High School AP Capstone Teacher

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success.

We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

Uncommon High School AP Capstone teachers are passionate about research and building an engaging, rigorous classroom culture focusing on helping all students gain the skills they need for college. Our teachers become experts in their course content, and have a keen sense of how to motivate and inspire high school students. At the heart of our AP Capstone classes is an emphasis on skill-building, communication and collaboration.

Teachers facilitate student-directed research projects, building confidence in students to take on increasingly complex projects. At the conclusion of the AP Capstone program at Uncommon students will have planned, conducted, and presented their own research leaving them more prepared for the academic rigor and independence of college coursework.

Responsibilities

1. Instruction

• You'll teach from a robust curriculum shared across our high schools that prioritizes topical issues, teaches students how to collaborate with others, and engages students in the research process.
• You’ll facilitate student-led research projects in AP Capstone courses by consistently reviewing student progress and using questions to steer projects in an appropriate direction.
• You’ll develop students’ independent and collaborative reading, writing, and discussion skills through several long term individual and group assignments.
• You'll prepare for and conduct one-on-one and small group conferences, teaching students how to critique and revise their own work.
• You’ll stay current on student progress and comprehension, regularly writing and adapting lessons to maximize student learning.
• You’ll partner with your department and your grade level team on content and instructional strategies that support your students and help all students succeed.
• You’ll attend a week long summer training required and led by the College Board for the AP Capstone courses you teach.

2. Data Analysis

• You'll meet weekly with your principal and/or instructional coach to analyze and respond to trends in student work samples and assessments.
• You'll learn and implement strategies to differentiate instruction for all learners in your classroom.

3. School Culture

• You’ll build positive relationships with students to ensure they feel seen, loved, and heard.
• You’ll partner with students’ families to ensure appropriate resources are available to support their child's learning needs.
• You'll engage in practice-based professional development, mentorship, and coaching sessions.
• You'll participate in weekly, school-wide meetings to cultivate community, model our core values, and encourage student achievement.
• You'll partner with your grade level team to develop academic goals and practice instructional strategies.

Qualifications

Strong applicants for all teaching roles (new and experienced) will possess the following:

• Relentless drive to improve the minds, characters & lives of students both in and out of school
• Unwavering commitment to urban youth achieving greatness
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is a must
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for relevant academic subjects
• Evidence of self-motivation, willingness to be a team player, and a strong sense of personal responsibility
• Ability and desire to implement feedback from school leaders and colleagues to become a more effective educator in service to our students.
• A background in education is not required for new teachers, but strong candidates should show a demonstrated passion for working…