An Elementary School Teacher teaches elementary school students, usually children ages 5 - 11 who are in kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade, in a public or private school. Teaches all subjects, including reading, writing, math, social studies and science, to one class throughout the school year. Plans curriculum and assesses student progress, manages student behavior and communicates with school parents. May specialize in teaching music, art or physical education, or teach students that are learning English, or work with students with learning disabilities or emotional and behavioral disorders.
Palo Alto, California Overview Imagination Lab School (ILS) in Palo Alto is a small, progressive TK-8 school integrating social-emotional learning (SEL), project-based learning (PBL), and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to nurture agency, belonging, and competence. The First Grade Lead Teacher will join a collaborative, mission-driven faculty dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, confidence, and connection in young learners. The ideal candidate is an experienced progressive educator who skillfully blends academic rigor with joyful exploration, SEL integration, and hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. The ideal candidate is an experienced progressive educator who skillfully blends academic rigor with joyful exploration, SEL integration, and hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. Responsibilities Create a classroom culture rooted in care, curiosity, and collaboration. Design and facilitate integrated thematic units connected to real-world contexts and student interests. Guide students in developing strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and inquiry. Incorporate social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and opportunities for student agency into daily routines. Collaborate with colleagues to plan and reflect on student learning and school-wide initiatives. Differentiate instruction to support a range of academic strengths, learning profiles, and developmental needs. Maintain regular thoughtful communication with families through conferences, newsletters, and student portfolios. How to Apply Please email a cover letter and resume to hr@imagination-school.org with the role in the subject line. Qualifications An experienced progressive educator with a deep understanding of child development, inquiry-based, and project-based learning. Bachelor's degree in Education or related field (Master's preferred). Passion for creating inclusive and culturally responsive classroom environments. Excellent communication and organizational skills. Experience teaching first grade or early elementary students in a progressive, inquiry-based, or project-based learning environment. Deep understanding of early childhood and elementary development and developmentally appropriate practice. Bachelor's degree in education or a related field; master's degree preferred. Experience designing differentiated learning experiences for students with a range of strengths and learning profiles. Commitment to creating an inclusive and culturally responsive classroom environment. Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills. A reflective, flexible, and joyful approach to teaching and learning.
