The Lead Teacher of the Am Shalom Congregation's Jewish Heritage School is responsible for implementing the educational leadership and administrative management of the school community. Reporting to the Rabbi/Head of School and the Board of Directors, the Lead Teacher ensures the delivery of a high-quality Hebrew and Judaic studies program that fosters a deep connection to Jewish identity, values, and tradition for students and their families. School takes place on Saturdays from 10:00am to 12:30pm Sept through mid June.
Key Responsibilities
1. Staff Management and Leadership
● Recruitment and Hiring: In partnership with the Head of School, identify potential teaching candidates who align with the values and pedagogical goals of Am Shalom.
● Supervision and Support: Provide ongoing mentorship and professional development for teaching staff; conduct regular classroom observations and performance reviews.
● Team Building: Lead regular staff meetings to ensure curriculum alignment, share best practices, and maintain a collaborative, supportive teaching environment.
● Scheduling: Manage teacher assignments, substitute coverage, and the annual school calendar.
2. Curriculum Development and Implementation
(in partnership with Am Shalom’s Rabbi /Head of School)
● Hebrew Language Program: Oversee the implementation of a Hebrew reading and comprehension curriculum (e.g., Mitkadem or similar) tailored to various age groups and skill levels
● Reform Judaic Studies: Oversee and maintain the implementation of a comprehensive Reform Judaic studies curriculum covering Torah, Jewish history, holidays, ethics (Middot), and Israel.
● Educational Standards: Ensure that all lessons are developmentally appropriate, engaging, and consistent with the inclusive and egalitarian values of the congregation.
● Resource Management: Select and procure textbooks, digital tools, and classroom materials to enhance the learning experience.
3. Communication and Community Engagement
● Parent Relations: Serve as the primary point of contact for parents; provide regular updates on school news, student progress, and upcoming events.
● Conflict Resolution: Address parental concerns or student behavioral issues with empathy, discretion, and a solution-oriented approach.
● Synagogue Integration: Work closely with the Rabbi to integrate school programming with congregational life, including family services, holiday celebrations, and B’nai Mitzvah preparation.
● Ensure Integration of Diverse Learning Needs: Work in partnership with parents and teachers to make sure that all students have the learning supports they need, within reason and within the school’s budget and staffing capacities.
● Marketing and Enrollment: Promote the school to prospective families and manage the annual registration process, in partnership with Am Shalom’s administrator.
4. Administrative and Financial Oversight (in partnership w/ Am Shalom’s administrator)
● Budgeting: Assist the Board and Head of School in developing the annual school budget and ensure responsible allocation of resources.
● Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of student attendance, progress reports, and emergency contact information.
● Safety and Compliance: Ensure the school environment meets all health and safety standards and that all staff have valid background checks (Vulnerable Sector Screening).
Qualifications
● Deep knowledge of Reform Jewish traditions, Hebrew language, and Israel.
● Proven experience in educational leadership or classroom teaching.
● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
● Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, lay leadership, and diverse families.
● A degree in childhood, Jewish and/or early education is highly preferred
Pay: $25.00-$50.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
