Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School, located in Chicago, IL, seeks an outstanding Judaic Studies teacher for the 2024-2025 school year with experience teaching Jewish texts using a progressive approach, particularly Chumash (third and fourth grade) and/or middle school Tanakh and Mishnah.
This teacher should be confident to challenge and be challenged by colleagues as we develop and implement creative and innovative ideas that foster intellectual, spiritual, and social growth in our students. Our Judaic curriculum is based upon primary texts and Modern Orthodox practice with deep respect for the vastly different practices of Judaism within our community.
At Akiba-Schechter, we teach children, not subjects. Our teachers partner with colleagues to develop strategies to reach and stretch every student. We firmly believe that Judaic and general studies are not only discrete courses of study but complementary pursuits that, when woven together thoughtfully, elevate each other and holistically foster critical growth of our students. As such, interdisciplinary, project-based learning in which students use their Torah learning--paired with their learning in the humanities, science, Hebrew, and math--to better understand the world around them are central to our philosophy.
This teacher will have the opportunity to create original curricula and partner in the development of an articulated scope and sequence of Jewish learning for kindergarten through eighth grade, grounded in the progressive philosophical principles above. Professional development and advancement are both available and expected for the right candidate.
Educational Approach
- Focus on student inquiry, wondering, and exploration
- Clearly articulate learning goals for students that apply to and extend beyond content and skills
- Collaborate on curriculum with colleagues both vertically within the Judaic studies team and horizontally across grade-levels. Including, but not limited to, the development and implementation of interdisciplinary learning units of study
- Maintain a learner’s mindset--seeking to grow as a teacher, seek out and implement best practices, and interact with colleagues as both mentors and partners
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of Judaic studies teaching experience; Master’s degree preferred
- Belief in the ability of all students to learn and succeed
- Experience developing healthy, supportive relationships with students
- Positive energy and can-do attitude
- Excellent problem-solving, organizational, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
- Comfort and confidence with technology
- Flexibility and attention to detail
- Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality
General Responsibilities
- Plan and facilitate Judaic studies classes; differentiate as needed
- Partner with colleagues to plan and facilitate interdisciplinary learning units and holiday celebrations
- Lead and support students in tefillah
- Supervise students as needed in advisory, lunch, recess, hallways, etc.
- Work closely with colleagues to ensure individual students’ needs are met
- Develop and promote proactive and positive communications with parents
- Sponsor and/or supervise special interest student clubs as needed
- Embrace the school values and support efforts to promote Akiba-Schechter
How to Apply
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a sample lesson plan to [email protected]. In your cover letter, please explain why you are excited about Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School and how your experiences and skills will help further our mission.
This is a full or part time, in-person position with a salary commensurate with experience, ranging from $35,000 - $65,000 annually (depending on employment level), and includes benefits.
About Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School:
Akiba-Schechter is a preschool through 8th grade private school located in Hyde Park. It was established as a unique venture in Jewish education when Akiba South Side Jewish Day School and Solomon Schechter South Side School joined forces in 1972.
Since its merger, Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School has embraced its mission to provide an excellent general and Judaic education to a diverse community of Jewish children from all over Chicagoland. Through a focus on the individual student, multi-age classrooms, and project-based learning, Akiba-Schechter offers a unique and superb educational experience where all learners thrive. For more information, visit www.akibaschechter.org