Upper School Writing & Publications Teacher

Miami Country Day School seeks an enthusiastic, creative, and highly organized educator to serve as its Upper School Writing and Publications Teacher, beginning in August 2026. This position is primarily responsible for leading the development, production, and publication of the school’s yearbook while cultivating student skills in writing, journalism, visual storytelling, design, and media production. The successful candidate will also teach Upper School English courses as assigned and contribute actively to the intellectual and creative life of the School.

JOB SUMMARY

The Upper School Writing and Publications Teacher serves as the faculty leader of the MCDS Yearbook program and oversees all aspects of yearbook production, publication, and student staff development. The position is responsible for fostering a dynamic student publications program that develops skills in writing, editing, reporting, photography, design, project management, and digital storytelling.

In addition to leading the Yearbook course, the teacher will teach 2-3 Upper School English/Language Arts courses as assigned based on departmental needs. The position also includes serving as an advisor to a group of Upper School students and actively contributing to the Humanities Department and the broader school community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND TASKS

YEARBOOK & PUBLICATIONS LEADERSHIP

• Teach and oversee the MCDS Yearbook course, guiding students through all aspects of yearbook production, including writing, editing, photography, design, project management, and publication.
• Develop and maintain a production schedule that ensures the timely completion of a high-quality annual publication.
• Mentor and supervise student editors and staff members, fostering leadership, collaboration, accountability, and ethical journalistic practices.
• Coordinate with students, faculty, staff, families, and external vendors to gather content and support the successful production and distribution of the yearbook.
• Manage yearbook budgets, purchasing, and vendor relationships as assigned.
• Promote student engagement in documenting and celebrating school life through writing, visual storytelling, and other student publications initiatives.
• Design and deliver engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences aligned with departmental curriculum and the Understanding by Design (UbD) framework.
• Establish clear learning goals, assess student progress, and provide timely feedback to students and families.
• Foster an inclusive classroom environment that supports students with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and learning needs.
• Integrate technology and instructional best practices to enhance student learning and engagement.
• Maintain effective classroom management and promote a positive learning environment.
• Collaborate with colleagues, communicate effectively with families, and participate actively in departmental, divisional, and school-wide initiatives.
• Engage in ongoing professional growth and contribute positively to the MCDS community.
• Perform supervisory and other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Three to five years of teaching experience, preferably at the secondary level.
• Experience teaching English/Language Arts.
• Experience advising student publications, journalism, media, or yearbook programs preferred.
• Experience supporting students with diverse learning profiles, including executive functioning challenges, ADHD, and mild learning differences.
• Experience in an independent school setting preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to professional growth, collaboration, and student-centered learning.