PRESCHOOL TEACHER-RESEARCHER

Location: Richmond, VA
Job Category:
  Full-time, Faculty and Instructional Staff

Classification: Exempt

Department: Preschool

Start Date: 2026-2027 School Year


POSITION DESCRIPTION


Sabot School, a progressive preschool–Grade 8 school in Richmond and a leader in the Reggio Emilia Approach®, seeks a Preschool Co-Teacher-Researcher.


This role supports instruction in a Preschool classroom, through a collaborative, inquiry-based, and Reggio Emilia-inspired approach. Working as a co-teaching team, the Teacher-Researchers collaborate to facilitate a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment focused on the whole child.


Instruction is delivered through an emergent curriculum rooted in theReggio Emilia Approach™. As a Teacher-Researcher, this position offers an opportunity to work in a deeply collaborative environment where teaching is viewed as an ongoing process of research, reflection, and relationship-building.

TO APPLY


Interested candidates should click the link below to submit the following materials.


Be sure to list the position in the "position applying for" field.


  • Letter of interest
  • Resume
  • Contact information for three professional references
Click Here to Apply

ESSENTIAL TASKS


  • Collaborate with their Co-Teacher-Researcher to create an engaging classroom environment to include developmentally-appropriate experiences and activities based on the children’s interests;
  • Collaborate with their Co-Teacher-Researcher and Atelieristas to guide inquiry-driven projects with a focus on fostering student curiosity and joy of learning; 
  • Build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with students, families, colleagues, and community partners, promoting equity, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging;
  • Support classroom management and student well-being through supervision, proactive engagement, clear expectations, and respectful communication;
  • Demonstrate understanding of the Reggio Emilia Approach® or an eagerness to learn about the approach;
  • Co-teach in a respectful, collaborative partnership with a Co-Teacher-Researcher;
  • Support an emergent curriculum and student-centered learning;
  • Demonstrate familiarity with child development and supporting children’s social-emotional growth;
  • Engage in ongoing professional reflection and growth;
  • Support a diverse community of learners with cultural responsiveness and humility;
  • Ensure compliance with Preschool licensing requirements;
  • Assist children with activities of daily living, including restroom needs, mobility, and rest time;
  • Participates in school-wide service responsibilities, including conferences, meetings, events, field trips, and admissions activities and events, including occasional evening or weekend commitments;

QUALIFICATIONS


Education & Experience

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Education or a related field.
  • Experience: Prior experience working with elementary-age children, ideally within a classroom or school-based setting—and preferably in a progressive or Reggio Emilia-inspired environment.


SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to successfully pass a background check.


GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Willingness to participate fully in a dynamic day school environment in Richmond, Virginia.
  • Demonstrates professionalism and serves as a role model by modeling honesty, accountability, understanding, tolerance, respect, love, and kindness for students.
  • Develops and maintains professional, collaborative, and collegial relationships with faculty, staff, and community partners for the benefit of students and classes.
  • Demonstrates professionalism, engagement, and kindness toward all children and families, regardless of race, religion, nationality, abilities, familial status, gender identity, or gender expression.
  • Exhibits excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Establishes effective communication and relationships with students and parents.
  • Displays curiosity, a positive attitude, flexibility, and a good sense of humor.
  • Demonstrates creativity and flexibility in teaching practices, with a growth mindset toward professional goals and development.
  • Guides students in discovery and understanding, fostering the development of reflective thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Exhibits excellent time management skills, completing reports and tasks in a timely and professional manner.
  • Multi-tasks effectively, remains calm under pressure, and treats everyone with respect.
  • Remains responsible for the supervision of students during classes and at all times while on or in Larus Park.
  • Adheres to all policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook and Community Guide.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS


  • Ability to stand, walk, and move around for extended periods during supervision and activities, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Ability to lift and carry materials or equipment weighing up to 15 lbs.
  • Capability to walk up and down two flights of stairs.
  • Ability to respond promptly to emergencies, which may involve running, lifting, or assisting children to safety.
  • Alertness and ability to supervise children during physical activities, such as outdoor play, while ensuring a safe environment.

SABOT SCHOOL'S MISSION STATEMENT


Grounded in inquiry and empathy, Sabot School nurtures joyful learners – resilient individuals who grow as their authentic selves while meeting challenges with confidence.


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