Upper School English Teacher
SUMMARY
Memphis University School, a school for boys in grades 6-12, seeks an Upper School English
teacher starting August 1, 2025.
MISSION STATEMENT
Memphis University School is a college-preparatory school dedicated to academic excellence,
cultivation of service and leadership, and the development of well-rounded young men of strong
moral character, consistent with the school’s Christian tradition.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Teach full-time (that is, up to four course sections or the equivalent, with no more
than three preparations).
• Teach English 9 (literature, composition, grammar, and vocabulary), English 10
(American literature and composition) – subject to change based on departmental
demand.
• Teach a challenging curriculum that is supported by but not driven by technology.
• Plan and prepare lessons and instructional strategies.
• Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, course materials, and
methods of instruction.
• Attend required meetings, keep records, and prepare and file reports as required and
directed by the school.
• Partner with department colleagues in the spirit of open-minded collaboration to create
and sustain a vertically integrated curriculum.
• Create a learning environment that is safe, positive, and caring, and that
fosters active involvement of all students.
• Collaborate within and across departments to enhance the mission of the school.
• Integrate technology meaningfully in lessons and units of study, when appropriate.
• Actively engage in the life of the school community and extracurricular programs.
• Other duties as assigned.
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
• A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree, preferably in English, and measurable mastery
of the subject area, especially literature, composition, and traditional grammar.
• A minimum of three to five years of teaching experience in middle or secondary school.
• Capability and experience teaching English to students grades 9-12.
• Experience in an all-male school environment desirable.
Additionally, the teacher should
• be approachable by students.
• hold high expectations of students.
• possess excellent judgment and analytical and problem-solving skills.
• be reasonably demanding and able to challenge students.
• be comfortable dealing with bright male students who ask challenging questions.
• be willing to teach foundational skills not often easy to teach.
• be willing to teach a variety of classes at a variety of levels.
• be committed to best practices in teaching and learning.
• possess an inspiring, innovative, and charismatic teaching style.
• possess outstanding organizational and communication skills.
• be diligent about open communication with parents.
• be willing to share best practices with the department.
• be willing to collaborate with other teachers.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
• A cover letter explaining interest in Memphis University School and why
the applicant is qualified for the position; also, please include a statement of
your personal educational philosophy.
• A current resume. .
• The names, titles, email addresses, and phone numbers of three references and a brief
description of the applicant's relationship with each person.
Please send materials to [email protected].
ABOUT MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Founded in 1893, Memphis University School (MUS) is a non-denominational collegepreparatory
day school for boys in grades 6 through 12. MUS provides an engaging curriculum,
a dedicated and supportive faculty, and a full complement of athletic, artistic, and extracurricular
activities that create an environment in which boys thrive and become well-rounded young men
of strong moral character, exceptionally prepared for college and life.
The student body, encompassing 607 boys in grades 6-12 this academic year, abides by an Honor
Code, which is administered by the student-run Honor Council. Approximately one-third of
MUS students receive financial aid, and 30% self-identify as students of color. The school is
fortunate to be well-resourced and able to offer significant financial aid. MUS is accredited by
the Southern Association of Independent Schools and holds memberships in ACCIS, NAIS,
SAIS, TAIS, ERB, NASSP, TSSAA, CASE, American Library Association, NACAC, SACAC,
and College Board.
MUS provides a student-faculty ratio of 7:1, and nearly 73% of our faculty hold a master’s
degree or Ph.D. The success of our students is a testament to an exceptional faculty: Nearly 50%
of our students typically score 30 or higher on the ACT, and 90% score 3 or higher on AP
exams.
Remarkably low attrition rates among both families and faculty reflect satisfaction with our
culture and programs.
This is an exciting time to be at MUS. We are in the fourth year of our Legacy Forward Strategic
Plan. Read more here.
ABOUT MEMPHIS
With about 1.35 million residents, the Memphis metropolitan area boasts a historic music scene,
world-famous barbecue, and a small-town feel, despite the presence of the Memphis Grizzlies
and several Fortune 500 companies – including FedEx and AutoZone, both founded by MUS
alumni. In addition to four small colleges, a medium-sized university, and the University of
Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis is home to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a
world-renowned leader in the treatment of catastrophic diseases in children. Memphis continues
to develop and expand opportunities throughout the community with investments in projects
such as a revitalized downtown, Crosstown Concourse vertical village, and the 4,500-acre
Shelby Farms Park – all of which have benefited from the leadership of MUS alumni.
Another sign of the area’s renaissance, the Ford Motor Company is developing a $5.6 billion
battery and vehicle manufacturing campus just east of Memphis. The Mid-South also supports a
vibrant arts community, a diverse restaurant scene, and a variety of unique neighborhoods. Plus,
the cost of living is very affordable – 13% lower than the national average.
Employment at Memphis University School is contingent upon successful completion of a
background check, drug-screening, and reference checks.
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO EMPLOYMENT
At Memphis University School we hire faculty and staff of any race, color, religion, sex, or
national and ethnic origin and accord them all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities
generally made available to faculty and staff at the school. We do not discriminate in hiring on
the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national and ethnic origin.
