• Preschool Teacher

    Berkeley, CA
    🟢 Applications open (Updated April 2026)

    Seeking a preschool teacher for our joyful, play-based community.

    Email us your resume and cover letter

  • Dandelion Co-op Nursery School has been a parent cooperative preschool in Berkeley since 1973. The school is seeking an experienced teacher to work with preschoolers on a teaching team supported by parents. Our teachers partner closely with families in a true co-op model. You’ll work alongside engaged parents, guiding both children and adults with warmth, clarity, and respect.

    We believe play is the heart of early learning. From art and music to cooking and caring for animals, our classrooms are designed to spark curiosity, build social-emotional skills, and support each child’s growing independence, empathy, and voice.

    Our cooperative model is rooted in collaboration, with teachers and parents working side by side to support each child’s growth. A key part of this role is mentoring parents as they participate in the classroom. This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who enjoys modeling child-centered practices and building strong relationships with families.

    The Role: Mentoring & Creating

    A key part of this role is mentoring parents as they participate in the classroom. This is a wonderful opportunity for an educator who enjoys modeling child-centered practices and building deep, lasting relationships.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Support Play: Facilitate social development, including problem-solving and conflict resolution.
    • Curate Curriculum: Design and implement a play-based, emergent curriculum.
    • Lead Adults: Partner with and guide parent volunteers in the daily flow of the classroom.
    • Build Community: Participate in our vibrant school life, including two monthly evening meetings and four seasonal Saturday events.

    What You Bring:

    • Education: 12+ ECE units required (BA with 24 units preferred). Core coursework must include Child Development, Curriculum, and Health & Safety.
    • Child Development Expertise: Strong understanding of child development and the principles of early childhood education.
    • Experience: 2+ years of preschool teaching experience.
    • Mindset: A commitment to the parent cooperative model and child-centered education.
    • Certification: CPR/First Aid (or willingness to obtain before starting).

    Logistics & Compensation

    • Salary: Starts at $28/hour (commensurate with experience).
    • Schedule: Approximately 22 hours/week.
      • Preferred: Mon, Tue, Fri (8:30 – 2:15) & Thu (12:30 – 3:30).
    • Benefits: Retirement contributions, Medical reimbursement, and Paid Time Off/Sick Leave.
    • Calendar: Follows the BUSD school calendar + 4-week summer session.
    • Start Date: August 15, 2026 (Optional onboarding in July).
    • Culture: A supportive and collaborative teaching environment within a dedicated co-op community.

    Ready to join the Dandelion family?

    Please send a resume and a brief cover letter to: president@dandelionnurseryschool.org

    Dandelion is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and beliefs.

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Dandelion Nursery School
941 The Alameda
Berkeley, CA 94707
(510) 526-1735
info@dandelionnurseryschool.org

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