Lower School: Grade 1 Educator

La Jolla Country Day School is seeking a warm, dynamic, and student-centered grade 1 educator to join our Lower School team for the 2026-2027 academic year. This vital role focuses on delivering engaging, developmentally responsive instruction while nurturing students’ academic growth, character development, and sense of belonging. The ideal candidate brings strong instructional practice, joy in teaching elementary learners, and a collaborative spirit that supports a vibrant school community.

Why Join La Jolla Country Day School?

La Jolla Country Day School’s Lower School program places equal importance on academic excellence and character education, laying the foundation for students’ future academic success, personal growth, and global responsibility. Student voice, faculty collaboration, and strong parent partnerships are central to building a connected and caring community. Our distinct approach develops the scholar, artist, and athlete of character through a balanced, intentional program. Students learn in a warm, spirited, and nurturing environment where curiosity, risk-taking, and growth are encouraged, and they are supported in building confidence and independence.

We are a mission-driven educational community dedicated to equity and belonging. We value educators who bring curiosity, flexibility, emotional intelligence, and a growth mindset to their work. If you are inspired by teaching children, collaborating with colleagues, and partnering with families, we would love to meet you.

What You’ll Do

• Teaching & Learning
  • Deliver high-quality instruction in core subject areas aligned with curriculum standards.
  • Design, implement, and adapt lesson plans to meet the needs of diverse learners.
  • Use a variety of instructional strategies to promote engagement, curiosity, and deep understanding.
  • Employ formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress and inform instruction.
  • Provide individualized and small-group support as needed.
• Classroom Environment & Management
  • Establish a positive, inclusive, and respectful classroom environment.
  • Set clear expectations and use proactive strategies to support student behavior and responsibility.
  • Encourage independence, collaboration, and risk-taking within a safe and supportive setting.
  • Maintain responsibility for classroom materials, libraries, and shared learning spaces.
• Student Development & Family Partnership
  • Support students’ academic, social, and emotional development.
  • Maintain accurate records of student progress and growth.
  • Communicate regularly and effectively with families through conferences, reports, and ongoing dialogue.
  • Partner with parents to support each child’s learning experience.
• Collaboration & Community Engagement
  • Collaborate closely with grade-level colleagues, specialty teachers, and administrators.
  • Participate actively in faculty, grade-level, and department meetings.
  • Contribute to curriculum development and continuous program improvement.
  • Serve as an advisor and mentor to students.
  • Participate in field trips and experiential learning opportunities.
• Professional Growth & School Involvement
  • Engage in professional development to stay current with educational best practices.
  • Reflect on teaching practice and seek feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Participate in school-wide events, committees, and community activities as appropriate.
  • Provide supervision during recess, lunch, and other out-of-classroom activities.

Who You Are

• Student-Centered & Supportive: You understand the developmental needs of elementary learners and create engaging, inclusive learning experiences.
• Collaborative Educator: You value teamwork, shared learning, and partnership with colleagues and families.
• Reflective & Growth-Oriented: You approach teaching with curiosity, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Strong Communicator: You communicate clearly, thoughtfully, and professionally with students, families, and colleagues.
• Equity-Minded Practitioner: You are committed to culturally responsive teaching and character education.
• Adaptable & Positive: You bring energy, resilience, and openness to new ideas.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Prior elementary teaching experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated understanding of instructional strategies and classroom management for grades 1–4.
• Proficiency with educational technology and digital tools; experience with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office required.
• Willingness to learn and use additional instructional platforms and tools.
• Ability to pass a Live Scan fingerprint background check and provide current tuberculosis (TB) clearance.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Full-time, on-campus position during the academic year.
• Typical Lower School schedule, with occasional evening or weekend commitments for school events, conferences, or professional responsibilities.
• Active school environment requiring regular movement throughout campus and classroom spaces.

Salary Range

$61,000 – $120,000 annualized. The salary offer to a successful candidate will depend on factors including experience, education, training, and relevant skills.

To Be Considered, Please Submit:

• Your current resume or CV
• A cover letter describing your interest, relevant experience, and educational philosophy
• A sample lesson plan