Posted: 27-Mar-26
Location: Henrico, Virginia
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Required Education:
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- Resume
- Cover letter
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- Certifications (If applicable)
Job Title: Physical Education Lead Specialty Teacher
Supervisor’s Title: Directors of Elementary and Middle School
Employee Classification: Full-time, salaried, 10-month, faculty, non-exempt
General Schedule: 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with possible additional hours as needed to fulfill after-school coaching/activity responsibilities as assigned
Position Summary
The Physical Education Teacher is responsible for planning and delivering a comprehensive physical education program that promotes lifelong health, physical fitness, teamwork, and positive sportsmanship. This role supports the school’s mission by helping students develop physical confidence, body awareness, and healthy habits in a safe and inclusive environment.
The Physical Education Teacher collaborates closely with classroom teachers, administrators, and support staff to ensure physical education complements the broader educational experience. This position models professionalism, supports student well-being, contributes positively to school culture, and maintains a safe and engaging environment for all students.
Required Duties for Physical Education and Health Lead Specialty Teacher
- Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate physical education instruction for students across grade levels.
- For Early Childhood (ages 3-6), collaborate with the Music Teacher to deliver a Music and Movement class.
- For Elementary classes (grades 1 through 6), guide elementary-aged children (ages 6-12) in their physical education with the assistance of an adult from their regular classroom. Also lead a health course for upper elementary students.
- For Middle School classes (grades 7 & 8), guide early adolescents (ages 12-14) in physical education and lead a health course for middle school students annually.
- Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate health and well-being classes for upper elementary and middle school students.
- Support the development of independent social skills and manage behavior by modeling and implementing Montessori philosophy and Positive Discipline approaches that uphold dignity, mutual respect, and self-regulation.
- Design lessons that promote physical fitness, motor skill development, teamwork, and healthy lifestyle habits.
- Implement a balanced curriculum including fitness, movement skills, games, cooperative activities, and sports fundamentals.
- Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse developmental levels, abilities, and learning needs of students.
- Establish and maintain clear behavioral expectations that promote safety, inclusion, and respectful participation.
- Supervise students during physical education classes, transitions, and related activities to ensure student safety.
- Conduct regular equipment and facility checks to ensure safe use of gymnasium, fields, and physical education materials.
- Maintain an organized and well-managed physical education environment, including proper storage and care of equipment.
- Assess student participation, effort, and skill development using age-appropriate evaluation methods.
- Maintain accurate records of student participation, progress, and relevant health or safety considerations.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers to support interdisciplinary learning and student development.
- Communicate with families, when appropriate, regarding student participation, progress, or concerns related to physical education.
- Support school-wide initiatives that promote wellness, physical activity, and healthy lifestyles.
- Participate in faculty meetings, team meetings, and school planning activities as requested.
- Supervise students during recess, arrival, dismissal, or other assigned supervision duties.
- Support school events, field days, athletic activities, or community-building events related to physical education.
- Follow all school policies related to safety, student supervision, child protection, and professional conduct.
- Maintain professional standards including punctuality, preparedness, and appropriate communication with colleagues and families.
- Demonstrate positive leadership, enthusiasm for physical activity, and encouragement of student participation.
- Provide coverage for colleagues or assist with supervision needs when requested.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School or designated supervisor.
Preferred Qualifications
- Teaching certification in Physical Education
- Montessori credentials or familiarity with Montessori philosophy and practices
- Experience working in independent or private school settings
- Experience developing inclusive physical education programs for diverse learners
Professional Expectations
- Demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and discretion
- Maintains confidentiality regarding school operations
- Engages respectfully with students, families, and colleagues
- Contributes positively to school culture
- Demonstrates sound judgment and accountability
- Commits to ongoing professional growth
Physical Factors and Work Environment
The Physical Education Teacher works in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, including gymnasiums, playgrounds, athletic fields, and other campus areas. The role requires active participation in physical activities and regular supervision of students.
Physical requirements include:
- Standing and moving for extended periods of time
- Demonstrating physical activities and exercises
- Bending, reaching, and lifting equipment
- Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds
- Supervising students outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Monitoring student movement and safety during active play and sports activities
Additional Responsibilities
- Attend faculty meetings, team meetings, and school-wide events as required
- Participate in professional development and training opportunities
- Support school events such as field days, wellness initiatives, and community gatherings
- Contribute to the broader life of the school community
- Fulfill responsibilities that may arise outside the regular school schedule
Employment Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Richmond Montessori School. Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of a job, duties, and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder’s responsibility.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree
- 3- 5 years experience teaching or working with school-age children in an educational or youth program setting
- Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate physical education practices
- Strong classroom management and student engagement skills
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with students, colleagues, and families
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build respectful, positive relationships within a school community
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Growth mindset, strong work ethic, and professional accountability
- Strong organizational skills and sound judgment
- First Aid and CPR certification