What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2026-2027 G1 TEACHER position at Santa Fe South Spero Lower Elementary?
1st Grade Teacher
Spero Elementary | Santa Fe South Charter Schools
Oklahoma City, OK | 190–195 Day Contract (195 days for new teachers; 190 days for returning teachers)
About Spero Elementary
Spero Elementary is one of Santa Fe South’s established, high-performing elementary campuses, known for its strong culture, high expectations, and unwavering commitment to student growth. Spero is a place where excellence is the norm, collaboration is intentional, and professional learning is taken seriously. Spero Elementary was recently ranked the #1 Charter Elementary School in Oklahoma by US News & World Report.
Teachers at Spero are supported through structured coaching, clear instructional vision, and a shared belief that all students can achieve at high levels. Many educators who thrive here grow into leadership roles, including instructional coaching and other campus and network opportunities. While the work is challenging and fast-paced, the environment is deeply mission-driven, supportive, and grounded in continuous improvement.
Position Summary
The 1st Grade Teacher at Spero Elementary is a reflective, driven educator who embraces high expectations and continuous growth- for themselves and their students. This teacher thrives in a structured, feedback-rich environment and is energized by collaboration, coaching, and the pursuit of instructional excellence. The ideal candidate is both warm and firm, combining strong relationships with intentional, data-informed instruction.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality, engaging instruction aligned to the Oklahoma Academic Standards across core subject areas, with particular focus on early literacy and numeracy
- Build strong foundational reading skills, including phonics, fluency, comprehension, and written expression, using evidence-based instructional practices
- Actively participate in Santa Fe South’s instructional coaching model by seeking, receiving, and implementing feedback to continuously strengthen practice
- Plan and internalize lessons with fidelity, including preparing materials, anticipating misconceptions, and rehearsing instructional strategies
- Collaborate closely with grade-level teammates, instructional coaches, and campus leadership to analyze student data and adjust instruction accordingly
- Use formative and summative assessments to provide targeted instruction, interventions, and enrichment
- Establish a structured, joyful, and inclusive classroom culture with clear academic and behavioral expectations
- Support students’ social-emotional growth and development through consistent routines, relationship-building, and responsive classroom practices
- Build strong, respectful relationships with students, families, and colleagues, and communicate student progress regularly with families
- Contribute to campus-wide initiatives, professional learning communities, and the continued growth of Hills Elementary
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Strong alignment with Santa Fe South’s mission and commitment to serving the southside community
Preferred:
- Experience teaching early elementary grades (K–2), particularly kindergarten
- Strong understanding of evidence-based literacy instruction and early numeracy development
- Experience working in diverse or high-need school communities
- Demonstrated openness to feedback and a growth-oriented mindset
- Oklahoma teaching certification (or willingness/eligibility to obtain) in Early Childhood Education
- Training in LETRS or other science of reading practices
Who Thrives at Spero Upper Elementary
Spero is a great fit for educators who:
- Are motivated by high expectations and clear accountability
- Value frequent feedback, coaching, and professional reflection
- Take ownership of student outcomes and believe growth is always possible
- Thrive in collaborative, mission-driven teams
- See challenge as an opportunity to sharpen their craft
Why Teach at Spero?
- A high-performing campus with a proven record of student success
- Robust instructional coaching and professional development
- Clear expectations paired with meaningful support
- A collaborative, mission-driven team that pushes one another to grow
- The chance to make a lasting impact in a school that relentlessly pursues excellence for students