K-8 Spanish Teacher

Distinctive Schools•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Distinctive Schools seeks a K-8 Spanish Teacher who cultivates a love of learning through strong relationships, high expectations, and a belief that all students can achieve. Teachers focus on engaging instruction and provide opportunities for students to apply what they learn. They prepare individually and collaboratively, plan 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 bring strong subject-matter knowledge, build classroom communities with effective routines and management practices, and communicate regularly with students and families about progress. The role includes implementing the Distinctive Schools model, delivering rigorous and student-centered instruction, maintaining accurate progress records, analyzing assessment data, and participating in coaching, mentoring, professional development, and meetings. Teachers also foster a welcoming classroom culture grounded in belonging, restorative approaches, and strong relationships. The position is based in Chicago, Illinois, reports to the Principal, and is scheduled to start in October 2026. Starting salary for certified teachers is $70,000.

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.

Responsibilities

Maintain a student-centered perspective and believe that all students can learn and achieve.
Contribute to campus and network equity work and engage in culturally responsive decision-making.
Build a culture of belonging through positive relationships with students, families, and staff, and foster a positive climate and culture.
Serve as a positive role model and cultivate a strengths-based, equity-focused mindset.
Implement the Distinctive Schools model and provide consistent opportunities for students to complete grade-appropriate assignments using core curriculum, resources, and strategies, with frequent checks for understanding.
Deliver strong instruction that engages students and requires them to do the cognitive work of learning.
Use core instructional tools to design, prepare, and deliver dynamic lessons aligned to grade-level standards and rigorous learning experiences.
Commit to 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 assessment data and use it to inform instructional responses and adjustments that support mastery of grade-level standards.
Assess students daily, weekly, and at the ends of units, and analyze assessment data through campus and network systems.
Participate in coaching, mentoring, required professional development, and meetings to improve instructional effectiveness.
Maintain an organized, welcoming classroom that supports belonging, joy, hope, and safety.
Manage classroom procedures, routines, and rituals that maximize learning.
Communicate effectively and frequently with students and families about progress.
Use restorative justice approaches 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.