Capstone Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Uncommon High School AP Capstone teachers are passionate about research and building an engaging, rigorous classroom culture focusing on helping all students gain the skills they need for college. Our teachers become experts in their course content, and have a keen sense of how to motivate and inspire high school students. At the heart of our AP Capstone classes is an emphasis on skill-building, communication and collaboration. Teachers facilitate student-directed research projects, building confidence in students to take on increasingly complex projects. At the conclusion of the AP Capstone program at Uncommon students will have planned, conducted, and presented their own research leaving them more prepared for the academic rigor and independence of college coursework.  

Responsibilities

1.     Instruction

• You'll teach from a robust curriculum shared across our high schools that prioritizes topical issues, teaches students how to collaborate with others, and engages students in the research process.  
• You'll facilitate student-led research projects in AP Capstone courses by consistently reviewing student progress and using questions to steer projects in an appropriate direction. 
• You'll develop students' independent and collaborative reading, writing, and discussion skills through several long term individual and group assignments.
• You'll prepare for and conduct one-on-one and small group conferences, teaching students how to critique and revise their own work. 
• You'll stay current on student progress and comprehension, regularly writing and adapting lessons to maximize student learning. 
• You'll partner with your department and your grade level team on content and instructional strategies that support your students and help all students succeed. 
• You'll attend a week long summer training required and led by the College Board for the AP Capstone courses you teach.

     2.     Data Analysis

• You'll meet weekly with your principal and/or instructional coach to analyze and respond to trends in student work samples and assessments.
• You'll learn and implement strategies to differentiate instruction for all learners in your classroom.

3.     School Culture

• You'll build positive relationships with students to ensure they feel seen, loved, and heard.
• You'll partner with students' families to ensure appropriate resources are available to support their child's learning needs.
• You'll engage in practice-based professional development, mentorship, and coaching sessions.
• You'll participate in weekly, school-wide meetings to cultivate community, model our core values, and encourage student achievement.
• You'll partner with your grade level team to develop academic goals and practice instructional strategies.

Strong applicants for all teaching roles (new and experienced) will possess the following:

• Relentless drive to improve the minds, characters & lives of students both in and out of school
• Unwavering commitment to urban youth achieving greatness
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon's core beliefs and educational philosophy is a must
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for relevant academic subjects
• Evidence of self-motivation, willingness to be a team player, and a strong sense of personal responsibility
• Ability and desire to implement feedback from school leaders and colleagues to become a more effective educator in service to our students. 
• A background in education is not required for new teachers, but strong candidates should show a demonstrated passion for working with K-12 students and prior experience working in schools and/or urban communities is preferred.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must have received a Bachelor's degree from a college or university before employment begins
• Candidates must have also earned a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.75 or higher by the time employment begins

Additional qualifications for experienced teachers:

• Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom
• Minimum of two years teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred
• Valid State Certification and Master's degree are helpful but not required

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $71,000 to $116,000. 

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full-time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full-time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $77,000. 

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer). 
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development  
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • Pension through Mass. Teachers Retirement System  
  • 403(b) retirement savings program 
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE.

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits 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 characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [email protected].