SY 26-27 Criminal Justice Teacher Teacher (CTE)

The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Criminal Justice Teacher provides instruction aligned with the Virginia CTE Criminal Justice curriculum framework, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, public safety, corrections, and related fields. The teacher delivers engaging, standards-based instruction that integrates academic and technical skills, promotes workplace readiness, and supports students in obtaining industry certifications where applicable. The position emphasizes real-world application, ethical decision-making, and career exploration while fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment.

• Develop lesson plans that integrate theory, practical application, and workplace readiness skills.
• Provide instruction in areas such as law enforcement procedures, criminal law, forensic science basics, corrections, and homeland security.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, including project-based learning, simulations, and hands-on activities.
• Assess and evaluate student progress using formative and summative assessments; maintain accurate records of grades and attendance.
• Prepare students for relevant industry certifications and post-secondary opportunities.
• Maintain a safe, organized classroom and lab environment consistent with safety standards and school policies.
• Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and industry partners to enhance instructional programs and student experiences.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with local law enforcement agencies, courts, and community organizations to support work-based learning opportunities.
• Participate in professional development activities to stay current with instructional practices, curriculum updates, and industry trends.
• Support student organizations such as SkillsUSA or other CTSOs (Career and Technical Student Organizations).
• Communicate effectively with students, parents/guardians, and school staff regarding student progress and program activities.
• Adhere to all local, state, and federal policies, including those set forth by the Virginia Department of Education.

• Honesty
• Integrity
• Ethical
• Equity Minded
• Emotional Intelligence
• Cultural Competence
• Safety
• Quality

• Models Excellent Customer Service
• Thinks Strategically
• Shows Initiative
• Acts Decisively
• Communicates Effectively
• Works Collaboratively
• Resolves Conflict Proactively

• Technical Capabilities
• Computer Literacy
• Data Analysis and Management
• Fiscal Planning and Management
• Project Management
• Strategic Planning

• Eligibility for or possession of a Virginia teaching license with appropriate CTE endorsement in Criminal Justice (or ability to obtain).
• Relevant work experience in criminal justice, law enforcement, corrections, or related field (preferred or required per CTE licensure pathways).
• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Education, or a related field (preferred).
• Prior teaching or training experience (preferred).
• Industry certification(s) related to criminal justice (preferred).
• Law enforcement experience and/or a college degree in criminal justice or a closely related field (preferred).

KNOWLEDGE

• Virginia CTE Criminal Justice curriculum frameworks and instructional standards.
• Principles and practices of criminal justice systems, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
• Instructional strategies and classroom management techniques.
• Student assessment methods and data-driven instruction.
• Workplace readiness skills and career pathways in public safety fields.

SKILLS

• Effective instructional delivery and lesson planning.
• Classroom and behavior management.
• Communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations.
• Organization, time management, and recordkeeping.
• Technology integration in instruction (e.g., LMS platforms, simulation tools).

ABILITIES

• Ability to engage and motivate students with varying academic and skill levels.
• Ability to connect curriculum to real-world applications and career pathways.
• Ability to establish partnerships with business and community stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain a safe and structured learning environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a professional learning community.
• Ability to adapt instruction based on student needs and program requirements.

• None 

• None