Congregation Beth Emeth in Albany, NY has a distinguished past going back to the roots of Reform Judaism. Our history, as the 4th oldest Reform Congregation in America carries with it both pride and an obligation from clergy and congregants to perpetuate this meaningful legacy. Nationally, we are respected and well known, not just for our roots back to Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise. Throughout our history, we have produced some of the most influential national leaders, both lay and clergy, within the Reform movement. Our strength comes from our membership, our long-standing clergy, a very active and committed Board of Trustees, and temple staff.
We are looking for a passionate and dedicated teacher with experience to join our team and teach children on Wednesdays and Sundays. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about working with kids, have the ability to create engaging lesson plans that meet the needs of diverse learners, have a deep understanding of Jewish culture and traditions, and promote a love for Judaism and Israel. This is a part-time position that requires regular availability on Wednesdays from 4:15-6:00 pm and Sundays 9:15 am-12:00 pm. These times include arriving at least 15 minutes prior to the start of class to prepare for the day’s lesson. The program runs from September through May, and it includes staff development days and staff meetings.
Responsibilities:
Act as a lead teacher for assigned grade level, engaging students with the content, and tracking progress throughout the year
Manage the classroom effectively to encourage student participation, minimize distractions, and maintain a positive learning environment
Supervise students in and out of the classroom, including in the halls and during specials
Attend occasional staff meetings and paid professional development sessions
Communicating monthly with our Religious School families
Providing a sense of caring and concern that enables our students to support one another and challenge themselves to grow as individuals
Be a dugma (a role model) to our students
Qualifications:
Formal and/or informal education experience or camp experience a plus!
Background in or solid understanding of Judaic studies
Strong Hebrew language knowledge, especially Jewish Life vocabulary
An understanding of how to nurture each child’s unique talents and abilities
Be creative, fun, and enthusiastic
Be a collaborative team player
Salary is commensurate and includes your attendance at a faculty orientation workshop, a faculty workshop in December, monthly email to parents, and two progress reports a year. If you are passionate about teaching Jewish children and want to make a difference in their lives, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter to Rabbi Shara Siegfeld at [email protected].
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY
Congregation Beth Emeth does not unlawfully discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of one’s actual or perceived race; color; religion; sex/gender (including gender identity); creed; sexual orientation; marital status; pregnancy; ethnicity; national origin; ancestry; age; disability; citizenship status; arrest or conviction record (consistent with the provisions of New York State’s Corrections Law); partnership status; familial status; military service; status as a victim of domestic violence; stalking or sex offenses; veteran status; genetic predisposition or carrier status; or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Employment decisions at Beth Emeth are made in a non-discriminatory manner and are based on qualifications, abilities, and merit. As may be permitted by law, certain Beth Emeth positions will be filled by persons of the Jewish faith as a bona fide occupational qualification. Beth Emeth also prohibits, and will not tolerate, any form of retaliation or reprisal against any employee who reasonably and in good faith complains of discrimination or harassment or provides information in connection with any such complaint.