2nd Grade Teacher

About the position

AXL Academy is seeking a passionate and dedicated 2nd Grade Teacher to join our Expeditionary Learning community. This teacher will provide a rich, engaging, and hands-on learning experience across all core subjects while fostering a culture of curiosity, critical thinking, and student agency. Collaboration with the elementary team to design integrated expeditions and standards-based learning experiences is essential.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging, equity-based lessons in English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, aligned with Colorado State Standards and Expeditionary Learning principles.
• Design standards-based expeditions (units) that culminate in high-quality projects and real-world applications.
• Differentiate instruction using relevant technology and a variety of teaching strategies.
• Foster student agency by integrating scholar choice, scholar-engaged assessment, inquiry-based learning, and discussion-based instruction.
• Assess and monitor student progress, providing timely and meaningful feedback.
• Establish a positive and inclusive classroom culture that promotes student collaboration, respect, and responsibility.
• Implement restorative practices and a growth mindset approach to classroom management.
• Maintain discipline and expectations in alignment with AXL Academy's policies and values.
• Serve as a Crew leader, fostering a sense of belonging and personal development among students.
• Work collaboratively with grade-level teams to develop interdisciplinary expeditions.
• Engage in ongoing professional development, coaching, and reflective practice.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and school events.
• Participate in department, school-wide, and district meetings, maintaining FERPA compliance.
• Support school-wide initiatives, including community-building events, student-led conferences, and expedition nights.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• Colorado Teaching License in Elementary Education (or ability to obtain one).
• Commitment to Expeditionary Learning and project-based instruction.
• Strong classroom management skills rooted in relationship-building and restorative practices.
• Ability to differentiate instruction and support diverse learning needs.
• Comfort with using technology to enhance student learning.
• Comfort with planning and implementing meaningful Fieldwork experiences in nature and in the community.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience teaching elementary school.
• Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field.
• Background in Expeditionary Learning or similar student-centered models.
• CLDE (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education) certification (required for all AXL teachers hired in 2021-22 or later).
• Experience working with diverse student populations, including English language learners.
• A passion for engaging students in hands-on, inquiry-based learning.

Benefits

• Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• PERA Retirement Benefits
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave