Ignite HR Solutions and our Clients·Portola Valley, California
Create a safe, play-based classroom environment that supports children's social-emotional growth and curiosity. Collaborate with co-teachers and families while documenting learning to inform an emergent curriculum.
Early Childhood Educator Windmill School | Portola Valley, CA Full-Time (40 hrs) & Part-Time (30 hrs) Available $30–$34/hour (non-exempt, based on experience) About our client: Founded in the 1950s, Windmill School is a nonprofit preschool rooted in curiosity, connection, and respect for each child. Our nature-rich campus and emergent, play-based philosophy support children in becoming confident, capable learners—while fostering a strong sense of community among families and educators.
Windmill School is a play-based, community-centered preschool seeking warm, collaborative educators to join our team. We offer positions in both our Infant/Toddler (12–24 months, caregiver participation) and Preschool (ages 2–5) programs. Our approach is rooted in emergent curriculum, following children’s interests to nurture curiosity, creativity, and meaningful learning. If you value connection, reflection, and joyful classrooms, you’ll feel at home here. What You’ll Do Create a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment Support children’s social-emotional growth with gentle guidance Plan and implement play-based, interest-driven activities Observe and document children’s learning to inform curriculum Collaborate with co-teachers and contribute to a strong team environment Build positive, respectful relationships with families Supervise children indoors and outdoors Support daily routines (snack, toileting, transitions) Maintain an organized and inviting classroom
Minimum 12 ECE units required Preschool teaching experience required Understanding of child development and play-based learning Strong communication and teamwork skills Experience with observation and documentation preferred Must meet California Community Care Licensing requirements Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 lbs Ability to actively engage with young children throughout the day Schedule Monday–Friday between 8:00 am–5:30 pm 30-hour and 40-hour positions available Compensation & Benefits $30–$34/hour (non-exempt), based on experience Paid holidays Medical, dental, and vision insurance Retirement plan options Paid time off (for eligible employees) Professional development opportunities Supportive, collaborative work environment Apply Today We’d love to meet you! Please submit your resume and a brief introduction. Equal Opportunity Employer Windmill School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected status.
Candidates must have a minimum of 12 ECE units and previous preschool teaching experience. Must meet California Community Care Licensing requirements and be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
Market context
In California, early childhood educator roles at windmill schools are often in steady demand because programs need staff who meet state licensing standards and can support preschool classrooms. These positions are competitive when candidates already have the required 12 ECE units, prior preschool teaching experience, and the ability to meet Community Care Licensing and physical demands. Before applying, confirm your transcripts, licensing eligibility, and lifting capacity, and review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time comparing the original posting.