Fourth Grade Reading Teacher

The School:

Athens Academy is a co-educational, non-sectarian, independent college preparatory day school of approximately 910 students in grades K3-12 that offers a traditional liberal arts curriculum and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.  The school’s mission is to seek “excellence with honor in the educational and personal experience of each student.”  Situated on a picturesque campus of 152 acres, Athens Academy admits students from diverse social, economic, religious, and racial backgrounds--all of whom benefit from a challenging academic program, a vibrant arts program, competitive athletics, and a variety of service opportunities.  Athens Academy faculty and staff members are dedicated professionals who are not only experts in their respective fields of study, but are also sensitive to the gifts and challenges of individual students. 

 The Lower School:

Lower School students (grades 1-4) at Athens Academy acquire a strong foundation in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, while also learning about responsibility, collaboration, and self-expression. A science laboratory classroom with a specialist teacher, a media center with a story telling room, and a discovery center used for a variety of activities all support classroom instruction. Spanish, music, art, drama, and physical education classes are also woven into the fabric of the curriculum. Building upon traits developed as early as the Preschool, Lower School students are proud to uphold the concepts of mutual respect and kindness, as indicated by the “Kind Language Spoken Here” signs throughout the campus. The Lower School is composed of 250 students supported by approximately 30 teachers, assistant teachers, and instructional support staff.

The Position:

Athens Academy seeks a dynamic, creative, and collaborative, full-time fourth grade reading teacher, beginning in August 2023. This is a departmentalized position responsible for leading the reading program for the grade level. Candidates will also teach a writing and language arts class for their homeroom. We are looking for a person who can inspire young readers to engage them in trying multiple book genres. The ideal candidate should have a love of youth literature with creative ideas to make reading fun. The position will be part of an experienced fourth grade team that is looking for a communicator who is flexible and organized. The position requires a compassionate, energetic, and versatile individual to work closely with students, parents, fellow teachers, and administrators to support the mission of the school by promoting excellence with honor in the educational and personal experience of each child.

Requirements:

·       Bachelor’s degree or higher.

·       Three or more years of experience working with children at the elementary level.

·       A genuine interest in working with this age group and engaging them in meaningful ways.

Application Process:

The school will accept materials from interested candidates until the position is filled. 

A completed packet will include the following components:

·       Cover letter expressing interest in Athens Academy and this position

·       Statement of educational philosophy, including thoughts on opportunities for teaching and learning in today’s educational environment

·       Resume or curriculum vitae

·       Names of three references and contact information

Interested candidates are encouraged to send their materials to:

Jenny Richardson, Lower School Assistant

Athens Academy

1281 Spartan Lane

Athens, GA   30606

jrichardson@athensacademy.org

(706) 549-9225

Additional Information:

Several years ago, the faculty created the following list to describe the desired traits of Athens Academy faculty and administrators.  It is included in the spirit of providing some additional insight into what we value as a community of learners.

· Commitment to the school’s mission

· Passion and ability to meet the needs of each student, instructionally and emotionally—students are our highest priority and all we do/every decision we make is with their well-being in mind

· Knowledge of subject matter taught

· Knowledge of instructional methods being used and potential for introducing/supporting new instructional methods, including incorporating technological advances

· Professionalism in interactions with parents, students, colleagues, and the community

· Ability to lead and ability to work in a team

· Commitment to continuous professional improvement

· Positivity and effectiveness as a communicator

· Passion for subject matter taught

· Focus on family and community

· Participation in the life of the school beyond the classroom

· Advocacy for individual students

Thank you for your interest in Athens Academy.

Athens Academy is an equal opportunity employer and educational institution. In hiring, the school will select the best-qualified applicant without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, handicap, veteran status, or sexual orientation.