The Center for Excellence in Design and Innovation at LJCDS aims to inspire greatness by challenging students to identify real-world problems and design creative solutions to effect positive change for a better world. Innovation is the thread that connects technology with humans. The curriculum from kindergarten to Grade 12 focuses on learning how to use cutting-edge tools and technologies while developing an understanding of the social impacts of technology, design and business. We educate students to become creative thinkers, problem solvers and agents of change by giving them training in and access to resources in entrepreneurship, engineering, and computer science. 

This is an opportunity to help shape our Lower School Design & Innovation program. Working with the other Design & Innovation teachers in the Middle and Upper schools, along with the Director of Design & Innovation, the Lower School educator will be integral in shaping a strategic curriculum road map for maker technology, computer science and programming, and entrepreneurship within the school. In addition, they will be able to redesign and develop a curriculum in grades K-4 to utilize their expertise and passion. All of our team members work collaboratively with each other and all of the other LJCDS faculty and staff to create unique and differentiating experiences for our students.

Responsibilities

• Develop and teach hands-on, project based, developmentally appropriate and engaging curriculum for lower school students that will develop maker technology, computer science, design and innovation skills
• Help to develop a curriculum road map with other Design & Innovation faculty and the Director of Design & Innovation
• Serve as the Lower School representative of the Design & Innovation program for all community members, working with the Lower School Specialties team and all Lower School faculty to provide a consistent experience through the Lower School
• Work collaboratively with lower school teachers to potentially integrate your CS and tech curriculum into topics and curriculum being taught in the classroom
• Work collaboratively across divisions to ensure proper student preparation for success in Middle and Upper school
• Share your knowledge and expertise with the broader education community in San Diego and beyond
• Prepare for our new Design & Innovation building by helping with the capital campaign and planning our new spaces

Required Qualifications

• The willingness to approach learning new skills in flexible and creative ways
• Degree in Education, Education Technology, Computer Science, Art, or a related field
• Experience teaching K-4th graders
• Able to be a resource for and to train other lower school teachers on computers, technology and project-based learning
• A collaborative and inquisitive mindset
• Ability to make computer science, technology design, and innovation attractive to a variety of students
• Experience in teaching problem solving skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• An advanced degree in Education, Computer Science, Art or a related field
• Knowledge of the independent school environment
• Experience teaching block-based programming, different “maker”-type skills, or a willingness to learn
• Experience with Responsive Classroom or other social emotional learning programs

The ideal candidates are committed to leading and learning with dignity, with a high level of engagement in anti-racist education and culturally responsive instructional practices. They will possess or demonstrate the following: a growth mindset, emotional intelligence, self-motivation, positive energy, strong interpersonal skills, a service-oriented and team approach to work, approachability, adaptability, vulnerability, openness to new and divergent ideas, excellent oral and written communication skills, and comfort in an educational setting where children and adults are present. 

All school personnel must successfully complete a fingerprint background check through Live Scan and provide current tuberculosis clearance.

Salary range: $57,000 - $125,000 annualized. The salary offer to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and years of experience, training, practical knowledge, and education.

To be considered for this role, submit your current CV/resume with your online application, as well as a letter of interest that addresses why you think technology and computer science is important to K-4th grade students, and how you intend to make the courses you teach at La Jolla Country Day School relevant and exciting.