Grade 5 - English & History Teacher

Grades 5 - English & History Teacher Albany Academy is an independent Pre-K through Grade 12 school in Albany, New York, fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and strong character in each student. At the heart of our school is a passionate and highly skilled faculty, deeply committed to the academic, social, and emotional development of every student. Our educators go beyond classroom instruction; they serve as mentors, role models, and advocates who support the growth of the whole child. Through small class sizes and individualized attention, they challenge students with a rigorous, engaging curriculum while nurturing confidence, creativity, and resilience. Albany Academy's dynamic community values and celebrates diverse perspectives and life experiences, enriching the learning environment for all. Aligned with our Mission and Core Values, we are steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and academically excellent school culture—one where students are inspired to lead lives of purpose, empathy, and integrity. Position Summary The 5th Grade English/History Teacher is responsible for creating a dynamic, student-centered learning environment that fosters a love of literature, writing, critical thinking, and historical inquiry. Teaching two sections of 5th grade across both disciplines, the successful candidate will bridge literacy and history instruction, helping students explore the human experience through stories, primary sources, and research. This position includes teaching English and History courses, advising students, collaborating with Lower/Middle School colleagues, and actively participating in the broader life of the school.

Essential Responsibilities Teaching & Learning Dual-Subject Instruction:

Teach two sections of 5th-grade English and two sections of 5th-grade History, aligning lessons with departmental goals and school standards.

Integrated Skill Development:

Design engaging lessons that develop students' reading comprehension, writing mechanics, analytical thinking, and historical literacy.

Inquiry-Based Learning:

Foster thoughtful classroom discussion, historical curiosity, and a foundational understanding of research and citizenship.

Differentiation:

Differentiate instruction to support a diverse range of 5th-grade learners, balancing academic rigor with developmental support.

Assessment & Feedback:

Provide timely, constructive feedback on student writing, projects, and assessments to guide growth.

Communication:

Maintain accurate records of student progress and communicate proactively and regularly with families.

Curriculum & Collaboration Interdisciplinary Alignment:

Collaborate with grade-level and departmental colleagues to integrate English and History curricula, creating meaningful connections for students.

Instructional Innovation:

Integrate a variety of instructional methods, technology tools, and hands-on projects suited for the 5th-grade level.

Professional Growth:

Stay current with best practices in literacy, social studies education, and late-elementary/early-adolescent development.

Community Contribution:

Participate actively in faculty meetings, professional development days, and school-wide initiatives.

Student Support & Community Engagement Holistic Support:

Serve as a student advisor, supporting students' academic, social, and emotional transition into upper-elementary life.

Relationship Building:

Build positive, collaborative relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

Community Involvement:

Contribute to the school community through extracurricular involvement, clubs, coaching, or other school activities.

Professionalism:

Uphold and model the school's mission, values, and standards of professionalism.

Qualifications Education:

Bachelor's degree in English, History, Elementary/Middle School Education, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

Teaching experience at the 5th grade, Middle School, or Upper Elementary level preferred.

Subject Expertise:

Strong background in writing instruction, grammar, literature, and foundational historical concepts/research skills.

Skills:

Excellent communication, organizational, and classroom management skills tailored to 10- and 11-year-olds.

Inclusion:

Demonstrated ability to connect with students and foster an inclusive, culturally responsive classroom environment.

Preferred Characteristics Age-Group Enthusiast:

A genuine enthusiasm for working with 5th-grade students and navigating their unique developmental stage.

Creative Connection-Maker:

Ability to bring creativity, flexibility, and high energy to the classroom, especially when weaving English and History themes together.

Community-Minded:

A strong desire to build relationships and embrace the responsibilities of independent school life beyond the classroom.

Student Advocate:

A commitment to encouraging student voice, curiosity, self-advocacy, and confidence. Physical Requirements Ability to work in a classroom environment for extended periods. Ability to communicate effectively in person and in writing. Occasional evening or weekend responsibilities may be required for school events, conferences, and admissions activities. Disclaimer Must be capable of fully performing all duties described herein, either without or with reasonable accommodation Albany Academy reserves the right to alter this job description Employment with Albany Academy is at-will