Congressional School is seeking Lower and Primary School Co-Teachers for First, Second and Third grade for the 2021-2022 academic year. The Primary/Lower School Co-Teacher is an academic instructor who shares responsibility with the Lead Teacher for providing an effective learning environment through planning, organizing, developing, and assessing a comprehensive program for First, Second or Third Grade students. The Co-Teacher is experienced and knowledgeable about the cognitive and social-emotional development of young children and has a passion for elementary education. In addition to the duties and responsibilities below, the Co-Teacher will be patient, positive, flexible, collaborative, and innovative.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Works collaboratively with Lead Teacher and other Specialists to develop, implement, assess and modifies, as necessary, a dynamic program that align with Congressional School’s mission, vision, and values
Uses a variety of methods, materials, and techniques to teach
Creates a pleasant, inviting classroom atmosphere in which children feel comfortable and secure, along with an atmosphere of support and safety to encourage children to experience new skills.
Establishes and communicates clear objectives for all learning activities
Effectively uses formative assessments for the purposes of refining the learning environment, curriculum, assessment, instruction, and classroom leadership and management
Listens and responds to student and parent concerns in a responsible, constructive and resourceful manner
Integrates meaningful and appropriate use of technology within the curriculum
Ability and willingness to differentiate learning to address students' diverse readiness levels, interests, and learning preferences
Embraces and models our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Performs other duties as required
REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum three years of experience teaching elementary grades, preferably in an independent school.
Experience working in a teaching team; positive attitude and eager to work collaboratively with lead teacher, peers and colleagues in developing curriculum and planning for instruction
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in child development and educational practices including Responsive Classroom, Singapore Math and Teachers College Readers and Writers Workshop
Strong initiative and organizational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Highly interested in pursuing professional development opportunities, dedicated to lifelong learning and a growth mindset
A sense of humor and warm personality
Congressional School is an Equal Opportunity Employer and it is the School’s policy to prohibit discrimination on the basis of any legally protected category and to afford equal employment and advancement opportunities to employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or characteristic, marital status, amnesty or status as a covered veteran, military service, application for military service, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state and local laws.
About Congressional School
Founded in 1939, Congressional School is a co-ed independent day school in the heart of Falls Church, VA. Dedicated to young learners—infants through eighth graders—Congressional School serves more than 400 students and 2,000 campers annually through its academic and summer programs. The school develops great thinkers and leaders by encouraging students to explore, embrace challenge, and grow through an innovative academic program —all in a diverse and inclusive community. Well-prepared for excellent secondary schools, Congressional School graduates have confidence, a sense of ethics, and the desire to continually and respectfully question, collaborate, create, and lead.
Teachers at Congressional School are passionate, innovative, and dedicated members of the Congressional community who embrace the vision, mission, philosophy and traditions of the School while always striving for excellence. Teachers are committed to growth as professionals and individuals, and are eager to help the school’s students strive for and be their best. Congressional is a community where learning, growing, curiosity, engagement, hard work, and play are all valued and nurtured.