Lower School Lead Teacher

August 2025

Purpose: To lead a self-contained classroom and work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure that the fundamental skills of reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies are presented in a thoughtful sequence and practiced in engaging contexts in alignment with the school’s mission. 

Responsibilities

• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of various learning styles and needs of students at appropriately challenging levels
• Create classroom community using Responsive Classroom and social-emotional learning strategies
• Maintain a safe learning environment for students in your care following all safety precautions and instructions 
• Coordinate with the Student Support Team to meet the needs of students who require extra support 
• Collaborate and cooperate with other teachers at the assigned grade level for planning purposes 
• Communicate with parents through email, phone calls, progress reports, and conferences in a professional, positive, and timely manner
• Participate in grade-level, division, committee, and all-school meetings 
• Participate in professional growth opportunities, set goals for improvement, and engage in teaching that is innovative and dynamic 
• Build rapport with students and parents that is positive and caring
• Support the mission of University School of Nashville
• Perform other duties as determined by the Head of Lower School and the Director

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum of three years of experience as a lead teacher preferred
• Experience with a diverse school community
• Knowledge of Responsive Classroom preferred
• Knowledge of Structured Literacy instruction
• Experience with Bridges Math preferred (not required)

Skills and Abilities

• Provide instruction in literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies based on implemented curriculum
• Work well with others, think creatively and flexibly, and incorporate best practices into a growth-oriented teaching style
• Work collaboratively with all faculty and staff members
• Differentiate curriculum to meet a range of learning profiles, so each child has the opportunity to do work that is appropriately challenging
• Embrace a growth mindset with regard to pedagogy
• Communicate thoroughly, accurately, and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Maintain a positive and professional demeanor
• Demonstrate integrity and confidentiality

Physical Requirements

• Maintain an active presence in the classroom, moving about to work with students individually and in small groups.
• Accompany students and provide active supervision during their daily activities. This includes moving to and from speciality classes, Journey and Forest Days, lunch, and daily recess, among other locations both on and off  campus. 
• Be able to respond and ensure a safe environment for students in your care in the event of an accident, safety drill, lock down, or any other emergency.