7th & 8th Grade | Electives Teacher

Job Summary
High Jump is hiring an Elective Teacher to join our Saturday Sessions for the 2026–2027 academic year.

The Elective Teacher will work with middle school scholars in a small-group setting, designing and leading a teacher-created course focused on the arts or STEAM. Teachers will submit a course proposal outlining their course idea and learning goals, which must be reviewed and approved by a High Jump team member before the course begins.

Location
We are currently hiring an Electives Teacher at:

• Latin School of Chicago (59 W North Blvd, Chicago, IL 60610)
• University of Chicago Lab Schools (5835 South Kimbark Ave, Chicago, IL 60637)

Teachers will work in person at one of these campuses for the Saturday Sessions.

What You’ll Do:

• Design and lead an engaging arts or STEAM focused course, using an approved course proposal.
• Develop lessons and activities that encourage creativity, exploration, and student participation.
• Create a classroom environment that is safe, welcoming, and supportive of student learning.
• Build positive relationships with scholars and encourage curiosity, confidence, and academic growth.
• Provide opportunities for students to experiment, collaborate, create, and share their work.
• Track student progress and provide feedback on student work and projects.
• Communicate with Teaching Assistants and High Jump staff about classroom needs and student progress.
• Adjust instruction and classroom activities to meet the needs of individual students.

We’re looking for teachers who:

• Enjoy working with middle school students and know how to connect with this age group.
• Create classrooms where students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn.
• Build positive relationships with students while maintaining clear and consistent expectations.
• Are engaging, creative, and able to make learning accessible to students with different needs and learning styles.
• Are patient, flexible, and willing to adjust their approach based on what students need.
• Encourage curiosity, participation, and confidence in the classroom.
• Are dependable and committed to showing up prepared and ready to engage with students each Saturday.

Schedule & Dates
Time: 7:45 AM–2:30 PM
Saturday Program Dates:

• September 26
• October 3, 17 (High School Fair), 24
• November 14 (ISEE Testing)
• December 5, 12
• January 9, 23
• February 20
• March 6
• April 3, 10, 24
• May 1, 15 (Tentative Make-Up Session)

Professional Development:
All Saturday program staff will participate in one day of professional development. Please tentatively hold September 19, 2026.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Associate's degree required; bachelor's degree preferred.
• Experience working with middle school students or in organizations that serve youth.
• Experience teaching, facilitating, or leading activities in an arts.
• Strong communication and classroom management skills.
• Ability to develop and facilitate an engaging course for middle school students.
• Commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Pay
The pay range for teachers varies based on experience and certification, typically ranging from $28–$40 per hour.
References
Please provide two professional references as part of your application.

Other Saturday Teaching Opportunities
High Jump is also hiring Saturday Teachers for other subject areas and campuses. Explore our other Math, Science, Elective and High School Choice opportunities.

Who referred you to this position? Enter their first and last name here.

What's your highest level of education completed?*

College or University*

Are you 18 years of age or older?*

References:
Please enter names and contact information:*

Are you considered a new hire for High Jump? (ex. You have never been paid by High Jump for any other previous work)*

Are you currently employed as a teacher? If yes, please provide the school/organization name and the grade/subject you teach. If no, please enter N/A.*

Do you currently hold a teaching license or certification? If yes, please indicate the type and state of issuance. If no, please enter N/A.*

What Elective course would you like to create and teach this school year? In a couple of sentences, describe your course idea and what students will learn, create or explore. As a reminder, Electives should be centered on STEAM or the arts.*

What kind of educator do you strive to be, and why High Jump? In a couple of sentences, share the values or experiences that shape your approach to teaching and what interests you about working with High Jump students.*

Are you able to attend all Saturday Sessions and required professional development?*

If no, please list any Saturday Sessions or required professional development dates you anticipate missing.

The following questions are entirely optional. To comply with government Equal Employment Opportunity and/or ... Learn more .