The Community School for Place-based Education seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic and experienced field educator to coordinate and lead weekly outings for our three multiaged classes (grades 1-8), overnight experiences (grades 3-8, 1-3x/year) and all-school annual outings (3x/year) in collaboration with class teachers and subject area content.  This is a part-time, 15 hour/week position, beginning August 2026. 

The ideal candidate:

• Has a passion for Place-based teaching and learning;
• Is experienced in trip-leading and teaching outdoor leadership skills, both day-long and overnight in the front and backcountry;
• Is skilled at risk assessment and management;
• Has strong group dynamics and facilitation skills;
• Engages multiple ways of knowing into curriculum implementation and development;
• Possesses clear, confident and engaging communication skills, with strong organizational skills and attention to detail;
• Skilled in interpreting the natural and social landscapes of the Maine coast;
• Eager to engage with the social and natural ecology of Mount Desert Island and cultivate relationships with community partners;
• Embraces and values collaboration with current faculty, families, and our local community;
• Hold a current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or higher certification;
• Holds a current driver’s licence and clear driving record.  

Located along a tidal creek and 7o acre preserve in Somesville, Maine, the school occupies a historic farmhouse, barn, yurts, and a series of outdoor classroom spaces.   We are a state-certified independent school, incorporating a variety of teaching methods in our Place-Based model, cultivating a sense of self, place and community.  

Connection to one another and to the place we live is important to us and our learning.  We are a highly collaborative teaching community that practices mindful listening and makes decisions together. Both teachers and children are caretakers of the schoolhouse and property. Additionally, we extend our stewardship to the surrounding landscapes and communities of Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park and local land trust preserves.

Our academics are rooted in what is developmentally appropriate for each child. Small class sizes allow for a balance of collaborative and collective learning as well as individualized attention. Our “Expedition” unit is interdisciplinary, with a focus in the sciences and social studies. The Math Workshop, (based on Eureka Math) and Language Arts Workshop use active and engaging learning to explore math, reading, and writing. A weekly Outing and progression of outdoor leadership trips affords off-campus study and continued collaboration and stewardship with local people and places. Weekly specialty classes in Music, Handwork, and Ecology complement the curriculum and are taught by skilled educators within the local community. 

The Community School (TCS) is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals and employment decisions at TCS will be based on factors such as merit, qualifications and abilities.  TCS does not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Salary Range: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.