Independence was founded in 1978 by parents seeking a challenging education that would be strong in the academic areas, arts, foreign languages, and athletics. Today, the school occupies a 90-acre campus in the Pike Creek Valley (near Hockessin, Newark, and Wilmington, Cecil County, MD, and Southeastern Chester County, PA), and features state of the art facilities and outdoor classrooms. 
The Independence School, an independent day school welcoming children age 3 through 8th Grade, provides an exceptionally strong academic foundation and so much more.  At Independence, students learn to think for themselves. They learn independence. Our school mission, beliefs, and core values guide us to ensure we offer students an unparalleled educational experience, opportunities for leadership and a welcoming community for the entire family.

We encourage you to learn more about our school. Please click the link below.
https://www.theindependenceschool.org/about-us/employment-opportunities

Lower School Teacher - 1st Grade
Direct Supervisor: Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
FLSA: Exempt
Type: Full-Time Faculty Employee

The 1st Grade Teacher is a creative, passionate, and student-centered educator who demonstrates superior and current knowledge of elementary education and best practices. This teacher is dedicated to fostering a love of learning while developing foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth. They elicit engaging, hands-on, and meaningful learning experiences for all students.

Professional Attributes

• High energy and enthusiasm with the ability to learn quickly, make an immediate impact, and implement new initiatives

• Flexibility and openness to work on a variety of assignments 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, displaying the ability to connect and build relationships with employees, students, and parents  

• Confidence in professional aptitude, with the ability to effectively convey skills and knowledge

• Positive team player with a strong desire to be an active, long-term participant in the growth of the School

• Supports and aligns with the School’s philosophy, mission, values, and policies

• Commitment to fostering and supporting a safe and healthy atmosphere and an inclusive community

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that align with the School’s elementary curriculum and standards

• Teach core subjects such as reading, writing, math, and social studies using a variety of methods, including hands-on exploration, discussion, explicit instruction, and integration of technology

• Differentiate instruction to meet the academic and developmental needs of all students

• Assess student progress using observations, data from online platforms, and various assessments; provide timely and constructive feedback to students and their parents/guardians

• Create a positive and supportive classroom environment that promotes student engagement, independence, and collaboration

• Incorporate social-emotional learning and character development into daily routines and lessons

• Collaborate with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects and activities

• Communicate effectively with families, providing updates on student progress and classroom activities

• Attend meetings, participate in school-wide events, and pursue professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date on evidence-based practices in elementary education

• Utilize the 90-acre campus as an extension of the classroom for hands-on exploration and learning opportunities.

• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills, Knowledge, and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or above in elementary education or a related field

• At least 2 years of experience teaching at the elementary school level, preferably in 1st grade or a similar age group

• Possesses a strong understanding of child development and learning progressions to effectively support students' academic, social, and emotional growth.

• Demonstrates an understanding of research-based instructional practices, including the Science of Reading, to support literacy development and student achievement.

• Excellent classroom management skills that promote a positive learning environment

• Strong organizational and planning skills with attention to detail

• Aptitude to learn new systems, software, and platforms, including student information systems

• Comfortable in a Windows environment and with Google Workspace/MS Office.

• High level of confidentiality and discretion

The 1st Grade Teacher is a 10-month position and follows the academic calendar.

12/15/25

The Independence School prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

About The Independence School

The Independence School, located on 90 acres in the Pike Creek Valley, provides an exceptionally strong academic foundation, delivered in a stimulating environment that reflects a strong commitment to citizenship and character development. Independence graduates are academically successful, intellectually curious, and demonstrate leadership and self-responsibility. The school welcomes children age 3 through grade 8.

Connections working at The Independence School