High School Religion Teacher: Bishop McNamara Catholic High School, Kankakee, IL

High School Religion Teacher

Diocese of Joliet-in-Illinois Catholic Schools  Full-time Position available:
August, 2025 Work Schedule Status:
Full-time with Benefits About Bishop McNamara Catholic School Bishop McNamara Catholic School, a Catholic co-educational school dedicated to maximizing the potential of its students, spiritually, morally, and intellectually is currently accepting applications for a High School Religion Teacher. As a member of the Bishop McNamara faculty, the teacher has every opportunity to make the difference in a student's life. The Bishop McNamara learning environment is one in which the teacher is educating with a purpose and guided by a mission and vision for success.

The school environment is focused on community. The classroom environment is conducive to learning and the Bishop McNamara student expects to be challenged and to broaden his/her learning experience.

Instructional Expectations Under the general supervision of the school principal, the teacher will:

• Serve as a positive role model and support the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church at all times.
• Create a vibrant Catholic culture within his or her classroom that is emphasized through the candidate's words, deeds, and actions.
• Facilitate student success and growth in both academics and interpersonal skills.
• Document student progress, activities, and outcomes.
• Actively participate in building committees and/or Professional Learning Communities.
• Utilize available technology to enhance lessons.
• Differentiate instruction to address specific educational needs of individual students.
• Create a flexible, safe, and optimal learning environment.
• Regularly provide feedback to students, parents and administration regarding student progress, expectations, and goals.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Instruction & Curriculum Development:
  Teach Catholic theology, Scripture, morality, sacraments, Church history, and social justice in alignment with Diocesan standards and the Magisterium. Develop lesson plans that integrate faith formation, critical thinking, and real-world application. Use engaging and age-appropriate teaching methods (discussions, projects, multimedia, etc.).
• Faith Formation & Witness:
  Model a Christ-centered life and uphold Catholic teachings in and out of the classroom. Encourage student participation in Mass, retreats, prayer services, and service projects. Foster a classroom environment rooted in Gospel values (love, mercy, justice, and discipleship).
• Assessment & Student Growth:
  Evaluate student progress through exams, essays, presentations, and participation. Provide constructive feedback and support students' spiritual and academic growth. Address diverse learning needs with differentiated instruction.
• Collaboration & Professional Development:
  Work with Campus Ministry, and Administration to strengthen the school's Catholic identity. Attend Diocesan workshops, faculty meetings, and faith formation programs. Stay updated on Church documents (e.g., Catechism, Vatican II, Papal encyclicals).
• Pastoral Care & Community Engagement:
  Mentor students in their faith journey, offering guidance on moral and spiritual matters. Support school-wide Catholic traditions (Advent, Lent, May Crowning, etc.). Engage with parents and the parish community to reinforce Catholic education.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Theological & Doctrinal Knowledge:
  Strong understanding of Catholic theology, Scripture, and Tradition. Ability to teach in accordance with the Catechism of the Catholic Church and Diocesan guidelines. Familiarity with ecumenical and interreligious dialogue (when applicable).
• Teaching & Communication:
  Excellent classroom management and instructional skills. Ability to make complex theological concepts accessible to teens. Strong verbal and written communication. Ability to communicate with all constituents including (but not limited to);
  School administration, colleagues, students, parents, and prospective parents.
• Spiritual & Personal Qualities: A practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church (may require a Diocesan catechist certification or Virtus training). Compliance with Diocesan Safe Environment policies…