What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lower School Faculty position at Albany Academy?
Lower School Classroom Teacher
Albany Academy is an independent, coeducational Pre-K through Grade 12 school in Albany, New York, with a learning environment designed to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and strong character in each student.
At the heart of our school is a passionate and highly skilled faculty, deeply committed to the academic, social, and emotional development of every student. Our educators go beyond classroom instruction—they serve as mentors, role models, and advocates who support the growth of the whole child. Through small class sizes and individualized attention, they challenge students with a rigorous, engaging curriculum while nurturing confidence, creativity, and resilience.
Albany Academy’s dynamic community values and celebrates diverse perspectives and life experiences, enriching the learning environment for all. Aligned with our Mission and Core Values, we are steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and academically excellent school culture—one where students are inspired to lead lives of purpose, responsibility, respect, compassion, empathy, and integrity.
Position Summary
Lower School Classroom Teachers are dynamic and reflective educators, responsible for creating a joyful, engaging, and academically rigorous classroom environments for students in the elementary grades. Our classroom teachers prioritize excellence in literacy and mathematics instruction while nurturing the whole child and cultivating a strong, inclusive classroom community. Our classroom teachers understand child development, embrace a growth mindset, and are committed to fostering curiosity, character, and a lifelong love of learning.
Essential Duties:
Literacy Instruction
- Design and deliver a comprehensive literacy program including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
- Implement evidence-based practices in phonics, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and writing instruction.
- Differentiate literacy instruction to meet diverse learners’ needs.
- Use formative and summative assessments to guide instruction and provide meaningful feedback.
- Foster a classroom culture that celebrates reading and authentic writing experiences.
Mathematics Instruction
- Provide conceptual, hands-on math instruction that builds strong number sense and problem-solving skills.
- Facilitate mathematical discourse that encourages reasoning, collaboration, and multiple solution strategies.
- Differentiate instruction to ensure access and challenge for all learners.
- Integrate real-world applications to make math meaningful and relevant.
Whole Child Development
- Support students’ social, emotional, and academic growth.
- Embed social-emotional learning practices into daily routines.
- Create structures that promote executive functioning skills, independence, and self-advocacy.
- Recognize and respond to the developmental needs of elementary-age children.
- Partner with families to support each child’s individual growth.
Building Community
- Cultivate a safe, inclusive, and respectful classroom environment.
- Establish clear expectations and restorative practices that promote belonging and accountability.
- Collaborate closely with grade-level colleagues and specialist teachers.
- Participate actively in school-wide events, meetings, and community initiatives.
- Contribute to a positive and engaged independent school culture.
Qualifications:
- Three (3) years teaching at the lower school level (required)
- Teaching in an independent school (preferred)
- Bachelor’s degree in education or related field
- Master’s degree (preferred)
- NYS Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6 or literacy (preferred)
Schedule
- 10-month position with summers off
- The typical workday is 7:45am – 4:15pm, with occasional assignments to special events taking place after the core hours and on weekends
Working Environment & Physical Requirements
- Generally, the role is conducted in a classroom environment
- Most of the work is done sitting or standing
- Routinely move about inside the building and from building to building
- Frequent interaction with others speaking, listening, and typing
- Ability to operate office equipment including computers, printers, copiers, and the like
Disclaimer
- The employee must be capable of fully performing all duties described herein, either without or with reasonable accommodation
- Albany Academy reserves the right to alter this job description
- Employment with Albany Academy is at-will
Salary : $45,000 - $60,000