Social Studies

Position: Social Studies (6-8)
Social Studies Teacher (3-8)

Reports To:

School Principal

Department:
Social Studies

Grade Level: 6-8

Classification:
Full-Time, Exempt

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, the Social Studies Teacher develops students' understanding of history, geography, civics, and economics - and their capacity to think critically about the world they inhabit. The teacher guides students in grades 6-8 through inquiry-driven exploration of communities, cultures, historical events, and democratic institutions, building informed, engaged, and empathetic citizens prepared to participate meaningfully in civic life.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

* Develops, plans, and delivers strong Tier 1 social studies instruction aligned with the Indiana Academic Standards (IAS) for Social Studies across grades 6-8, integrating the four core disciplines:
History, Geography, Civics and Government, and Economics.

* Provides instruction in IAS-aligned content including: world geography, ancient civilizations, civics, and world history (grades 6-7); U.S. history and civics (grade
8); and economic concepts and financial literacy integrated across grade levels.

* Designs and implements inquiry-based lessons using primary and secondary sources, maps, data, and current events to develop students' historical thinking and civic reasoning skills.

* Creates a safe, inclusive, and student-centered classroom environment that encourages respectful dialogue, diverse perspectives, and critical thinking about complex social and historical topics.

* Integrates reading and writing into social studies instruction, supporting literacy development through nonfiction text analysis, document-based questions, argumentative writing, and research projects.

* Differentiates instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including students with IEPs, English Language Learners, and advanced learners.

* Conducts ongoing formative and summative assessments; uses data to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly.

* Maintains familiarity with Indiana state standardized assessments (ILEARN) and adapts curriculum to support student achievement.

* Communicates regularly and effectively with students, families, and colleagues regarding student progress and classroom expectations.

* Maintains accurate, complete records of student attendance, grades, and learning activities in compliance with district and state requirements.

* Collaborates with grade-level teams, ELA colleagues, interventionists, and special education staff to support integrated and cross-disciplinary learning.

* Manages appropriate instructional resources, primary source documents, maps, technology tools, and materials to support social studies learning.

* Participates in professional development, faculty meetings, and school improvement initiatives.

* Upholds school and district behavioral standards and fosters a respectful, intellectually curious classroom culture.

Additional Duties

Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal or designee in support of the school's educational mission.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

* Strong content knowledge across grades 6-8 social studies, including U.S. and world history, geography, civics and government, and economics aligned to Indiana Academic Standards.

* Experience integrating literacy skills - particularly nonfiction reading and argumentative writing - into social studies instruction preferred.

* Knowledge of current social studies pedagogy, including inquiry-based learning, document analysis, project-based learning, and civic engagement strategies.

* Understanding of differentiated instruction and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).

* Ability to use student assessment data to drive instructional decision-making.

* Proficiency with educational technology, digital maps and primary source databases, and learning management systems.

* Strong communication and collaboration skills with students, families, and colleagues.

* Knowledge of applicable Indiana and federal education laws and regulations.

Qualifications

* Indiana Teaching License with endorsement in Elementary Education (grades 1-6) or Middle School Social Studies (grades 5-9) required.

* Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Education, History, Political Science, Geography, or a related field required.

* Master's degree preferred.

* Prior successful teaching experience at the elementary or middle school level preferred.

* Demonstrated record of improving student achievement outcomes preferred.

How to Apply

We are seeking mission-driven educators who believe all students can achieve at high levels and who are committed to strong instruction, continuous improvement, and collaboration. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and teaching license through Nimble.