Teacher, Thesis

CESAR CHAVEZ PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL FOR PUBLIC POLICY•Washington, DC

40d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Thesis Teacher at Chavez is a highly effective and dedicated educator committed to fostering academic excellence, research skills, and critical thinking. This role is integral to guiding students through the development of their Senior Thesis, ensuring they engage in rigorous research, policy analysis, and writing. The Senior Thesis Teacher collaborates with the Public Policy Manager and other staff to provide students with meaningful fellowship experiences and public policy events that enhance their learning. This teacher is responsible for student achievement, curriculum development, and collaboration with colleagues, administrators, and families to ensure student success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in English, History, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Education, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
Three years of teaching experience in research, writing, public policy, or related subjects with demonstrated success in increasing student achievement (preferred).
Highly Qualified designation as defined by the school or district.
Strong instructional skills, classroom management, and the ability to support students in long-term research and writing projects.
Experience guiding students in research methodology, critical analysis, and persuasive writing.
Experience facilitating student-centered learning (inquiry-based, cooperative learning, or project-based instruction).
Demonstrated success in using data to drive instruction and monitor student progress.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong ability to think strategically, problem-solve proactively, and exercise sound judgment.
Ability to collaborate with external partners and organizations to facilitate student fellowships and public policy engagement.
Unwavering commitment to student success, continuous improvement, and ethical standards.
Ability to self-reflect, be receptive to feedback, and adjust teaching practices accordingly.
Completion of the Praxis II Exam (or equivalent state certification exam) or possession of a degree in a relevant subject area.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Public Policy, Education, Social Sciences, or a related field.
Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above.
Evidence of ongoing professional development and continuing education in research and policy instruction.

Responsibilities

Classroom Instruction & Student Engagement (70%) Establish and reinforce clear expectations, routines, and high academic and behavior standards that align with the school's vision.
Develop and implement rigorous curricula, lessons, and activities that support students in completing their Senior Thesis, meeting academic standards, and honing research and writing skills.
Guide students through the research process, including identifying topics, conducting literature reviews, analyzing public policy, and crafting well-supported arguments.
Design and execute well-structured lesson plans that incorporate inquiry-based learning, primary and secondary source analysis, and real-world policy applications.
Provide consistent feedback on student research, writing, and presentation skills to ensure students meet high academic standards.
Develop and administer formative and summative assessments to measure student progress, diagnose areas of misunderstanding, and inform instructional strategies.
Use assessment data to refine instruction and ensure student mastery of research, critical thinking, and writing skills.
Create a positive, achievement-oriented classroom culture that supports students’ intellectual, social, and emotional development.
Maintain a visually engaging, resource-rich classroom environment that fosters academic curiosity and exploration of public policy topics.
Communicate effectively with students to understand their learning styles, strengths, and areas for growth while setting clear learning expectations.
Engage regularly with families to support student success through consistent updates on academic achievement and progress.
Public Policy & Fellowship Integration (20%) Work with the Public Policy Manager to implement high-quality instruction in the Senior Thesis course, ensuring alignment with Chavez’s mission and academic standards.
Facilitate meaningful discussions and analysis of public policy topics, helping students connect their research to real-world issues.
Assist in the planning and execution of public policy events, including Symposium, Professionalism Day, and other school-wide initiatives, that enhance student learning and presentation skills.
Support students in preparing for public presentations, including thesis defense, panel discussions, and policy-related speaking engagements.
Collaborate with the Public Policy Manager to ensure all students are placed in appropriate fellowship experiences that align with their research interests and career aspirations.
Monitor student progress in fellowships, providing academic support and reflection opportunities to ensure a meaningful learning experience.
Curriculum Development & School-Wide Collaboration (10%) Engage in consistent reflection and review of curriculum and programs to best meet Chavez’s annual goals and mission.
Analyze classroom data and student work to drive continuous improvement and celebrate academic growth.
Attend all required staff meetings, professional development sessions, and team meetings, contributing to Chavez Schools’ vision for teaching excellence.
Participate in collaborative curriculum development, ensuring the Senior Thesis program evolves to meet the changing needs of students and the academic community.
Support the school’s overall enrollment and reenrollment efforts, including participation in recruitment, family engagement, and school events.