High School Social Studies Teacher

Job Title: Secondary Social Studies Teacher
Wage/Hour Status: Exempt
Reports to: Principal
Dept./School: Assigned Secondary Campus
Date Revised: 3/28/2025

Primary Purpose:

Provide students in grades 6–12 with engaging and rigorous instruction in Social Studies to develop their understanding of history, geography, government, economics, culture, and civic responsibility. Promote critical thinking, historical inquiry, and global awareness aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) to prepare students for success in college, career, and community life.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Valid Texas teaching certificate for one or more of the following:
• Social Studies Grades 4–8
• Social Studies Grades 7–12
• History 7–12
• Government 7–12
• Economics 7–12
• Social Studies Composite 7–12 preferred for teaching multiple courses
• ESL Supplemental certification preferred (may be required based on campus/student needs)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of Social Studies TEKS for both middle and high school
• Ability to analyze historical documents and teach cause-effect relationships, chronology, and civic engagement
• Strong instructional planning and delivery aligned with content standards
• Proficiency in integrating primary sources, media, and technology into lessons
• Excellent classroom management, communication, and collaboration skills
• Understanding of culturally responsive and inclusive instructional practices

Experience:

• At least one year of student teaching or approved internship in secondary Social Studies preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Strategies

1. Plan and deliver engaging lessons in courses including World Cultures, Texas History, U.S. History, World History, Government, Economics, Geography, and Contemporary Issues.
2. Use a variety of instructional strategies including primary source analysis, debates, project-based learning, and simulations to deepen student understanding.
3. Promote historical inquiry, interpretation, and evidence-based argumentation.
4. Integrate digital tools and technology to support student learning and research.
5. Align instruction with TEKS, district curriculum, and state assessment standards.
6. Collaborate with department and instructional teams to support curriculum planning and vertical alignment.

Student Growth and Development

1. Assess student progress regularly through formative and summative assessments.
2. Use assessment data to guide instruction, differentiate learning, and support intervention or enrichment.
3. Encourage responsible citizenship, civic knowledge, and community engagement.
4. Foster critical thinking, research skills, and media literacy in a variety of formats.

Classroom Management and Organization

1. Create a respectful and inclusive learning environment that promotes discussion and inquiry.
2. Maintain classroom routines and behavior expectations aligned with district policies.
3. Organize and maintain instructional materials and resources.
4. Ensure students' physical and emotional safety through intentional classroom structures.

Communication

1. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding academic progress and expectations.
2. Collaborate with campus colleagues, counselors, and administrators to support student needs.
3. Participate in campus and district initiatives such as curriculum development, social studies fairs, or UIL events.
4. Maintain professionalism and confidentiality in all interactions.

Professional Growth and Development

1. Engage in continuous professional learning related to content, instructional strategies, and student development.
2. Stay informed on current events and how they connect to Social Studies instruction.
3. Maintain accurate records and reports as required by TEA and district policy.
4. Reflect on teaching practice and implement feedback for improvement and effectiveness.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Supervise assigned paraprofessionals, student aides, and volunteers as applicable

Working Conditions:

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
Maintain emotional control under stress. Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout the classroom. Moderate lifting of instructional materials. Occasional extended hours for tutoring, extracurricular activities, or school events.

Salary : $64,670 - $84,135