Lead Jewish Heritage Teacher

The Lead Teacher of the Am Shalom Congregation's Jewish Heritage School is responsible for implementing the educational leadership and administrative management of the school community. Reporting to the Rabbi/Head of School and the Board of Directors, the Lead Teacher ensures the delivery of a high-quality Hebrew and Judaic studies program that fosters a deep connection to Jewish identity, values, and tradition for students and their families.

School takes place on Saturdays from 10:00am to 12:30pm Sept through mid June.

Key Responsibilities
1. Staff Management and Leadership

Recruitment and Hiring:
In partnership with the Head of School, identify potential teaching candidates who align with the values and pedagogical goals of Am Shalom.

Supervision and Support:
Provide ongoing mentorship and professional development for teaching staff; conduct regular classroom observations and performance reviews.

Team Building:
Lead regular staff meetings to ensure curriculum alignment, share best practices, and maintain a collaborative, supportive teaching environment.

Scheduling:
Manage teacher assignments, substitute coverage, and the annual school calendar.

2. Curriculum Development and Implementation
(in partnership with Am Shalom’s Rabbi /Head of School)

Hebrew Language Program:
Oversee the implementation of a Hebrew reading and comprehension curriculum (e.g., Mitkadem or similar) tailored to various age groups and skill levels.

Reform Judaic Studies:
Oversee and maintain the implementation of a comprehensive Reform Judaic studies curriculum covering Torah, Jewish history, holidays, ethics (Middot), and Israel.

Educational Standards:
Ensure that all lessons are developmentally appropriate, engaging, and consistent with the inclusive and egalitarian values of the congregation.

Resource Management:
Select and procure textbooks, digital tools, and classroom materials to enhance the learning experience.

3. Communication and Community Engagement

Parent Relations:
Serve as the primary point of contact for parents; provide regular updates on school news, student progress, and upcoming events.

Conflict Resolution:
Address parental concerns or student behavioral issues with empathy, discretion, and a solution-oriented approach.

Synagogue Integration:
Work closely with the Rabbi to integrate school programming with congregational life, including family services, holiday celebrations, and B’nai Mitzvah preparation.

Ensure Integration of Diverse Learning Needs:
Work in partnership with parents and teachers to make sure that all students have the learning supports they need, within reason and within the school’s budget and staffing capacities.

Marketing and Enrollment:
Promote the school to prospective families and manage the annual registration process, in partnership with Am Shalom’s administrator.

4. Administrative and Financial Oversight (in partnership w/ Am Shalom’s administrator)

Budgeting:
Assist the Board and Head of School in developing the annual school budget and ensure responsible allocation of resources.

Record Keeping:
Maintain accurate records of student attendance, progress reports, and emergency contact information.

Safety and Compliance:
Ensure the school environment meets all health and safety standards and that all staff have valid background checks (Vulnerable Sector Screening).

Qualifications

Deep knowledge of Reform Jewish traditions, Hebrew language, and Israel.

Proven experience in educational leadership or classroom teaching.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, lay leadership, and diverse families.

A degree in childhood, Jewish and/or early education is highly preferred.

Pay: $25.00-$50.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person

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