Upper School Social Studies Teacher

Summary

Principia is seeking a dynamic and knowledgeable Upper School Social Studies Educator to teach advanced history and social science courses for students in grades 10-12, including Dual Credit (DC) and Advanced Placement (AP) offerings. The ideal candidate brings deep content expertise and a passion for inquiry-based, student-centered learning that inspires students to think critically, conduct meaningful research, and communicate thoughtfully-skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Reporting to the Upper School History Department Chair, this educator will lead engaging, discussion-driven courses that connect historical study to contemporary global, civic, and cultural issues. The role also offers the opportunity to design and pilot new elective courses, blending traditional historical scholarship with innovative, interdisciplinary approaches that reflect the evolving nature of the field.

Who We Are

At our award-winning Early Childhood through grade 12 Principia School in St. Louis, Missouri, and top-ranked Principia College in Elsah, Illinois, Principia faculty and staff make up a close-knit community of educators, coaches, and professionals taking a distinct approach to education-blending academic excellence with Christian Science-based character education. Principia's team of over 500 employees supports not only Principia School and Principia College, but also a worldwide network of alumni and friends.

At Principia School, our core value is LOVE. Love and its attributes underpin our foundational beliefs as well as our educational approach. We focus on developing the whole child-intellectually, physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually, preparing students for the next steps in life. We foster a challenging yet supportive environment where character unfolds naturally, and talent is cultivated through boundless opportunities. Character education plays an essential role in every aspect of the student experience, and classroom work is augmented by character trips, leadership development, and real-world, hands-on, project-based learning.

Principia employees are part of an engaging academic community preparing students to be tomorrow's leaders, thinkers, and changemakers. We strive to create a collaborative and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong and are valued.

Primary Responsibilities

* Foster a genuine enthusiasm for working with high school students and support their academic, social, and character development.

* Design and deliver engaging, student-centered instruction that incorporates real-world applications, integrates 21st-century skills, and effectively utilizes a 1:1 technology environment

* Build strong, inclusive relationships with diverse learners, supporting student growth and helping all students recognize and reach their potential

* Collaborate productively with colleagues, parents, and administrators, contributing to the Social Studies Department, professional learning communities, and shared curricular initiatives

* Communicate clearly, professionally, and consistently in both oral and written forms, including advising and conferencing with a small group of Upper School students

* Establish and maintain a positive classroom culture through effective classroom management practices that promote responsibility, respect, and character education

* Demonstrate strong organizational, problem-solving, and project-management skills, including timely planning and follow-through for instructional responsibilities, events, and trips

* Engage in ongoing professional growth by continually developing content expertise, instructional practices, and technical skills to enhance student learning

Secondary Responsibilities

* Demonstrates a strong interest and commitment to working with a wide range of students, helping them feel successful and recognize their unlimited potential

* Demonstrates commitment to preparing students to be thoughtful, informed, and active citizens

* Recognizes character education as an essential and natural part of daily classroom and ensemble instruction

* Collaborates effectively with colleagues, coaches, parents, houseparents, and administrators to…