Sabot School, a progressive preschool-Grade 8 school in Richmond, and a leader in the Reggio Emilia Approach®,  seeks a Middle School Humanities Teacher-Researcher.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Grades 4-8, this role involves teaching an integrated humanities curriculum that combines English language arts, history, and social studies to 7th and 8th-grade students.

The ideal candidate will embrace the Reggio-Emilia philosophy, create opportunities for deep inquiry, and inspire students to think critically and creatively about the world around them. This position is responsible for enhancing and developing curricula and facilitating student project work. This position supports learning through an inquiry-based, social-constructivist, Reggio-inspired approach.

ESSENTIAL TASKS

• Teaches 7th and 8th Grade Humanities: Leads a section each of 8th Grade Global Studies/Language Arts and 7th Grade Civics/ Language Arts, with class sizes ranging from 10 to 18 students.
• Performs Additional Duties: Completes other related tasks as assigned by the Program Director based on scheduling teacher availability. Additional duties include but are not limited to,  teaching an elective course, running an Advisory group, or supervising a student club.
• Develops Curriculum: Designs and implements a culturally responsive humanities curriculum that integrates literature, civics, history, writing, and critical thinking skills. Ensures alignment with Reggio Emilia principles and Common Core Standards, incorporating interdisciplinary, inquiry-based projects that connect to real-world issues and student interests.
• Creates a Welcoming and Inclusive Classroom Environment: Establishes a space where all students feel safe to express themselves, take intellectual risks, and engage in collaborative problem-solving. Facilitates meaningful discussions and debates that foster critical thinking, empathy, and communication skills.
• Documents Student Learning: Guides students in discovery and understanding, fostering the development of reflective thinking and problem-solving skills. Tracks each student’s understanding of grade level standards and key skills using a variety of methods, including formative and summative assessments, projects, papers, collaborative work, classwork, presentations, class discussions, one-on-one conferences, and self-reflection.  Submits quarterly grades and narrative comments.
• Participates in Non-Classroom Activities: Engages in school activities, including parent/student conferences, retreats, faculty meetings, field trips, special activities, performances, and admissions and enrollment events (some of which may occur on weekends).
• Ensures Student Safety and Well-Being: Supervises students effectively to maintain a safe, healthy, and positive environment in accordance with school policies and expectations. Aids in supervision outside the classroom.
• Manages Classroom Expectations and Collaborates on Student Support: Works with the Program Director and School Counselor to address student concerns and implement support plans as needed. Participates in the school’s restorative practices program.
• Communicates with Families: Maintains open communication with families, providing regular updates on student progress and learning experiences.
• Reflects on Teaching and Maintains Professional Development Goals: Participates in an annual observation cycle based on classroom action research based on personal research interests and school-wide goals. Attends related internal and/or external professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience
Education: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in teaching or related field is required. Master’s degree or higher preferred.
Experience: Must possess a minimum of three years of related teaching experience in a middle school setting.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to complete a background check.

SPECIFIC TO TEACHING HUMANITIES

• Social Studies Subject Matter: Strong knowledge of history, geography, civics, government, economics, and other social studies disciplines.
• Language Arts Subject Matter: Strong knowledge of writing mechanics, structure, genre, and devices.
  Sensitive to the needs of a diverse range of students working toward independent literacy goals.
• Facilitates target language use through authentic texts, interpersonal tasks, and effective feedback.
• Develops cross-culturally competent and empathetic global citizens who are empowered to communicate interpretively, interpersonally, and presentationally.
• Designs a curriculum that includes diverse perspectives, especially voices that are underrepresented in our society. Uses authentic resources from a wide range of people.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Willingness to participate fully in a dynamic day school environment in Richmond, Virginia.
• Demonstrates professionalism and serves as a role model by modeling honesty, accountability, understanding, tolerance, respect, love, and kindness for students.
• Develops and maintains professional, collaborative, and collegial relationships with faculty, staff, and community partners for the benefit of students and classes.
• Demonstrates professionalism, engagement, and kindness toward all children and families, regardless of race, religion, nationality, abilities, familial status, gender identity, or gender expression.
• Exhibits excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Establishes effective communication and relationships with students and parents.
• Displays curiosity, a positive attitude, flexibility, and a good sense of humor.
• Demonstrates creativity and flexibility in teaching practices, with a growth mindset toward professional goals and development.
• Guides students in discovery and understanding, fostering the development of reflective thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Exhibits excellent time management skills, completing reports and tasks in a timely and professional manner.
• Multi Tasks effectively, remains calm under pressure, and treats everyone with respect.
• Remains responsible for the supervision of students during classes and at all times while on or off campus.
• Learns new technology and systems as required by the program level.
• Adheres to all policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook and Community Guide.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, and move around for extended periods of time during supervision and activities both indoors and outdoors..
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs (e.g., lifting children, materials, or equipment).
• Ability to kneel, crouch, and bend down to the child’s level for supervision, assistance, and engagement in activities.
• Ability to assist children with physical needs, such as helping with mobility, eating, or restroom routines.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies, which may include running, lifting, or assisting children to safety.
• Ability to supervise children during physical activities, such outdoor play, while remaining alert to potential safety hazards.

TO APPLY

Interested candidates should click the link below to submit the following materials.

• Be sure to list the position in the “position applying for” field.
• Letter of interest
• Resume
• Contact information for three professional references