3rd-8th Grade Drama Teacher

San Francisco Friends School•San Francisco, CA

22h•$69,250 - $148,580

About The Position

Starting in the 2026-2027 Academic Year The San Francisco Friends School (SFFS), located in the heart of the Mission District in San Francisco, educates K-8 students in the tradition of Quaker learning. By example and commitment, we hope to inspire all connected with our school to work together toward a peaceful and caring society. For further information about San Francisco Friends School’s beginnings, mission, and philosophy, please visit our website at www.sffriendsschool.org. The school seeks teachers who resonate with the Friends School mission, which provides an exemplary education in a community dedicated to problem-solving, service to others, simplicity, social justice, and quiet reflection. Our Quaker mission also compels us to create a diverse and inclusive community; we seek a person who will thrive and contribute to such a community, both within and beyond the walls of the school. Job Summary SFFS seeks a theater specialist/drama teacher and community member who will instill a love of theater arts in our students. The ideal candidate will bring strong theatrical expertise, a student-centered teaching philosophy, and an understanding of students' developmental needs at each grade level. This role plays a vital part in helping students find their voice, take creative risks, and contribute meaningfully to our school community. This educator will teach theater classes in Grades 3-6 and electives in Grades 7-8. In addition, this educator will direct and lead our middle school fall play, fourth-grade play, and fifth-grade service learning performance. This educator will also partner closely with colleagues in music, production, and student preparation for year-end ceremonies, including graduation. Rooted in Quaker values of community, equity, and reflection, our next drama teacher will also cultivate a respectful and inclusive classroom culture that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and student voice. The position calls for someone who is not only technically skilled but also deeply student-centered, flexible, and enthusiastic about engaging upper elementary and middle schoolers in meaningful, imaginative work.

Requirements

Background in theater and/or performing arts
Bachelor’s degree
Minimum of three years of teaching experience, preferably with upper elementary and middle school–aged students
Alignment with the school’s mission and openness to Quaker philosophy
Demonstrated success working across a wide developmental range
Has experience working with students with learning differences and has the ability to work and differentiate within the classroom
Ability to integrate culturally responsive pedagogy and reflect on teaching practice through the lens of equity and justice.
Strong collaborative and interpersonal skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Commitment to inclusive, student-centered education
Employment Clearances required: SB 848 Authorization and Reference Checking Livescan Background US Employment Eligibility TB Clearance certificate

Nice To Haves

Teaching credential or Master’s degree in education
Advanced degree in a performing arts related field
Knowledge of current pedagogy and facility with hands-on and project-based instruction
Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish

Responsibilities

Design and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate theater instruction in acting, voice, movement, improvisation, devised theater, basic playwriting, ensemble work, and basic choreography
Teach year-round courses in 3rd and 4th grade
Teach semester-long courses in 5th and 6th grade
Teach trimester electives in 7th and 8th grade
Lead and direct the middle school fall play
Lead and direct the fourth-grade play
Foster a classroom and rehearsal environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming of all students’ identities and backgrounds.
Guide and support student learning through differentiated instruction and constructive feedback
Assess student growth and maintain clear records of progress to write mid-term and semester reports
Write quarterly newsletters about curriculum and activities; share students' work for social media and Vidigami
Direct the school’s annual year-end celebration in Golden Gate Park, in collaboration with the music and IT departments
Direct graduation ceremonies, in collaboration with the music department and the 8th-grade team
Serve as a middle school advisor, supporting a small group of students academically, socially, and emotionally throughout the school year.
Facilitate three weekly advisory meetings, student-led conferences, and family communication, fostering a strong sense of belonging and a growth mindset for students
Collaborate with fellow 3rd, 4th, and middle school teachers to plan interdisciplinary units and projects that incorporate drama and theater arts across subjects
Support and participate in school-wide events, service learning, and community-building activities, including weekend and evening events
Contribute to the life of the lower and middle schools by participating in team meetings and professional development
Attend one annual Field Studies overnight program
Attend and participate in weekly faculty and staff meetings
Supervise students during lunch and recess
Serve on school committees
Communicate professionally and consistently with students, families, and administrators