Associate Teacher (K-5 Elementary)

Destine Prep Charter School • City of Schenectady, NY

3d • $53,560 - $62,020 • Onsite

About The Position

Destine Preparatory Charter School (Destine Prep) is a public charter school in Schenectady, NY, dedicated to providing a welcoming, structured, and academically rigorous learning environment. We believe every child deserves a future full of possibilities and are seeking passionate educators to join our growing community. Our extended school day and year, enrichment programs, and commitment to excellence aim to ensure every scholar receives a quality education. We foster a collaborative environment where every team member's voice is heard, students are encouraged to dream big and work hard, and educators are empowered to make a lasting impact. We are looking for individuals who view teaching as a calling, find joy in student growth, take initiative, adapt quickly, and value structure, consistency, high expectations, and compassion. Destine Prep is a place that celebrates growth for both students and staff.

Requirements

• Familiarity with high-quality curriculum and NYS learning standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, particularly with children and families.
• Adaptability in a dynamic, mission-driven school setting.
• Ability to implement feedback and pursue professional growth.
• Dedication to equity, anti-racism, and inclusive practices.
• Growth-minded: Open to feedback, eager to learn, and motivated to improve.
• Detail-oriented and dependable, with strong organizational and communication skills.
• Emotionally intelligent: Self-aware, empathetic, and capable of building strong relationships with students and adults.
• Committed to equity and driven by the belief that all students can succeed.
• A team player who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (required).
• NYS Teaching Certification or willingness to pursue (required).
• Must be able to read, write, and speak English fluently.

Nice To Haves

• At least 1 year of experience in an educational setting (preferred).
• Experience working in urban schools or charter settings (preferred but not required).
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings for school events.

Responsibilities

• Observe and learn from Lead Teachers to improve instructional techniques and classroom management.
• Teach either Social Studies or Science to up to four (4) classes and up to two (2) different grade levels, based on grade placement.
• Provide daily one-on-one and small group tutoring and academic interventions.
• Grade student work and assist with data collection to inform instruction.
• Implement and support the use of a rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum.
• Help manage student behavior with consistent expectations and compassionate accountability.
• Supervise students during arrival, dismissal, transitions, breakfast, lunch, and/or after school.
• Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
• Co-lead homeroom/advisory and build strong, positive relationships with students.
• Support Lead Teachers in establishing strong communication with families.
• Attend parent-teacher conferences, family events, and school-wide functions.
• Share progress with families in partnership with Lead Teachers.
• Participate in professional development, instructional coaching, and mentoring sessions.
• Reflect on feedback and implement strategies for continual improvement.
• Collaborate with your grade-level team to support student learning and school goals.
• Provide substitute coverage for Lead Teachers as needed.
• Support the school community during special events, field trips, and after-school activities.
• Assist with main office duties, event coordination, and other school-wide needs.

Benefits

• Destine Prep covers all associated costs for fingerprint-supported criminal history background check.
• Ongoing professional growth and mentorship opportunities.
• A collaborative environment where feedback, innovation, and impact are valued.
• The chance to shape the culture and future of a growing school community.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level