Founding Spanish Teacher | Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep • Des Moines, IA

3d

About The Position

As a Founding Spanish Teacher at Des Moines Prep, you will play a critical role in shaping our world language program and ensuring students develop both linguistic proficiency and cultural competence. You will be responsible for delivering engaging and rigorous Spanish instruction, developing curriculum that supports language acquisition and real-world application, and fostering a passion for global perspectives. As a key member of our faculty, you will help build a culture of excellence and joy, where students are challenged and supported in their learning. This role is ideal for an experienced educator who is deeply committed to student success, excited about building a program from the ground up, and eager to collaborate with colleagues to create a dynamic learning environment.

Requirements

• 3+ years of teaching experience, preferably in high school biology or life sciences.
• Strong track record of student achievement in science
• Experience designing and implementing differentiated instruction to meet the needs of students at varying levels of scientific understanding
• Proven success in hands-on, inquiry-based learning, including facilitating lab experiments and interactive projects
• Experience integrating technology, data analysis, and real-world applications into science instruction
• Deep belief in all students’ potential and a commitment to holding high academic and behavioral expectations
• A growth mindset, constantly seeking to refine and improve instructional practice
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Adaptability and excitement about being part of a founding team at a new school
• Readiness to go above and beyond, including putting in extra time in and outside of your role, to build Des Moines’ premier college prep school

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality Spanish instruction that builds students' fluency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
• Develop and refine curriculum to align with state standards and best practices in second language acquisition.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners, ensuring all students can access and succeed in Spanish coursework.
• Utilize data to track student progress and adjust instructional strategies accordingly.
• Work to expand course offerings over time, building a robust Spanish program that includes advanced coursework and cultural immersion experiences
• Foster student engagement by integrating cultural exploration, real-world application, and interdisciplinary connections into Spanish instruction
• Establish partnerships with local organizations, universities, and cultural institutions to provide students with enrichment opportunities
• Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies
• Participate in school-wide professional development to continuously refine instructional practice, including regular data and assessment reflection cycles
• Engage in feedback cycles with the Dean of Academics and Principal to improve teaching effectiveness
• Communicate regularly with families about student progress, celebrating successes and addressing challenges proactively
• Participate in school events, family conferences, and outreach efforts to build strong relationships with families and the community
• Help students and families see the relevance of Spanish in their everyday lives, future careers, and societal challenges

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed