WHO WE ARE

birdhouse is a new kind of early-learning program built inside a beautifully renovated townhouse in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, complete with a large private yard. We blend the warmth of a home with the rigor of a modern early childhood program — Reggio-inspired, play-based, and rooted in Conscious Discipline principles of safety, connection, and co-regulation. Our goal is to help children (our “birdies”) feel deeply safe, seen, and celebrated.

Our program is supported by our Head of Education, Chazz Lewis (aka “Mr. Chazz”; @mrchazz), a nationally recognized early childhood educator known for making Conscious Discipline practical, joyful, and transformative for teachers. Birdhouse values connection, child-led exploration, rituals, community, reflective practice, and loving excellence.

THE BIRDHOUSE MODEL

• Birdhouse transforms Brooklyn townhouses into small early childhood programs, creating intimate, home-based learning environments for children.
• Our lead teacher lives on-site, completely rent-free, in a private two-bedroom luxury apartment located on the floor above the classroom. The apartment is located in the heart of Williamsburg and has an estimated market rental value of approximately $6,000 per month.

This arrangement allows teachers to live comfortably in one of Brooklyn’s most desirable neighborhoods while maintaining clear separation between living space and classroom space that gives work-from-home capabilities.

WHO YOU ARE

You are an experienced early childhood educator with strong training and leadership experience in play-based, responsive, inquiry-driven classrooms. You have experience in Reggio Emilia–inspired, progressive, Montessori, or other constructivist early childhood programs, and understand how to design learning environments that evolve from children’s interests.

You have experience supporting ages 2–5, including social development, language growth, executive functioning, and the foundations of kindergarten readiness.

Strong candidates typically have:

• 5+ years of experience leading early childhood classrooms
• Deep experience with play-based, Reggio-inspired, or inquiry-based teaching approaches
• Experience working in mixed-age classrooms
• Strong knowledge of child development ages 2–5
• Passion for social-emotional learning and conflict resolution
• A degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (preferred)
• Experience with Conscious Discipline or similar SEL frameworks is highly valued.

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

As the Lead Teacher at birdhouse, you are not only guiding a classroom — you are helping lead and steward a small program as a community leader. You will shape the rhythm and culture of the day, design learning experiences, mentor assistant teachers, and care for the learning environment while working closely with a small team.

While this role carries meaningful ownership, you will be supported by our Head of Education and birdhouse leadership team, who manage licensing, enrollment, operations, and administrative systems.

Classroom Leadership

• Lead a mixed-age classroom of 12 children ages 2–5
• Design and guide the daily rhythm including play, meals, outdoor time, rest, and transitions
• Create engaging learning experiences rooted in curiosity, play, and exploration

Child Development & Learning

• Observe children closely and respond to their interests and developmental needs
• Facilitate provocations, projects, and learning experiences inspired by children’s ideas
• Support development from toddlerhood through kindergarten readiness

Social-Emotional Development

• Use Conscious Discipline practices to support regulation, connection, and conflict resolution
• Help children develop empathy, communication skills, and self-awareness

Team Leadership

• Work closely with and coach assistant teachers
• Maintain a calm, organized classroom culture
• Participate in coaching and professional development with our Head of Education
• Preserve the calm, organized, and thoughtful birdhouse brand

Family Partnerships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with families
• Lead parent conferences and monthly write-ups
• Foster a warm and collaborative classroom community where parents are our partners

Stewardship of the Space

• Maintain a beautiful, organized learning environment
• Curate materials that encourage exploration and independence
• Help ensure the home-based center runs smoothly, including greeting contractors or coordinating access to the space when needed
• Safety-proof checks

REQUIREMENTS & CERTIFICATIONS

• Ability to follow safety guidelines and classroom routines
• MAT (Medication Administration Training)
• CPR / First Aid certification
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs
• Comfortable bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and moving through an active classroom
• Comfortable being outdoors with children in varying weather

SALARY & BENEFITS

• Base Salary: $66,300
• Free Apartment: This role also includes a private two-bedroom Williamsburg apartment provided completely rent-free, located on a separate floor from the classroom. Comparable apartments in Williamsburg typically rent for $5,000–$6,000 per month, representing approximately $60,000–$72,000 in annual housing value.
• Estimated total compensation value: $126,000–$138,000 annually (salary + housing value).

Additional benefits include:

• Health insurance
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
• Ongoing coaching and professional development with our Head of Education
• Opportunity to help shape a new model of early childhood education