PYP Lead Teacher (K-5)

Daystar Academy•Chicago, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing the instructional program in a consistent, engaging, and innovative manner. This role includes developing unit plans that align with both the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and Common Core State Standards. In addition to academic responsibilities, Lead Teachers are expected to integrate faith-based principles into their instruction, fostering students’ growth across academic, social, emotional, and spiritual domains. Instructional practices are data-driven, with regular assessments used to inform teaching strategies and support individual student development. For more information about the IB teaching approach, please visit: The IB Teaching Style Daystar Academy is a unique community where students are provided with a nurturing learning environment that allows them to explore, discover, and create. We are committed to more than academic excellence. Our curriculum allows students to engage with subject matter in experiential ways and promotes curiosity, problem solving, and respect of differences in thought and opinion. We foster a beautifully diverse student body that is made up of a variety of cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Our goal is to build a school community that reflects the diversity of the city and God’s Kingdom. Daystar’s mission is to empower students to impact the world through a faith-based, culturally-engaged, globally-minded education. Our vision is to transform Chicago and the world by educating and empowering our students to live out the values of the kingdom of God.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Education, or a related field

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education or Early Childhood Education
Valid Professional Educator License (PEL)
Experience with IB PYP framework and/or Responsive Classroom practices

Responsibilities

Provide a safe, nurturing learning environment grounded in Daystar Distinctives and Responsive Classroom practices.
Plan and deliver instruction aligned with Common Core State Standards (or other applicable standards such as NGSS), in accordance with the International Baccalaureate (IB) PYP Standards and Practices, as well as Daystar’s curricular expectations.
Complete all IB requirements related to unit and lesson planning, instruction, assessment, and reflection.
Submit lesson plans as required by the Program Coordinator.
Use data and reflection to inform and improve instructional practices, with a focus on student growth.
Guide and coach the PYP Support Teacher to facilitate small group instruction, class activities, and task delegation effectively.
Actively participate in collaborative planning, professional learning communities, and school-wide initiatives.
Support and promote a culture of teamwork and mutual respect among all staff and stakeholders.
Maintain accurate records of student progress, using assessment data to support and extend learning as needed.
Collect and curate student work samples and engagement artifacts using Toddle’s portfolio feature, as guided by the Lower and Middle School Coordinator.
Provide timely, meaningful assessment feedback to students and parents, and regularly update digital platforms with progress data.
Participate in and contribute to parent-teacher conferences, progress reports, and ongoing communication regarding student academic and behavioral development.
Reflect on teaching practice through the development and review of annual professional goals in accordance with Daystar Academy’s staff evaluation process.
Attend and contribute to staff meetings, devotionals/prayers, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, and staff members at all times.
Create and maintain a clean, creative, and organized classroom that promotes learning and student responsibility.
Model and promote respectful use of classroom materials and shared spaces.
Execute administrative and classroom maintenance duties as outlined in the Staff Handbook.
Build trust and foster positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues through consistent, respectful, and professional communication.
Represent Daystar Academy with integrity and excellence in all interactions.
Uphold all school procedures, policies, and the established chain of command.
Supervise students and assist with school-related duties as assigned.
Ensure a safe school environment, both indoors and outdoors, in accordance with building operation protocols (keys, fobs, alarm codes), the Daystar Distinctives, and Responsive Classroom practices.
Participate in a brief staff prayer at 7:35 AM, Monday through Thursday, in the Gathering Place.
Engage in school events to promote and strengthen positive school culture.
Complete assigned arrival and dismissal duties.
Fulfill essential job functions as outlined in your specific job description; during drills or emergencies, assist as needed.
Be punctual, appropriately dressed, and prepared for work at designated days/times.