K-2nd Grade Teacher

Distinctive Schools•Chicago, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Distinctive Schools seeks a K-2nd Grade Teacher who cultivates a love of learning through strong relationships, high expectations, and the belief that every student can achieve. Teachers provide engaging instruction with opportunities for students to apply what they learn, prepare lessons aligned to grade-level standards and the core curriculum, and use checks for understanding, student work, and assessments to adjust instruction and address learning gaps. Teachers build classroom communities with effective routines and management practices and communicate regularly with students and families about progress. The role includes individual and team lesson preparation, analysis of student work and assessment data, and participation in cycles of practice and feedback to improve instruction. The teacher contributes to a welcoming, equitable, and culturally responsive school community. The position requires maintaining accurate student records, using instructional materials and digital tools, participating in professional development and meetings, and collaborating with colleagues to support student growth. Travel may be required for training, professional development, and collaboration. Starting salary for certified teachers is $70,000. The position is regular full time, reports to the Principal, and has a start date of November 2026.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Valid Professional Educator License with the Illinois State Board of Education, or proof of enrollment in a teacher certification program within 30 days of employment.
Content area endorsement.
Ability to review and analyze student and campus data from multiple sources.
Proficiency with cloud-based software solutions, including Google Suite.
Ability to learn digital tools and programs as needed for the position.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity. The job generally requires 10% sitting, 50% walking, and 40% standing.

Responsibilities

Maintain a student-centered perspective and believe that all students can learn and achieve.
Contribute to campus and network equity work and make culturally responsive decisions.
Build a culture of belonging through positive relationships with students, families, and staff; foster a positive climate and serve as a role model.
Implement the Distinctive Schools model and provide consistent opportunities for students to complete grade-appropriate assignments using the core curriculum, resources, and strategies.
Deliver engaging instruction that places the cognitive work on students and supports deep engagement in learning.
Use core instructional tools to prepare and deliver dynamic lessons aligned with grade-level standards.
Provide student-centered, personalized learning that integrates students’ needs, strengths, and interests.
Maintain an inventory of instructional materials and accurate, complete records of student progress and development.
Analyze assessments and student progress to inform instructional responses and adjust strategies to support mastery of grade-level standards.
Assess students daily, weekly, and at the ends of units; analyze assessment data through campus and network systems.
Participate in coaching, mentoring, professional development, and required meetings to improve instructional effectiveness.
Maintain an organized, welcoming classroom that promotes belonging, joy, hope, and safety.
Manage classroom procedures, routines, and rituals that maximize learning.
Communicate effectively and frequently with students and families.
Use a restorative justice approach to discipline and behavior management in alignment with campus and network practices.
Collaborate with colleagues to support student growth and achievement.
Perform other duties and responsibilities assigned by the Principal.
Travel as required for training, professional development, and collaboration.