What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Studies Teacher position at Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES?
Social Studies Teacher
Adirondack Academy - HFM BOCES
Johnstown, New York
Inspire Students to Understand the Past, Engage with the Present, and Shape the Future
Adirondack Academy, an alternative education program within HFM BOCES, is seeking a passionate and dedicated Social Studies Teacher to join our team. We are looking for an educator who believes in the power of education to help students become informed, engaged citizens while building the confidence and skills needed for lifelong success.
This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students who benefit from individualized support, engaging instruction, and strong relationships with caring adults. The ideal candidate will bring fresh, innovative ideas to the classroom and thrive in a challenging yet highly rewarding educational environment.
Responsibilities:
- Plan and deliver engaging Social Studies instruction aligned with New York State Learning Standards.
- Develop creative lessons that encourage critical thinking, civic engagement, historical inquiry, and real-world connections.
- Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students.
- Foster a positive classroom environment built on respect, consistency, and relationship-building.
- Encourage meaningful discussion and collaboration while helping students develop communication and analytical skills.
- Monitor student progress and use data to inform instructional decisions.
- Collaborate with colleagues, support staff, administrators, and families to support student achievement.
- Maintain accurate records and fulfill all professional responsibilities required of classroom teachers.
Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will:
- Bring fresh, engaging, and innovative ideas to Social Studies instruction.
- Demonstrate patience, empathy, and resilience when working with students facing academic and personal challenges.
- Understand the importance of trauma-informed practices and relationship-centered teaching.
- Build positive relationships that encourage student engagement, confidence, and growth.
- Be adaptable and willing to think creatively to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Value teamwork, consistency, and a student-centered approach to education.
- Believe in the potential of every student and be committed to helping them achieve success.
Why Adirondack Academy?
At Adirondack Academy, we believe that meaningful learning begins with meaningful relationships. Our educators work together to create a supportive, structured, and student-centered environment where young people can overcome obstacles, develop confidence, and prepare for successful futures. Every member of our team has the opportunity to make a lasting impact by helping students discover their strengths and achieve their goals.
If you are passionate about Social Studies, relationship-building, and making a difference in the lives of young people, we encourage you to apply.
- Salary commensurate with experience.
Job Qualifications
Qualifications
- Valid New York State Certification in Social Studies 7-12 (or eligibility for certification).
- Strong instructional and classroom management skills.
- Understanding of ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and trauma-informed educational practices.
- Ability to be patient, dynamic, flexible, and responsive to student needs.
- Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
- Commitment to supporting students in an alternative education setting.
TEACH Clearance
Per Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, to be employed in a position designated by a school district or BOCES as involving direct contact with students, a clearance for employment from the State Education Department is required. Formal job offer/selection is contingent on candidate's ability to obtain a fingerprint security clearance through the TEACH system prior to working. For more information: http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tsei/ospra/.
Equal Opportunity / Non-Discrimination
HFM BOCES is committed to equal opportunity in educational programs, admissions and employment. HFM BOCES does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious practice, national origin, ethnic group, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age, marital status, military status, veteran status, disability, weight or any other basis prohibited by New York state and/or federal non-discrimination laws in its programs and activities, including admissions and employment, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding the BOCES non-discrimination policies should be directed to Dr. Aaron Bochniak (abochniak@hfmboces.org), Assistant Superintendent for BOCES Operations and Component District Services, (518) 736-4305, HFM BOCES, 2755 State Highway 67, Johnstown, NY 12095. Inquiries may also be addressed to the Office for Civil Rights at the US Department of Education, 32 Old Slip, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10005, 646-428-3800, OCR.NewYork@ed.gov. (Revised 9/2020)
Position Start Date:09/01/2026
Application Deadline:12/31/2026
Job Number: HFM26/27 SS ADK
Salary : $54,000 - $99,500