Upper Elementary Social Studies Teacher

The school 

Founded in San Francisco in 2010, Alta Vista School implements an inquiry-based STEAM program serving approximately 300 students across two campuses. 

Alta Vista School encourages students to go beyond a strong academic foundation to pursue their passions with the help of our community. Faculty, administrators, and families believe experiences and hands-on activities are the best practice for meaningful learning. AVS educators benefit from small class sizes and are intentional in their instruction. Teachers serve as guides for students as they explore, observe, predict, measure, and analyze for themselves in an inquiry-based journey of discovery and knowledge-making. Likewise, AVS teachers are serious about play. We love learning alongside our students, believing that children learn better in joyous, authentic settings. Most important to the AVS approach is a foundation rooted in the scientific method and a belief that science and technology, guided by the arts, can be leveraged to benefit all. At AVS, students learn to embrace technology and to apply principles of design-thinking as powerful tools for innovation. Technology is thoughtfully integrated into each classroom. 

For more information about Alta Vista School, please visit our website: www.altavistaschool.org.

The role

The Lower School employs a co-teaching model, where co-lead teachers support the classroom and students throughout the school day. Grade-level teams work collaboratively to ensure a dynamic and robust experience throughout the grade.

AVS is seeking a dynamic upper elementary social studies teacher. The team is looking for an experienced, energetic individual with a passion for creating safe and positive environments for students from diverse backgrounds, integrating and modeling social and emotional learning (SEL). The teacher should be able to promote a calm and responsive environment. Strong communication skills and professional ethics are essential.

Traits and requirements

• Develop high-quality, innovative science curriculum aligned with the mission of Alta Vista School.
• Develop, organize, and implement lesson plans and instructional materials.
• Provide students with opportunities to question, investigate, and wonder.
• Co-design and maintain a vibrant classroom environment.
• Work cooperatively and collegially with the school’s administration, the faculty and staff, and the parents to create and maintain an exemplary school environment.
• Prepare for and actively participate in all school activities, faculty meetings, and conferences, including those with parents, during and after school hours as may be necessary.
• Cultivate collaboration, transparency, inclusion, curiosity, fun, innovation, and excellence in a dynamic learning community.
• In-depth knowledge of social studies curricula and best teaching practices.
• Willingness to examine your own teaching with a critical eye in order to continuously improve one’s practice and take advantage of all opportunities to grow as a teacher.
• As this is an in-person position, candidates must be up-to-date on vaccinations for COVID-19.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Experience teaching at elementary level

How to apply

If interested, please send a resume and cover letter – detailing your educational philosophy and why you believe you would be a good fit at Alta Vista School – to lshiring.committee@altavistaschoolsf.org. 

Statement on nondiscrimination

We are committed to being a safe and welcoming place for all families, students, and faculty. Our school does not discriminate against employees on the basis of race, color, religious creed, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, or disability.