First Grade Classroom Teacher

First Grade Classroom Teacher

Opportunity Statement

Villa Academy is an inclusive independent school community dedicated to developing the whole child in the Cabrinian tradition of “education of the heart.” Through dynamic, inquiry-based learning, Villa students become active agents of their own intellectual growth in preparation for lives of service and purpose. 

Villa Academy seeks a full-time First Grade Teacher to join its team beginning August 20, 2026. This classroom teacher will partner with another first grade teacher and instructional assistant, in addition to a number of subject specialists. Beyond the classroom, they will have access to Villa’s multi-acre outdoor space featuring wooded trails, a garden, an outdoor learning pavilion and a greenhouse. This elementary grade educator will actively participate in professional development, school events, and the chance to shape and grow our dynamic, inquiry-based program. This is a ten-month, non-exempt position that follows the academic calendar, reporting to the Director of Lower School.

The ideal candidate is an inspired educator with an expansive knowledge of 1st grade education with an emphasis on academic differentiation and embedding social emotional learning into daily classroom practices. They will be enthusiastic, informed, engaging, and experienced in inquiry-based, student-centered learning. They will know, appreciate, and enjoy young learners and be well-versed in their developmental needs. This candidate will also have the ability to simultaneously plan, organize, and manage multiple projects, and enjoy collaborating with other educators.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Teach one 1st grade class.
• Plan and execute inquiry-based lessons in accordance with Villa Academy’s 1st grade learning standards, including Common Core, NGSS, SSSI, and Learning for Justice.
• Cultivate a positive classroom community amongst the school’s 1st grade program utilizing Villa’s Responsive Classroom and Zones of Regulation.
• Partner with the 1st grade and other Lower School teaching teams in cultivating 2nd grade readiness for all learners.
• Assess, evaluate, and provide feedback on student performance. 
• Partner with families, colleagues, and leadership to appropriately challenge and support students.
• Communicate clearly, kindly, productively, and effectively with families.
• Commit to the mission, vision, and values of Villa Academy.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred.
• Knowledge of, and experience with, applying inquiry-based learning in early childhood educational settings.
• Appreciation and enjoyment of 1st grade students and an understanding of their learning and development.
• Experience utilizing effective classroom support strategies and positive relationship-building practices for young learners, particularly as it relates to the Responsive Classroom approach.
• Experience with and appreciation for purposeful play as well as interdisciplinary, STEAM-focused, and project-based learning.
• A willingness and enthusiasm for making Villa Academy’s outdoor spaces an integral part of the curriculum and instruction.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Skill with using instructional technology effectively, including interactive whiteboards, document cameras, Google Apps for Education, and integrated student information systems.
• Positive energy and enthusiasm for working in a Preschool through Eighth Grade, faith-based independent school.
• A commitment to ongoing professional growth, curiosity, cultural humility, and antiracism, as well as an understanding of its critical role in academic excellence and student growth.

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS:

The anticipated salary range for this position is $54,900.85–$126,246.40 annually, in accordance with the Villa Academy Faculty Salary Scale and based on education and experience. Villa Academy also offers a robust benefits package for full-time employees, including employer-paid medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions, Flexible Spending Accounts, free parking, potential for graduate school tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please provide, via email to villa-hiring@thevilla.org, a current resume including relevant educational experience and three professional references.

Villa Academy is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal rules and regulations. Villa Academy does not discriminate in admission, access, treatment, or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, gender presentation, sex, sexual orientation, creed, age, national origin, marital status or ability.