Kindergarten/Grade 1 Head Teacher (Parental Leave Coverage)

January - June 2026

About Cold Spring School 

Cold Spring School is a progressive, independent day school in New Haven, Connecticut, serving approximately 150 students in Preschool through Grade 6. Since its founding, CSS has embraced multi-age, inquiry-based classrooms where children’s voices, curiosities, and questions are central to the learning process. Our integrated curriculum connects language arts, math, science, and social studies with social justice, diversity, and inclusion, while also prioritizing social-emotional development. We are accredited by the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools (CAIS). 

Cold Spring School seeks a Kindergarten/Grade 1 Head Teacher to cover a parental leave from January through June 2026 in our K/1 mixed-grade classroom.

Each class at Cold Spring enrolls no more than 22 students and is led by two full-time educators: a Head Teacher and an Associate Teacher. Our classrooms are designed to provide a warm, nurturing environment that supports joyful, immersive, inquiry-based learning and the development of the whole child.

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in education, child development, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum of 4 years classroom teaching experience at the elementary level
• Expertise in literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies instruction
• Demonstrated ability to differentiate instruction and support diverse learning needs
• Strong communication skills with students, families, and colleagues
• Comfort with technology, including Google Workspace for Education

Responsibilities

• Design and implement progressive, child-centered curriculum in literacy, math, and thematic studies (combining science and social studies)
• Partner with the Associate Teacher to facilitate small-group instruction and individualized learning
• Incorporate students’ questions and interests into thematic, inquiry-based projects
• Use formal and informal assessments to guide instruction and communicate progress
• Write comprehensive progress reports and conduct parent conferences during the coverage period
• Collaborate with colleagues across grade levels and disciplines, including special area teachers and student support staff
• Engage in ongoing professional learning and contribute positively to the faculty community

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $50,000–$60,000 per year (commensurate with experience, pro-rated for the employment period)
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health/dental/vision insurance, paid leave, and tuition remission during the employment period

To Apply

Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to:
Annie Ladd-Smith
Director of Events & Enrichment Programs
[email protected]

Cold Spring School is an equal opportunity employer.  We value diversity and are committed to equity in recruitment and retention. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.