A visionary, child-centered elementary microschool on the stunning Sonoma-Mendocino Coast is seeking an inspired Founding Lead Teacher to co-create something truly extraordinary. Nestled in the artistic coastal town of Gualala, CA, this brand-new program will launch with a small, mixed-age cohort (ages 5–9) and grow intentionally over time. Rooted in experiential, nature-connected, and inquiry-driven learning, this is not your average classroom — it’s an invitation to reimagine what school can be. You’ll have the rare opportunity to design curriculum, shape school culture, and guide joyful, real-world learning in a close-knit, creative community. The program builds on the success of The Forager School’s beloved nature-based preschool and will emphasize STEAM integration, outdoor exploration, social-emotional development, and creative problem-solving.
In this role, you will:
- Design and lead an interdisciplinary, hands-on curriculum that blends literacy, math, science, and the arts
- Cultivate a warm, inclusive classroom culture where each child feels seen, valued, and inspired to grow
- Lead outdoor learning, inquiry-based investigations, and regular field experiences
- Collaborate with an assistant teacher, specialist educators (e.g., music, foreign language, engineering), and an engaged leadership team
- Forge meaningful partnerships with local artists, scientists, makers, and mentors to enrich the learning journey
- Build lasting relationships with families and help shape the evolving vision of the school from the ground up
LOCATION: Gualala, CA (Sonoma-Mendocino Coast)
START DATE: July 2025
COMPENSATION: $90,000+, depending on experience (based on the academic school year)
BENEFITS:
- Paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays
- 50% coverage for health, dental, and vision insurance
- Relocation assistance + housing stipend
- Ongoing professional development
- Participation in a retirement program
You might be a great fit for this incredible community if you have experience teaching core elementary subjects in mixed-age settings, thrive in creative, start-up environments and enjoy collaboration, and love designing learning experiences that spark wonder and student agency. You’re passionate about progressive education, nature-based learning, and STEAM, and you bring both flexibility and structure to your work with children and colleagues. Most of all, you’re ready to dream big, get your hands dirty, and help build something meaningful. Are you ready to build the school of your dreams — and theirs?!
Ready to take the leap?
To apply, please submit your resume below and email your responses to the following two prompts to elyse@westsidenannies.com:
- Tell us about a lesson you were excited about that flopped. What happened, and how did you pivot to meet your students’ needs?
- Share an interdisciplinary project you’re proud of. What made it successful, and what would you do differently next time?