Social Studies Teacher - Spark Academy

Heritage Schools • Provo, UT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Spark Academy is a co-ed, residential treatment program specializing in autism and neurodiversity. We offer a year-round, project-based learning curriculum, in a co-teacher classroom that fosters confidence and a love for education. As an accredited special education school, we are committed to providing individualized support to help students thrive academically and personally, where students come first, and curriculum comes second. The Social Studies Teacher will provide structured and engaging history, government, and geography instruction in a co-taught, cross-curricular, project based learning classroom while supporting students with varying special education needs. This role requires creativity, patience, out of the box thinking and a strong understanding of how to adapt the English curriculum to accommodate students who learn differently than a traditional direct instruction classroom offers, and need teachers who see their value beyond any behavioral dysregulations. This position will give you the freedom to really have fun teaching again, without the stress and pressures of teaching all curriculum strands to prepare for the end of level tests; there are no high stakes tests given. This means you are free to think more creatively, build lasting relationships with students, and enjoy teaching again.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Secondary Education, History, or a related field preferred.
• Valid teaching license (or a willingness to obtain one).
• Experience in special education, Social Studies instruction, or residential treatment is highly desirable.
• Must be at least 20 years old to apply.
• Experience working with neurodiverse students is a plus.
• Strong proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking fluently).

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on, project-based social studies instruction that fosters curiosity and engagement.
• Adapt teaching strategies to support students with level 1 autism, or other neurodiversities to know that they are more important than the curriculum being taught.
• Collaborate with the Special Education Coordinator to implement IEP goals and track student progress.
• Create a structured and supportive classroom environment that encourages student participation and success.
• Support students in developing critical thinking, communication, and literacy skills.
• Partner with Residential Coaches, therapists, and other team members to support students' academic and social-emotional development.
• Prioritize student relationships and meaningful engagement over rote memorization and standardized tests.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student performance, attendance, and behavior in accordance with school policies.
• Attend and actively participate in faculty meetings, professional development sessions, and school-related conferences.
• Supervise students during class and designated school activities to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Uphold Heritage's mission and values, modeling professionalism and ethical behavior in all interactions.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance packages.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company matching contributions.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching (eligible after one year).
• 8 paid holidays per year, plus accrued PTO starting on Day 1, as well as 8 weeks of VTO when school is out.
• Sundance Mountain Resort corporate passes.
• Discounted Provo Recreation Center membership.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level