Seminary & Institute Teacher (Southern Utah)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints•Cedar City, UT

About The Position

Seminary and Institute Teachers teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to youth and students using a Christ-centered, learner-focused, and scripture-based approach. The role also involves administration, professional development, and working with parents and priesthood leaders to support the rising generation. The posting is associated with Southern Utah workshops in Cedar City and St. George, but openings may not be available there; full-time positions may be located in central or northern Utah, Idaho, or Arizona. The application process begins with completing the REL 471 Teaching Seminary Workshop. By invitation, candidates may then participate in a brief 3–4-day teaching practicum at a local seminary and, by further invitation, student teach for one to two semesters. Student teachers teach no more than two classes per semester, typically in a 15–20-hour-per-week assignment, while receiving training and evaluation. Full-time employment decisions are made by Seminaries and Institutes administration in Salt Lake City; part-time decisions are made by local S&I administrators based on demand. Completing the process does not guarantee employment, as there are typically more student teachers than openings. Seminary instructors are expected to work the time necessary to complete assigned teaching and administrative responsibilities. Full-time workloads vary by school schedule: four of five trimester classes, six of eight block classes, or at least six classes in a seven-period day. When possible, the student-to-teacher ratio should be approximately 150–180 to one, with a recommended maximum of 35 students per class. Full-time instructors are not eligible for overtime. For applicants living 90 miles or more from a Preservice Center, remote REL 471 options are encouraged. Positions may close without notice.

Requirements

For Seminary positions, hold a bachelor’s degree from an approved and accredited institution of higher learning.
For Institute positions, hold a master’s degree from an approved and accredited institution of higher learning.
Successfully complete religious teacher training (preservice) and student teaching.
Be a worthy and active member of the Church and hold a current temple recommend.
Exhibit a testimony of the Savior and His restored gospel.
Exemplify Church teachings regarding marriage and family life.
Have and maintain a reputation for meeting financial commitments.
Relate to and be able to manage a classroom of teenagers.
Demonstrate outstanding scripture-teaching skills in both face-to-face and online settings.
Complete the REL 471 Teaching Seminary Workshop and, if invited, the teaching practicum and student-teaching stages of the selection process.

Nice To Haves

Love of youth from all walks of life.
High character.
Ability to teach in a Christ-centered, learner-focused, and scripturally based way.
Effectiveness in administration and ability to work well with parents and priesthood leaders.

Responsibilities

Teach scriptural doctrines and gospel principles, including the teachings of prophets, in ways that lead to understanding and edification.
Use approved curriculum and teaching materials.
Teach the number of classes recommended by policy in consultation with the area director.
Accept faculty assignments.
Observe classroom teaching and provide helpful feedback to teachers.
Strive for continual professional growth.
Provide useful information to priesthood leaders and respect their time.
Establish clear and consistent communication methods.
Work with priesthood leaders to identify and enroll potential students.
Cultivate a classroom learning environment characterized by love, respect, and purpose.
Complete assigned teaching and administrative responsibilities.