Kindergarten–2nd Grade Lead Teacher

Columbia Union Conference | Mountain View Conference

Join a School Where Faith, Learning, and Nature Come Together

Highland Adventist School has been providing innovative, Christ-centered education to north-central West Virginia since 1988. Located on a beautiful five-acre campus in the mountains surrounding Elkins, our school has earned a reputation for academic excellence, caring relationships, and creative approaches to learning.

Our campus includes four classrooms, a gymnasium, greenhouse, outdoor pavilion, and dedicated outdoor learning spaces. We are blessed with a team of four educators and outstanding support staff who work together to create a nurturing environment where students grow spiritually, academically, socially, and physically.

Elkins is a vibrant and growing community known as a gateway to some of the best outdoor recreation in the Appalachian region. Hiking, backpacking, kayaking, climbing, skiing, and mountain biking are all nearby, while the area's rich Appalachian arts and music scene provides year-round cultural opportunities.

Highland Adventist School is seeking a passionate, dedicated Kindergarten–2nd Grade Lead Teacher to lead our multi‑grade primary classroom. This unique position combines the best of traditional classroom instruction with our highly successful Muddy Boots Outdoor-Based Education (OBE) program.

At Highland Adventist School, you'll find more than a teaching position—you'll find a ministry. You'll join a supportive faculty committed to nurturing children's minds, hearts, and faith in a beautiful mountain community where outdoor adventure and Christian education naturally complement one another.

If you are passionate about helping young learners flourish through innovative education rooted in faith, we invite you to consider becoming part of the Highland Adventist School family.

• Lead a Kindergarten–2nd grade classroom with excellence in instruction and classroom management.
• Foster a Christ-centered learning environment where students grow spiritually as well as academically.
• Plan and deliver engaging lessons that meet the needs of multiple grade levels.
• Lead and oversee Highland's Muddy Boots Outdoor-Based Education program for early learners.
• Utilize outdoor experiences to enhance academic learning, creativity, problem‑solving, and appreciation for God's creation.
• Work collaboratively with fellow teachers and support staff as part of a unified educational team.
• Communicate effectively with parents regarding student growth and progress.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and encouraging learning environment both indoors and outdoors.

• Loves Jesus and models Christian character every day.
• Sees teaching as a ministry and a calling.
• Builds positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Inspires young children to discover God's world through both classroom learning and outdoor exploration.
• Brings energy, creativity, flexibility, and joy to the classroom.
• Thrives as part of a collaborative school family.

Please note, that because of the rigors of outdoor education, all applicants must be physically able to lead in that outdoor setting.

• A strong, active commitment to Jesus Christ and the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
• Membership in good standing with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
• Eligibility for Seventh-day Adventist teacher certification (or ability to obtain certification).
• Demonstrated success teaching young children, preferably in Kindergarten through 2nd grade.
• Strong classroom management and instructional skills.
• A proven record of helping students achieve strong academic outcomes.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A positive, flexible, servant‑hearted attitude.

• Denominational Certification.
• Experience with multi‑grade classrooms.
• Experience or training in outdoor education, nature-based learning, or experiential education.
• Familiarity with project-based or inquiry-based instructional methods.
• A passion for helping children develop confidence, curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning.

Candidates without prior outdoor education experience are encouraged to apply if they demonstrate enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and continue developing Highland's successful Muddy Boots program.