Middle Elementary School Teacher

Pathfinder School — Traverse City, Michigan

Position Summary

Pathfinder School seeks a dynamic, reflective, and student-centered Middle Elementary School Teacher who is committed to cultivating both intellectual facility and self-assurance in every student. The ideal candidate believes deeply in the capacity of children to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, create boldly, and take ownership of their learning.

This educator will design and facilitate engaging, inquiry-driven learning experiences that foster academic growth while also developing responsibility, initiative, resilience, and confidence. The Middle Elementary School Teacher serves as both a guide and mentor, creating a classroom culture where students are challenged, supported, and empowered to become capable, curious, and compassionate learners. The Teacher will also facilitate class meetings in her or his role as Homeroom Teacher.

About Pathfinder School

At Pathfinder School, our mission centers on two essential outcomes for students:

• Intellectual Facility — developing the ability to think critically, solve problems creatively, communicate effectively, and apply learning with depth and flexibility.
• Self-Assurance — nurturing confidence, independence, responsibility, initiative, and a strong sense of personal agency.

Instruction and Learning Design

• Design and implement engaging, interdisciplinary (focusing on Math, Language Arts, and Social Studies) learning experiences aligned with academic standards and Pathfinder’s educational philosophy.
• Foster a classroom environment that promotes inquiry, exploration, creativity, and intellectual risk-taking.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the developmental and academic needs of diverse learners.
• Utilize project-based, experiential, and collaborative learning approaches.
• Encourage students to take ownership of their learning through goal-setting, reflection, and self-assessment.
• Integrate opportunities for critical thinking, problem-solving, discussion, and innovation across subject areas.
• Support students in developing strong communication, organizational, and executive functioning skills.

Student Development and Classroom Culture

• Build a classroom culture grounded in mutual respect, responsibility, inclusion, and belonging.
• Cultivate student self-assurance by encouraging independence, perseverance, and thoughtful decision-making.
• Serve as a mentor and trusted adult who supports students’ social-emotional development.
• Promote student voice, agency, and leadership within the classroom community.
• Help students develop accountability for their work, behavior, and contributions to the community.

Collaboration and Community

• Collaborate closely with colleagues to design curriculum, support student growth, and strengthen school culture.
• Maintain strong communication and partnerships with families.
• Participate actively in school meetings, professional learning, and community events.
• Contribute positively to the continued growth and evolution of Pathfinder School.

Assessment and Reflection

• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student growth and inform instruction.
• Provide meaningful feedback that supports both academic development and student confidence.
• Reflect regularly on teaching practices and pursue ongoing professional growth.
• Document and communicate student progress effectively with students and families.