K-8 Dance Teacher

Distinctive Schools•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Distinctive Schools seeks a K-8 Dance Teacher in Chicago, Illinois. Teachers cultivate a love for learning through strong relationships, high expectations, and the belief that all students can achieve. They plan instruction aligned to grade-level standards and the core curriculum, engage students in applying what they learn, 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 with students and families about progress. The role reports to the Principal and is scheduled to start in November 2026. Starting salary for certified teachers is $70,000.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Valid Professional Educator License from 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.
Ability to travel as required for training, professional development, and collaboration.

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 grade-appropriate assignments using the core curriculum, resources, and strategies, with frequent checks for understanding.
Deliver engaging instruction that places the cognitive work on students and supports rigorous learning.
Design, prepare, and deliver dynamic lessons aligned to grade-level standards using core instructional tools.
Commit to personalized, student-centered learning that incorporates 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 design appropriate responses, adjust instruction, and support mastery of grade-level standards.
Assess students daily, weekly, and at the ends of units, and analyze assessment data using campus and network systems.
Participate in coaching, mentoring, required professional development, and meetings; perform other duties assigned by the Principal.
Maintain an organized, welcoming classroom that supports students’ sense of belonging, joy, hope, and safety.
Establish classroom procedures, routines, and rituals that maximize learning.
Communicate effectively and frequently with students and families, and collaborate with colleagues to support student growth and achievement.
Use a restorative-justice approach to discipline and behavior management in alignment with campus and network practices.