Villa Academy seeks a long-term substitute for one of our First Grade Teachers to join its team beginning September 30, 2024 and concluding March 21, 2025. The First Grade Teacher leads and guides one of two dedicated first grade classrooms at Villa, supporting whole-child student education as they navigate our inquiry-based curriculum. Energized by the opportunities of outdoor, experiential education, this classroom teacher role will enjoy access to our multi-acre outdoor space with wooded trails, a garden, an outdoor learning pavilion and a greenhouse. This is a temporary, long-term substitute position that follows the academic calendar, reporting to the Director of Lower School.

The ideal candidate is an experienced, enthusiastic, creative, and knowledgeable elementary educator who imparts a joyful, child-centered approach to learning. They will flourish amidst Villa Academy’s small class sizes and be able to reasonably differentiate the curriculum based on individual student needs. The candidate will be a generous collaborator, and effectively partner with faculty and staff. They will be devoted to students’ academic and social-emotional thriving and demonstrate strong classroom leadership. This candidate will be able to quickly form positive relationships with students and their families, as well as support First Grade student development.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Teach one of two First Grade classes, supported by a shared Instructional Assistant.
• Implement lesson plans that align with Villa Academy’s curriculum and standards using an inquiry-based approach.
• Support student behavior and establish classroom rules and expectations utilizing principles of Responsive Classroom.
• Integrate technology and hands-on activities to enhance learning experiences.
• Maintain a positive, safe, and organized classroom environment.
• Regularly assess, evaluate, and provide feedback on student performance, including conferencing with parents.
• Collaborate with the First Grade partner teacher and other colleagues to share best practices and improve instructional strategies.
• Participate in faculty/staff, grade level, and division meetings, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Commit to the mission, vision, and values of Villa Academy.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, or a related field; Master’s degree and/or teaching credential preferred.
• 3+ years of teaching experience with elementary-aged students.
• Strong knowledge of elementary education and teaching methodologies.
• Experience with differentiated instruction techniques to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Proficiency with instructional technology including document cameras, interactive whiteboards, web-based learning software, and Google apps.
• Genuine passion for teaching and a strong enthusiasm for helping students develop a love for learning.
• Excellent communication skills for working with students, parents, faculty/staff, and campus partners.
• Positive energy and enthusiasm for working in a Preschool through Eighth Grade, faith-based independent school.
• A commitment to ongoing professional growth, curiosity, cultural humility, and antiracism, as well as an understanding of its critical role in academic excellence and student growth.

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS:

Anticipated salary is $4,194.67/month for the six-month tenure. This position is not eligible for benefits.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please provide, via email to villa-hiring@thevilla.org, items listed below (preferably in one PDF document):

• A cover letter detailing interest in and readiness for the role, addressed to Dr. Liz Willis, Head of School.
• A current resume including relevant educational experience and three professional references.

Villa Academy is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal rules and regulations. Villa Academy does not discriminate in admission, access, treatment, or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, gender presentation, sex, sexual orientation, creed, age, national origin, marital status or ability.

About Villa Academy

Villa Academy is an inclusive independent school community dedicated to developing the whole child in the Cabrinian tradition of “education of the heart.” Through dynamic, inquiry-based learning, Villa Academy students become active agents of their own intellectual growth in preparation for lives of service and purpose.

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