Our Team
School Philosophy and Teacher Role
Play Mountain Place is a humanistic alternative school. We respect children and trust development to proceed at each child's own pace. Emotional and social growth matters as much as physical and intellectual growth. Teachers listen to feelings, help children find safe outlets, and model non-authoritarian conflict resolution. They work in teams with parents.
Nursery Teachers
When we hire, we look for teachers experienced with children ages 2 ½ to 6 years old, or deeply committed to this philosophy. Teaching experience and units in early childhood education are preferred.
Elementary Teachers
For elementary positions, the school looks for teachers experienced with children ages 6 to 11, or strongly committed to this philosophy. Teaching experience or training in elementary education is strongly preferred. To find out whether positions are open, and details like salary, visit the school to observe the program; a visit is a required step in the application process. Call (323) 870-4381 to ask about openings.
Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy
Play Mountain Place promotes inclusion and appreciates the value of all people. The school does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, race, religion or creed, gender, culture, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identification, or socio-economic background. This applies to admission, hiring, educational policies, financial aid, and other school-administered programs.
What this looks like in practice
Teachers work with children at their own pace, honoring feelings as part of the day. Both child-initiated and teacher-offered activities make up the curriculum. Teachers listen, help children find safe outlets for feelings, and model non-authoritarian conflict resolution that respects differences.
Because teachers work closely with parents, family relationships feel personal and close. Teachers help children name feelings and find safe outlets, then work toward solutions by consensus and agreement. Teachers in teams practice respectful communication and shared decision-making, which children carry into friendships at home.
