Expeditionary Learning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: ELECTIVE / SPECIALS TEACHER
Classification: Full-Time, Salary Exempt
Reports To: Principal
SUMMARY:
To plan, implement, and sustain high-quality elective instruction that engages students in
creative expression, inquiry, and skill development. The Elective / Specials Teacher promotes
academic rigor, character development, and joy through a vertically aligned curriculum that
complements core content areas. This role supports AXL Academy's mission through active
student engagement, public performances, interdisciplinary collaboration, and participation in
school-wide events such as Expedition Nights and Student-Led Conferences.
Essential functions of the job may include but are not limited to the
following:
Instruction and Learning
• Design and deliver engaging elective instruction aligned with Colorado Academic
Standards and AXL's instructional model.
• Develop and implement vertically aligned units that support student growth from grade to
grade.
• Incorporate student voice, real-world connections, and project-based learning in lessons.
• Differentiate instruction to support diverse learners, including students with IEPs and
multilingual learners.
• Use relevant technology and instructional tools to enhance learning and creative
expression.
Assessment and Feedback
• Establish clear learning targets and success criteria for each lesson and unit.
• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor progress and inform instruction.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to students.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance and communicate progress to families
as needed.
Culture and Community
• Create a safe, inclusive, and collaborative classroom environment that supports student
risk-taking and expression.
• Maintain consistent classroom routines and expectations aligned with AXL's restorative
culture and behavior systems.
• Supervise and support student conduct during class transitions, lunch/recess, and
school events.
• Build strong relationships with students and families that support academic and artistic
growth.
Performances, Exhibitions, and Events
• Plan and facilitate student performances, showcases, or exhibitions of learning at least
once per year.
• Contribute to school-wide events including Expedition Nights, Student-Led Conferences,
and community celebrations.
• Collaborate with core content teachers to integrate elective skills into interdisciplinary
projects or expeditions when appropriate.
Collaboration and Professional Development
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and collaborate with
colleagues to ensure vertical alignment and skill progression.
• Contribute to shared curriculum resources and continuous improvement of elective
programming.
• Engage in coaching cycles, staff meetings, and professional development aligned with
school goals.
• Uphold FERPA and maintain ethical and confidential documentation of student data.
Upholding the Vision:
Engage
• Design meaningful experiences that ignite student creativity, collaboration, and
reflection.
• Participate fully in school events and community-building initiatives.
Empower
• Foster student ownership, choice, and identity through diverse learning opportunities.
• Create a classroom culture that values student voice and growth.
Achieve
• Support measurable growth in student performance, engagement, and artistic or
physical development.
• Contribute to a vertically coherent and rigorous electives program that complements core
instruction.
Qualification Requirements:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in education, fine arts, physical education, or related field
• Valid Colorado teaching license or eligibility in an appropriate subject area
• Experience planning and delivering instruction in an elective or specials content
• Strong classroom management skills and commitment to equity
• CLDE certification (required for all teachers hired in 2021-22 or later)
Preferred:
• Experience in project-based, inquiry-based, or Expeditionary Learning settings
• Background in performance, design, visual arts, PE, music, or other enrichment
disciplines
• Familiarity with interdisciplinary planning and vertical curriculum design
• Bilingual or multilingual proficiency
Physical Requirements:
Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, operate a computer, instructional tools, and
other classroom equipment; reach with hands and arms; and occasionally lift and/or move up to
50 pounds. This position may include supervision of outdoor activities and performances.