Long-Term Substitute: Upper School Social Studies Teacher

The Principia•Des Peres, MO

28d

About The Position

The Long-Term Substitute: Upper School Social Studies Teacher at Principia School inspires student interest and ownership in learning and integrating real-life scenarios into instruction. Reporting to the Social Studies Department Chair, this role plays a critical part in preparing students to be future-ready learners and collaborates closely with colleagues in English and Chemistry to design and implement interdisciplinary, project-based learning experiences. Success in this role draws on demonstrated teaching expertise, relationship building, flexibility, project-based learning expertise, and strong communication skills. In addition to teaching Social Studies in standalone classes, you will play a key role in the Upper School CoLab—a two-period block where Social Studies, English, and Chemistry are fully integrated using project-based learning. This innovative approach emphasizes authentic, real-world applications and fosters critical 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and communication. Daily collaboration is central to this position. You will work closely with a team of three educators to design and implement integrated, project-based units that assess learning across all disciplines. Co-teaching is a core expectation, requiring adaptability, openness to new methods, and a commitment to shared planning and assessment. Because there are no strict protocols, success depends on your ability to adjust in real time to meet the needs and interests of students. As a member of the Upper School faculty, reporting to the Social Studies Department Chair, you will help prepare students to be future-ready learners and contribute to a culture of collaborative professional growth. Your enthusiasm for integrated teaching and commitment to authentic assessment will help shape a dynamic educational experience that prepares students for life beyond the classroom.

Requirements

Student of Christian Science preferred
Supportive of Principia’s guiding statements as articulated here https://www.principia.edu/about/guiding-statements [https://www.principia.edu/about/guiding-statements]
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred (in Education, History, or related field)
Demonstrated experience teaching high school students
Ability to teach a range of Social Studies, including US Government, American History, and parallel World History events; preferred ability to teach entrepreneurial studies and economics as well
Ability to relate well with students and adults

Responsibilities

Collaborates and co-plans with the English and Chemistry teachers to design and implement the CoLab experience (interdisciplinary project-based class)
Demonstrates ability to teach history that informs current societal, political, and global dynamics
Encourages students to draw connections between the past and present, fostering critical thinking about contemporary issues
Integrates current events into the classroom to engage students with real-time application of historical and civic knowledge
Models and supports media literacy and responsible consumption of information
Collaborates across departments (e.g., English, Science, Art, Ethics) to design interdisciplinary projects that deepen student learning; experience with collaborative/team teaching is important
Incorporates elements of economics, geography, civics, and sociology into the curriculum for a holistic understanding of social systems
Promotes inquiry-based learning that encourages curiosity, dialogue, and critical reflection
Facilitates student-led discussions, debates, and research projects that foster independent thinking and civic engagement
Builds a classroom environment that values diverse perspectives and encourages empathy
Incorporates a wide range of voices and narratives, particularly those historically underrepresented
Utilizes technology to enhance student engagement and access to global perspectives (e.g., digital archives, mapping tools, simulations, etc.)
Demonstrates commitment to preparing students to be thoughtful, informed, and active citizens
Displays a strong interest and love for working with high school students
Works with a wide range of students, helping them feel successful and understand their unlimited potential
Serves as a member of the Social Studies Department, which involves weekly meetings
Provides daily conferences for students who require extra support
Handles discipline situations in an effective manner that supports character growth
Pursues professional development and applies best educational practices in the classroom; becomes part of a professional learning community where teachers continually improve teaching and learning
Collaborates effectively with colleagues, coaches, parents, houseparents, and administrators
Supports mutual curricular and instructional goals with the Upper School Social Studies teachers
Organizes work to achieve timeliness and order
Supports school activities by chaperoning social events and trips
Recognizes that character education is important and should be a natural part of classroom instruction
Serves as an advisor to a group of 8-10 Upper School students