Job Description

Lower School Lead Teacher

Reports to: Head of School

Position Status: Full-Time

Location: Aurora School, Oakland, CA

Start Date: August 2025

About Aurora School

Aurora School is an independent, progressive K-8 school in Oakland, dedicated to cultivating academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and social engagement. Our nurturing, inclusive community fosters a love of learning, creativity, and leadership. We strive to develop students into self-aware, confident lifelong learners who are capable of advocating for themselves and others in both the school community and the wider world.

Job Summary

The Lower School Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a rich curriculum across core subjects, including Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science, as well as fostering students' social and emotional growth. This teacher will collaborate with specialists to ensure that every child’s unique learning needs are met. The ideal candidate is a committed educator who values diversity, equity, and inclusion and has the ability to differentiate instruction based on students' needs.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum & Instruction:

• Design and implement a curriculum aligned with school goals and standards.
• Provide a balanced instructional approach across core subjects (ELA, Math, Social Studies, Science).
• Plan, organize, and execute lessons that engage students in independent learning, collaboration, and critical thinking.
• Use a variety of instructional and classroom management techniques to support learning.
• Create and utilize assessments that drive instruction and monitor students' academic progress.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to students.
• Integrate technology and other resources to enhance learning experiences.
• Foster a positive, inclusive classroom environment that supports academic and behavioral expectations.

Classroom Management & Environment:

• Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming classroom.
• Implement classroom routines and procedures that encourage independent and collaborative learning.
• Organize and store materials effectively, ensuring a clutter-free and efficient learning environment.
• Ensure that students' social and emotional development is supported through appropriate strategies and interventions.

Family & Community Engagement:

• Communicate effectively and regularly with parents/guardians about student progress, curriculum, and classroom activities.
• Hold formal parent-teacher conferences twice a year, and additional conferences as needed.
• Foster positive relationships with students, parents, staff, and the community.
• Encourage family involvement in the educational process and provide guidance on supporting student progress.
• Write and distribute regular class newsletters (Grades K-1 weekly; Grades 2-5 bi-weekly).

Professional Development & Collaboration:

• Participate in weekly staff meetings, professional development, and school-wide activities.
• Collaborate with grade-level colleagues, specialists, and the Head of School to enhance the learning environment.
• Participate in school committees and events, such as Back-to-School Night, Admissions events, and field trips.
• Actively engage in ongoing professional growth and reflection on teaching practices.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Organize and supervise field trips that align with curriculum goals.
• Support and supervise students during recess and lunch periods, ensuring their safety and addressing any behavioral concerns.
• Plan and prepare lessons for substitutes when needed.
• Attend and support school events such as Tinker Faire, Admissions events, and other school-wide activities.
• Participate in the interview process for new staff as needed.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or teaching credential preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of teaching experience in elementary education; experience with remote and in-person teaching preferred.
• Skills:
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Expertise in progressive education practices.
• Knowledge of child development and social-emotional learning.
• Ability to differentiate instruction for diverse learners.
• Skilled in using technology to enhance teaching and learning.

Desired Traits

• Passion for fostering academic, social, and emotional growth in children.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
• Collaborative, flexible, and student-centered.
• Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with students and families.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $60,000 - $130,000, commensurate with experience and credentials.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities.

To Apply:

Please submit your cover letter and resume to Katheryn Negrosa, Human Resource Coordinator, at hr@auroraschool.org. The position begins in August 2025. No phone calls, please.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Aurora School is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to considering applicants regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by law.

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