Elementary Specials Teacher (26-27 SY)

Destine Prep Charter School•Schenectady, NY

1d•$53,560 - $69,843

About The Position

Elementary Specials Teacher: Visual Arts, Dance, Music (Instrumental/Vocal), World Languages, Physical Education/Health, STENAM/Technology, Library/Media, or other options). At Destine Preparatory, we believe that a well-rounded education is essential to helping students discover who they are and who they can become. Our Specials program plays a vital role in building joy, curiosity, discipline, creativity, and confidence for our scholars. We are seeking an Elementary Specials Teacher (11-months, August-June) who is eager to grow, collaborate, and contribute to a dynamic school community. This role is ideal for an educator who loves working with children, is excited to develop their teaching practice, and believes that enrichment subjects are essential to student success. Role Overview The Elementary Specials Teacher supports student learning by planning and delivering engaging, standards-aligned instruction in a specialized content area. In this role, you will collaborate closely with school leadership and classroom teachers, support school-wide instructional and culture priorities, and gradually take on increased instructional responsibility throughout the year. Specials Teachers may teach one or more subject blocks and provide instructional coverage, small group support, and supervision as needed to support the school community.

Requirements

Strong communication skills, especially with children and families.
The ability to stay organized, flexible, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment.
High emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and a reflective mindset.
A collaborative spirit and willingness to support wherever students need you most.
A strong commitment to racial equity, anti-racism, and inclusive education.
Knowledge of high-quality curriculum and NYS learning standards
Strong instructional and classroom management skills
Relationship-building with students, families, and colleagues
Adaptability and openness to feedback
Effective time management and multitasking
Data-informed decision-making
Discretion with confidential and sensitive information
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Valid NYS Teaching Certification or willingness to pursue certification in one or more of these teaching areas: Visual Arts, Dance, Music (Instrumental/Vocal), World Languages, Physical Education/Health, STEAM/Technology, or Library/Media
Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and events
Commitment to working in an inclusive, diverse school community

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience as a school educator in one of the certification areas abo
Experience in a charter or public school setting
Experience working in urban school communities

Responsibilities

Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate instruction in your assigned specials area.
Adapt and execute standards-aligned curriculum, assessments, and lesson plans.
Provide daily feedback to students on academic progress and character development.
Support one-on-one and small group instruction and intervention when needed.
Periodically assume increased responsibility for lesson planning and instruction.
Work closely with Lead Teachers, coaches, and school leadership to strengthen instruction.
Provide in-house substitute teaching coverage when needed.
Support grade-level teams through tutoring, grading, and instructional assistance.
Collaborate with the Culture Team to help maintain a positive, consistent school-wide culture.
Participate in curriculum development, school events, performances, and field trips.
Supervise students during classes, transitions, meals, arrival, dismissal, and after-school activities.
Help maintain a safe, structured, and welcoming learning environment.
Provide consistent rewards and consequences aligned to school culture expectations.
Serve as a trusted adult and positive role model for students.
Engage in practice-based professional development, coaching, and mentorship.
Meet regularly with school leadership to receive and implement feedback.
Observe best practices from experienced educators and continuously refine instruction.
Support data collection and reflection to inform instructional decisions.