• Develop and implement a play-based, age-appropriate curriculum with circle time, story, song, and artistic and practical activities.

• Support the social-emotional development of the young child through nurturing relationships, respectful interactions, and modeling behavior.

• Create a supportive environment that allows for each child’s growing independence.

• Collaborate with colleagues to support each child’s healthy development and well-being.

• Assess the evolving needs of each child in the class. Consult with the Educational Support Director, make referrals as needed and implement agreed-upon support plans.

• Train and oversee the work of Assistant Teachers.

• Support Assistant Teachers with regular meetings and modeling the Waldorf developmental approach.

• Build a healthy working relationship with parents to bridge school life and family culture.

• Facilitate professional, warm, and clear communication with parents and colleagues.

• Foster a sense of community and respect among students, parents, and colleagues.

• Communicate regularly with families through daily interactions at drop-off or pick-up and through email. 

• Collaborate with colleagues to plan and participate in school festivals, community events, and parent education programs.

• Maintain a clean, orderly, and aesthetically pleasing environment in the classrooms and shared spaces.

• Demonstrate a calm, welcoming, and inclusive presence—model kindness, warmth, and compassion. 

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend weekly Early Childhood faculty meetings.

• Schedule check-in meetings with Assistant Teachers weekly and as needed.

• Attend monthly full colleague meetings and all in-service days

• Attend faculty orientation week and the end-of-year workweek.

• Represent the Early Childhood at EWS fairs, workshops, and school events as required.

• Participate in committee work as needed.

• Conduct Parent-Teacher Conferences 2x/year.

• Conduct parent meetings 4x/year.

• Work with a mentor or speaking partner regularly.

• Maintain excellent collegial relations.

• Acquire materials and supplies as needed for the classroom, working within your yearly budget.

• Engage in professional development opportunities and reflective practice to continuously enhance teaching skills and knowledge of child development and stay current with Waldorf early childhood education as it evolves.

• Support Admissions with the enrollment process.

• Document all accidents and incidents.

• Arrange for a substitute in your absence. Request any absences, excluding illnesses, in advance with the Early Childhood Chair. 

• Undertake playground and other supervision duties as required.

• Maintain CPR/First Aid Certification and Mandated Reporter Training.

• Maintain confidentiality about a child or family situation with discretion and tact.

• Represent EWS professionally and comply with school policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Family Handbook. 

Skills & Qualifications

Core Competencies:

• A deep interest in child development as seen through the lens of the work of Rudolf Steiner, founder of Waldorf education

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Patience, empathy, and the ability to establish positive relationships with students, colleagues, and parents

• Enthusiasm for outdoor learning

• Flexibility and adaptability to work in a dynamic educational environment

• Self-motivated, willingness to be a team player, and has a strong sense of personal responsibility

Education & Experience: 

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent

• Completion of a Waldorf Early Childhood teacher training program

• Lead Teaching Experience in a Waldorf Early Childhood classroom 

Other:

• Able to lift up to 25 lbs

• Have mobility required to ensure safety of children and to navigate wooded areas and uneven dirt paths

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

• Have visual and hearing capabilities that allow consistent supervision of children

• Ability to work on-site; position is not eligible for remote/hybrid work

• Ability to successfully pass and maintain all background checks 

• Ability to successfully attend training for and maintain First Aid & CPR certification

Salary & Benefits

• Salary between $41,000-$54,000 based on experience

• 10 days of paid sick/personal leave

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans

• Tuition Remission 

• 403(b) Retirement Program

• Professional Development Funds 

• Employee Assistance Program

To apply: 

Submit cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Patricia Cornell: pcornell@emersonwaldorf.org

Responsible To: Director of Education

Hours/week: 40 hours per week (Full-Time)

Employment Classification: Exempt (Salaried)

Summary

The Early Childhood-4th Grade Counselor/Student Services Coordinator will provide social-emotional support in EC-4th Grade and  coordinate continuity of service and support from EC-8th Grade and into High School

Job Responsibilities

• Provide counseling for EC-4th grade children and families/guardians to help address behavioral and learning challenges through careful observation and assessment where appropriate

• Create, review, and update behavioral plans for EC-4th grade students, along with keeping records

• Provide parent education regarding practices for nurturing social-emotional health for the young child through the early grades

• Coordinate on-campus tutoring program

• Coordinate Education Support Direct Services

• Provide administrative support  as Coordinator for the Student Support Team that includes :maintaining a records system that includes Educational Support files: reports for observations, assessments, class screenings, and outside evaluations; communications for parents/guardians of students receiving accommodations (non-SSP), Student Support Plans, behavioral plans and behavioral log documentation.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in a counseling program or equivalent

• Current North Carolina counseling license or equivalent

• Previous counseling experience with Early Childhood- 4th Grade students preferred

Other: 

• Able to lift up to 25 lbs

• Have mobility required to ensure safety of children

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

• Have visual and hearing capabilities that allow consistent supervision of children

• Ability to work on-site; position is not eligible for remote/hybrid work

• Ability to successfully pass and maintain all background checks

• Ability to successfully attend training for and maintain First Aid & CPR certification

Salary & Benefits

• Salary between $41,000-$55,000 based on experience

• 10 days of paid sick/personal leave

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans

• 403(b) Retirement Program

• Professional Development Funds

• Employee Assistance Program

To apply:

Submit cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Colleen Everhart: ceverhart@emersonwaldorf.org

Responsible To: Grades Chair/Co-Chairs

Hours/week: 8 classes per week (Part-Time)

Employment Classification: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Summary

The Middle School woodworking teacher leads students in 6th Grade and 7th Grade in the implementation of hand tools and the techniques needed to complete increasingly complex projects in a safe manner. Additionally, they emphasize the uniqueness of various wood types and the stewardship needed to work in communion with nature.

Job Responsibilities

TEACHING DUTIES:

• Meet with each grade two times a week for a single/double period for the duration of the school year

• Introduce and demonstrate proper usage of hand tools emphasizing safety and teamwork

• Implement EWS woodworking curriculum based on the needs of the students as well as the EWS community, such as useful things for the Farm, projects for school beautification, making tools for woodworking projects that can be shared with other woodworking classes, etc. 

• Teach the proper care of tools, such as sharpening, honing, oiling, etc.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES:

• Ensure tools and workspaces are in good working order

• Sharpen constantly

Skills & Qualifications

Core Competencies:

• Proficient in carpentry and woodworking 

• Effective communication and classroom management skills

• Safety conscious

• Ability to be flexible and adjust to the needs of students, projects, and changing classroom environments

• Effective time management and organization

Education & Experience: 

• High School Diploma or equivalent, Bachelor’s degree preferred

• Experience in professional woodwork, experience in Waldorf Schools preferred

Other: 

• Able to lift up to 25 lbs

• Have mobility required to ensure safety of children

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

• Have visual and hearing capabilities that allow consistent supervision of children

• Ability to work on-site; position is not eligible for remote/hybrid work

• Ability to successfully pass and maintain all background checks
  

Salary & Benefits

• Hourly salary of $35.00 per class

• 2 days of paid sick/personal leave

• Professional Development Funds 

• Employee Assistance Program

To apply: 

Submit cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Malina Stoychev: mstoychev@emersonwaldorf.org

Emerson Waldorf School is seeking an Early Childhood Coordinator. This is a half-time, salaried position with growth potential.

The Early Childhood Coordinator is integral to the school’s collaborative leadership structure, representing the Early Childhood faculty and program. Guided by our school’s core mission, vision, and values, the Coordinator supports the EC faculty in their day-to-day work and guides the overall goals of our Early Childhood program. As part of school Leadership, the Coordinator works within our collaborative leadership model and serves on the Administrative and Leadership Teams.

The ideal candidate has:
• Waldorf Teacher or Administrative Training

• A Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent is preferred
• Waldorf teaching and leadership experience
• A demonstrated understanding and commitment to Waldorf Education and Anthroposophy.

• Commitment to the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of the Emerson Waldorf School
• An openness and enthusiasm for fostering a diverse school community and developing open relationships with community organizations
• An interest in supporting curriculum innovation to advance Waldorf Education
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency with Google applications, Microsoft Office, ParentSquare, Zoom, and other operating systems to support administrative work

Please submit a letter of interest, resume, and two references to: Patricia Cornell at pcornell@emersonwaldorf.org

This job requires US work authorization. If hired, a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, must be completed at the start of employment.

The Emerson Waldorf School has openings for Part-Time Early Childhood Teacher’s Assistants to join our early childhood faculty.

The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in Waldorf education and a desire to work with a team of experienced early childhood educators. Our mixed-age classes serve children ages 3 - 6. The teacher's assistant participates in all aspects of the work to meet the needs of the children and the program at the direction of the lead teacher. Some responsibilities include assisting in the care of the children, assisting in maintaining a clean and orderly learning environment, snack preparation, and attending some faculty meetings. This candidate is organized and self-motivated, connects easily with young children, and has a love for outdoor education.

This is a part-time, hourly position. The job is 5 days/week. Additional hours may include meetings and training.

To Apply, send a letter of interest, resume, and two professional reference contacts to:

Patricia Cornell

pcornell@emersonwaldorf.org

The Emerson Waldorf School has openings Full-Time Early Childhood Teacher’s Assistants to join our early childhood faculty for the 2025-2026 school year.

The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in Waldorf education and a desire to work with a team of experienced early childhood educators. Our mixed-age classes serve children ages 3 - 6. The teacher's assistant participates in all aspects of the work to meet the needs of the children and the program at the direction of the lead teacher. Some responsibilities include assisting in the care of the children, assisting in maintaining a clean and orderly learning environment, snack preparation, and attending some faculty meetings. This candidate is organized and self-motivated, connects easily with young children, and has a love for outdoor education.

This is a full-time, hourly position. The job is 5 days/week, 8:00 am—4:00 pm. Additional hours may include meetings and training.

To Apply, send a letter of interest, resume, and two professional reference contacts to:

Patricia Cornell

pcornell@emersonwaldorf.org

EWS is seeking to rebuild its K-12th grade eurythmy program. We have a dedicated eurythmy room with a sprung floor, a vibrant student body, supportive colleagues, and a culture where eurythmy is well-respected.

Performance opportunities are available.

We are seeking an experienced eurythmy teacher who has demonstrated success in teaching a variety of grade levels and is interested in joining the Emerson Waldorf School in our efforts toward school innovation in the areas of diversity and equity, ready to help reimagine our Waldorf school to create a more inclusive and equitable school program and environment. Such individuals will model artistry, dynamism, groundedness, flexibility, empathy, initiative, and great collaborative skills. The candidate should demonstrate proficiency and comfort with classroom management as well as the imagination and artistry necessary for eurythmic work.

Full-time responsibilities include (note: responsibilities for guest eurythmy teachers would be decided on a case-by-case basis):
• Teach a full-time eurythmy curriculum to a variety of grades in middle school, and high school.
• Offer performances of student work and contribute to festivals/plays.
• Attend scheduled meetings
• Collaborate with student support services and colleagues.
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians and colleagues.

Qualifications:
• Pedagogical training and a eurythmy diploma recognized by the Goetheanum
• Successful experience teaching different age groups
• Commitment to Waldorf principles and philosophy

If you would like to join our exceptional faculty, please email a resume, cover letter, and three references to Colleen Everhart at ceverhart@emersonwaldorf.org

This job requires US work authorization. If hired, a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, must be completed at the start of employment.

Responsible To: Director of Administration

This position is open beginning August 11, 2025.

Hours/week: 12.5 Hours (Part-Time)

Employment Classification: Non-Exempt

Summary:

The After Care Teacher offers supervision and care to 1 st -8 th Grade students during the After Care program (offered on school days from 3:15pm until 5:45pm). Our After School program serves working parents who want their children to receive quality afternoon care. The program emphasizes outdoor play time, relaxing and unwinding for the children after their school day.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and modify After Care activities to meet the academic, physical, and socio-emotional needs of students

• Monitors appropriate use and care of materials

• Create and supervise activities and games that align with Waldorf pedagogical principles

• Present classroom procedures and rules with clarity and support children in following them

• Monitor outdoor time with a focus on safety, cooperative play, and fun

• Observation and record keeping (attendance logs, behavior, etc.)

• Monitor and assist students with snack time and clean up

• Leaves the classroom spaces clean and secure at the end of the day

• Keep confidential information about students and families

• Perform light cleaning duties

• Maintain First Aid/CPR certification

• Performs other duties as assigned

Skills & Qualifications:

Core Competencies:

• Clear communicator

• Critical thinking skills

• Creativity

• Leadership skills

• Good time management

Education & Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred

• Basic familiarity with Waldorf pedagogical principles

• Experience working with school aged children

• Before/After School care experience preferred

Other:

• Able to lift up to 50 lbs

• Have mobility required to ensure safety of children

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

• Have visual and hearing capabilities that allow consistent supervision of children

• Ability to work on-site; position is not eligible for remote/hybrid work

• Ability to successfully pass and maintain all background checks

To apply: 

Submit cover letter, resume, and three professional references to mfridman@emersonwaldorf.org

The Emerson Waldorf School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is seeking part-time, hourly Substitute Teachers in the Early Childhood, Grade School, or High School. We prefer applicants with a college degree and teaching experience. We also prefer that our applicants have an understanding of child development and an ability to create a positive learning environment.

If you would like to be considered for a substitute position, please mail or email a resume and cover letter to Patrica Cornell pcornell@emersonwaldorf.org for Early Childhood; Linda Wertz lwert@emersonwaldorf.org for Grade School.

Emerson Waldorf School is fully committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and to attracting, retaining, developing and promoting the most qualified employees without regard to their race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited by state or local law.  We are dedicated to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment, and where employees are treated with respect and dignity. 

Emerson Waldorf School, 6211 New Jericho Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516