Eighth Grade Teacher

Eighth Grade Teacher

Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids Schools, St. Mary's School, Spring Lake, Michigan.

Job : 5818709
Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled
Posted: Jul 07, 2026 12:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: To Be Determined

Title: Eighth Grade Teacher

Reports to: Principal and Pastor

Status: Salary, non-exempt

The Eighth Grade Teacher serves as both an academic instructor and a faith leader, supporting students as they prepare for the transition from elementary school to high school and for the Sacrament of Confirmation. This role includes guiding students through a deeper understanding of their Catholic faith, coordinating Confirmation preparation, and planning both a Confirmation retreat and the annual 8th grade class trip to Mackinac.

The teacher fosters a Christ-centered classroom environment that promotes academic excellence, spiritual maturity, leadership, and responsibility.

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to the mission and Catholic identity of the school
• Actively model Gospel values and mentor students in faith, character, and leadership
• Support students and families through preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
• Collaborate with the pastor, DRE, and school leadership in sacramental planning and retreat coordination
• Plan and lead a meaningful Confirmation retreat experience that deepens students’ relationship with Christ and understanding of the Holy Spirit
• Organize and supervise the 8th grade class trip to Mackinac, ensuring safety, learning, and community-building
• Maintain strong communication with families regarding academic expectations, sacramental preparation, and class activities
• Exhibit strong classroom management, organization, and instructional planning skills
• Use data to inform instruction and support student readiness for high school
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse academic needs
• Maintain confidentiality and professional discretion at all times
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, paraprofessionals, and volunteers

• Deliver rigorous, standards-based instruction in theology and social studies
• Prepare students academically for high school expectations
• Design lessons with clear objectives, aligned assessments, and meaningful learning experiences
• Use formative and summative assessments to guide instruction and ensure student mastery

• Integrate Catholic teachings, prayer, and Gospel values throughout instruction and classroom life
• Foster a classroom culture that encourages reflection, responsibility, and spiritual growth
• Guide students in understanding their role as young Catholics preparing for Confirmation
• Lead students in prayer experiences that deepen their relationship with God and the Church

• Coordinate and implement preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
• Collaborate with parish leadership to support catechesis, sponsor involvement, and liturgical preparation
• Plan and lead a Confirmation retreat focused on faith formation, prayer, reflection, and community
• Support students in developing a personal understanding of the Holy Spirit and their call to discipleship
• Communicate regularly with families regarding sacramental requirements and expectations

• Plan, organize, and supervise the 8th grade trip to Mackinac as a culminating educational and community experience
• Ensure all safety protocols, logistics, and permissions are followed
• Integrate learning objectives that connect to history, culture, and class community building
• Foster student responsibility, leadership, and respectful behavior during travel experiences

• Maintain a structured, respectful, and Christ-centered classroom environment
• Establish clear expectations that support student independence and responsibility
• Use positive reinforcement, specific feedback, and restorative practices to guide behavior
• Promote student leadership, collaboration, and ownership of learning

• Use a variety of…