5th-6th Grade Judaic Studies Teacher and 6th Grade T'fillah Leader

Position Overview

Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago seeks a dedicated educator for the 2026-2027 academic year to teach 5th and 6th grade Judaic Studies and lead 6th grade T'fillah. The candidate should demonstrate a passion for teaching T’fillah, Tanakh, Talmud, and Mishna, serve as a positive role model of engaged Jewish living, and uphold rigorous reflective teaching standards while collaborating and evolving professionally. The ideal teacher loves working with adolescents and strives to foster meaningful, transformative learning experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver Tanakh and rabbinics instruction to 5th and 6th grade students employing diverse instructional techniques aligned with Standards and Benchmarks that emphasize skill development and personal relevance.
• Lead and supervise 6th grade T'fillah activities.
• Develop differentiated lesson plans and materials suitable for varied learner needs.
• Promote havruta (partnered) learning skills within the Pedagogy of Partnership (PoP) framework.
• Maintain classroom environments fostering positive behavior based on Responsive Classroom/Developmental Designs principles.
• Assess and document student progress, providing timely feedback and reports.
• Engage with parents through conferences, calls, emails, and meetings to review student development.
• Participate in professional development and collaborate with colleagues on curriculum and education program enhancements.
• Supervise students beyond classroom settings during the school day.
• Contribute to curriculum development activities as requested.
• Exemplify best teaching practices outlined in the Thoughtful Classroom framework, including organization, relationship building, engagement, and reflection.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited institution.
• Possession of an Illinois teaching certificate or an equivalent credential.
• Strong knowledge of Jewish traditions, Bible, Talmud, Jewish holidays, and practices.
• Commitment to Jewish values and an enthusiastic approach to Jewish education.

Faculty Culture and Values

• Commitment to Jewish Values and Torah
• Professionalism
• Optimism
• Collaboration
• Respect
• Open Communication
• Innovation and Creativity
• Lifelong Learning

Benefits and Additional Information

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, short- and long-term disability, accident coverage, and more.
• Sick and personal leave provisions.
• 403(b) retirement plan participation.
• Opportunity to leave early on Fridays for Shabbat observance.
• Access to professional growth resources and a supportive leadership community.
• Affiliation with a dynamic, values-driven school community.

About the School

Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago offers a unique blend of General and Judaic education, nurturing critical thinkers grounded in strong Jewish values.