Hood River New School, a sixth through eighth grade independent day school, currently serves 48 students from diverse backgrounds living in Oregon and Washington. Our mission is to empower middle school students with the skills they need to become resourceful learners, preparing them to take on future challenges. In a responsive and caring environment, students mature into confident, compassionate citizens inspired to meaningfully contribute to their community. The New School was founded in 2021 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit middle school by a community of educators and parents excited to create a school that honors the critical growth and development window that occurs during adolescence — the transition between childhood and adulthood. We invite you to learn more about our mixed-aged classrooms, curriculum, our staff, and our educational philosophy on our website.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Under the direction of the Executive Director and Head of School, this teacher will teach a classroom of approximately 20 students in sixth through eighth grade. They will integrate Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies to deliver an engaging and challenging project-based curriculum. This role involves collaborating closely with two other teachers to take a pre-built curriculum and shape it to the unique needs of the New School community. This role may also involve taking the lead on some elements of instruction and programming.

The teacher will provide a warm and supportive environment that encourages risk taking and joy in learning, and provide extensions and supports for a variety of learning styles and abilities.

They will plan curricular field trips, guest speakers, and local collaborations with community organizations. They will communicate effectively with parents, other staff, and members of the New School community.

They will maintain appropriate records and follow New School procedures and practices.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Candidates must have an elementary or middle school teaching license.

• Expired licenses, out of state licenses, or students who are graduating from a teacher's college or graduate program during the Spring 2024 semester are also eligible to apply.
• Preference will be given to applicants with prior middle school teaching experience.
• Preference will be given to applicants who hold multiple academic endorsements.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

The ideal candidate will:

• Demonstrate confidence in curriculum delivery. The individual will need to adapt the curriculum independently and assess its efficacy for their particular cohort.
• Have a strong understanding of the middle school age group and their particular social-emotional and academic needs.
• Demonstrate a talent for building positive, professional relationships with students to help each student reach their highest potential.
• Demonstrate effective instructional practices and thorough understanding of teaching and learning processes at the middle school level.
• Demonstrate the ability to provide instruction that reflects multiple perspectives and multicultural education.
• Demonstrate the ability to infuse technology into the curriculum.
• Demonstrate excellent oral and written communication, along with strong interpersonal abilities.
• Work effectively with students, parents, community members, and colleagues.
• Be a team player with a willingness to jump in as needed and support fellow team members.

COMPENSATION

• This is a full-time, academic year position that comes with a competitive salary based on degrees and experience, abundant professional development opportunities, and a potential benefits package. We welcome applicants of all levels of professional experience, interests, and career goals.
• This position includes a half day of collaborative prep time plus additional prep time in the work week.
• As a small school, there are many opportunities for leadership and advancement. Salary and benefits reflect roles, responsibilities, and experience.

APPLICATION DETAILS

• Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and 2 letters of reference to the Head of School, Claire Gilchrist, or complete the job application on this website.