Lower School Teacher (Grades 1-4)

Wichita Collegiate School (WCS), a thriving independent school located in Wichita, KS, is adding a Lower School Teacher to our Lower School. Our teachers are responsible for setting high expectations for their students while providing a supportive, nuturing and collaborative learning environment. Our teachers have a forward-thinking approach to education and a willingness to experiment in the classroom in ways that challenge educational norms.

Wichita Collegiate School is a coeducational, college preparatory, independent day school for students in Early Childhood (2-year-olds) through Grade 12. Located in East Wichita on a 42-acre campus, Wichita Collegiate is home to just over 900 students in four divisions: Early Childhood, Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School.

Founded in 1963, Wichita Collegiate School has shaped our students into inquisitive thinkers and compassionate citizens prepared to positively impact the world. In keeping with our current and historic mission, Collegiate provides our students with a challenging and supportive academic environment alongside robust opportunities in the arts and athletics.

Wichita Collegiate School is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS), is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), and is a member of Independent School Management (ISM).

Position Description

The Lower School at WCS is a place that values the whole child and supports the unique needs that students bring with them as they enhance our school community. It is expected that Faculty place students at the center of all teaching and learning in their learning spaces to ensure the best possible educational experience and achievement for all students. Faculty at WCS value differences and are expected to foster opportunities for conversation, acceptance, and celebration of diverse cultures, belief systems, and backgrounds. These approaches aim to create an inclusive community of learners who provide the necessary support for all to experience and celebrate diversity together.

The primary responsibilities of a Collegiate Educator include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Build strong partnerships with families and communicates regularly about student learning and classroom events, including conducting conferences.
• Attend and participate in learning support meetings, faculty, team, and departmental meetings.
• Leverage various data sources to drive differentiated instruction, plan for support, design tutorials, and set student goals. This includes assessing and reporting on student learning, including formative and benchmark assessments, report cards, and parent conferences.
• Support team and division-specific student activities with your time and talents. This includes, but is not limited to, weekly after-school activities, field trips, and grade-specific projects.
• Additional responsibilities that enhance the student experience as assigned.
• Attend and participate in scheduled professional development coursework, both led by the school and outside opportunities as identified.
• Classroom instruction and all the necessary preparation for effective student-centered learning.
• Identify students’ needs and work with colleagues in assessing and helping support students’ health, behavioral, and learning needs.
• Support students' social-emotional learning through morning meetings in collaboration with other team members and faculty.

Successful Collegiate Educators have a Bachelor's degree in education, elementary or early childhood education and at least three years of classroom experience. Lower School Teachers have experience teaching structured literacy and guided math curriculum. Advanced education or relevant professional experience may be substituted for the classroom experience.

Ideal candidates demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• Integrates technology as a tool for engaging students and enhancing instruction.
• High levels of accountability, expectations, and communication with all stakeholders.
• Proficient knowledge of structured literacy (phonological awareness, phonics, explicit reading and writing instruction, and small groups), guided math, and social studies.
• A passion and commitment to creating a supportive, fun, and enriching classroom culture that reflects Wichita Collegiate School’s core values and teaching philosophy.
• Willingness for experiential/project-based learning and innovative thinking.
• Ability to differentiate instruction, assessment, and feedback to students of all abilities.
• A curiosity for professional growth, development, and leadership opportunities.
• Ability to use various teaching methods, including individual and small group instruction, to meet the needs of students with varying abilities, attitudes, and backgrounds.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion work.
• Understand the importance of detailed and rigorous feedback to students and parents/guardians.
• A commitment to equitable and culturally responsive teaching practices.
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members.

Work Environment: Lower School teachers are all over campus and will need to be able to navigate campus grounds while maintaining order over students. Teachers will be asked to lift up to 15 pounds on occasion. Teachers are expected to work at the students' level as needed, this may include sitting on the floor, bending, or squatting.

All Collegiate Educators are expected to be on campus from August 1 through May 31. During the school year, school hours of operation are 7:30 from 4:30 pm; the classroom schedule varies by department. Faculty members are expected to participate in school activities to foster our sense of community; this may include time outside school hours.

About Wichita

Not only has Wichita been named an All-American City four times since 1962, it also consistently ranks among the top cities nationally for the quality of life. These accolades communicate affordability, short and easy commutes to work, and a high level of public safety for your family - attributes you simply can't find in most metro areas.

Every one of us is different, together we are Spartans.

We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local laws.