Independence was founded in 1978 by parents seeking a challenging education that would be strong in the academic areas, arts, foreign languages, and athletics. Today, the school occupies a 90-acre campus in the Pike Creek Valley (near Hockessin, Newark, and Wilmington, Cecil County, MD, and southeastern Chester County, PA), and features state of the art facilities and outdoor classrooms.
The Independence School, an independent day school welcoming children age 3 through 8th Grade, provides an exceptionally strong academic foundation and so much more. At Independence, students learn to think for themselves. They learn independence. Our school mission, beliefs, and core values guide us to ensure we offer students an unparalleled educational experience, opportunities for leadership and a welcoming community for the entire family.
We encourage you to learn more about our school. Please click the link below.
https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-opportunities
Lower School Teacher – 1st Grade
Direct Supervisor:
Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
FLSA:
Exempt
Type:
Full-Time Faculty Employee
The 1st Grade Teacher is a creative, passionate, and student-centered educator who demonstrates superior and current knowledge of elementary education and best practices. This teacher is dedicated to fostering a love of learning while developing foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth. They elicit engaging, hands‑on, and meaningful learning experiences for all students.
Professional Attributes
High energy and enthusiasm with the ability to learn quickly, make an immediate impact, and implement new initiativesFlexibility and openness to work on a variety of assignmentsStrong communication and interpersonal skills, displaying the ability to connect and build relationships with employees, students, and parentsConfidence in professional aptitude, with the ability to effectively convey skills and knowledgePositive team player with a strong desire to be an active, long‑term participant in the growth of the SchoolSupports and aligns with the School’s philosophy, mission, values, and policiesCommitment to fostering and supporting a safe and healthy atmosphere and an inclusive communityDuties and Responsibilities
Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that align with the School’s elementary curriculum and standardsTeach core subjects such as reading, writing, math, and social studies using a variety of methods, including hands‑on exploration, discussion, explicit instruction, and integration of technologyDifferentiate instruction to meet the academic and developmental needs of all studentsAssess student progress using observations, data from online platforms, and various assessments; provide timely and constructive feedback to students and their parents/guardiansCreate a positive and supportive classroom environment that promotes student engagement, independence, and collaborationIncorporate social‑emotional learning and character development into daily routines and lessonsCollaborate with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects and activitiesCommunicate effectively with families, providing updates on student progress and classroom activitiesAttend meetings, participate in school‑wide events, and pursue professional development opportunities to stay up‑to‑date on evidence‑based practices in elementary educationUtilize the 90-acre campus as an extension of the classroom for hands‑on exploration and learning opportunities.Perform other duties as assignedSkills, Knowledge, and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or above in elementary education or a related fieldAt least 2 years of experience teaching at the elementary school level, preferably in 1st grade or a similar age groupPossesses a strong understanding of child development and learning progressions to effectively support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth.Demonstrates an understanding of research-based instructional practices, including the Science of Reading, to support literacy development and student achievement.Excellent classroom management skills that promote a positive learning environmentStrong organizational and planning skills with attention to detailAptitude to learn new systems, software, and platforms, including student information systemsComfortable in a Windows environment and with Google Workspace/MS Office.High level of confidentiality and discretionThe 1st Grade Teacher is a 10‑month position and follows the academic calendar.
12/15/25
The Independence School prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
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