Experiential Learning Teacher

Galapagos Charter Schools • Rockford, IL

110d • $40,000 - $75,000

About The Position

Galapagos Rockford Charter School is seeking dynamic and innovative Experiential Learning Teachers for the 2025-2026 academic year. We are hiring for three positions across the following grade bands: Kindergarten-2nd Grade, 3rd-5th Grade, and 6th-8th Grade. The Experiential Learning Teacher will be responsible for designing and implementing hands-on, project-based learning experiences that align with Common Core Standards and cater to the individual needs of each scholar. This role involves integrating real-world applications into the curriculum to enhance student engagement and mastery of academic content.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Minimum of one year of teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred, but not required.
• Valid Illinois Certification is helpful but not required.
• Drive to stay focused on scholar achievement and growth even when it is difficult.
• Grit to be solution-focused and keep going until the desired results are achieved.
• Growth mindset to see failures and setbacks as challenges to learn from and overcome.
• Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.
• Belief in and alignment with Galapagos' core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver experiential learning units that are directly tied to academic standards.
• Design and implement targeted daily whole group and small group lesson plans, as well as assessments that measure progress towards academic standards.
• Use assessment data to refine curriculum and inform instructional practices.
• Participate in collaborative curriculum development, frequent professional development, and feedback/coaching meetings.
• Be accountable for scholars' mastery of academic standards.
• Ensure a structured, orderly, and calm classroom environment through the use of Teach Like a Champion, Calm Classroom, and Collaborative and Proactive Problem Solving techniques.

Benefits

• Salary range: $40,000-$75,000, based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, flexible spending plans, and paid vacation time.
• Certified staff members receive matching contributions to the teacher pension fund.
• All staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including intensive coaching and professional development, a laptop computer, e-mail, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree