Big Picture Schenectady Social Studies Teacher Gr. 10/Advisor

Big Picture Schenectady, a small innovation high school and partner with the Big Picture Learning network, is seeking high-energy, insightful educators dedicated to creating rigorous and authentic learning experiences for students. Teachers at BPS are called advisors and while certified in a subject area at the high school level, you will coach students in all areas of learning. In your role as advisor you are a teacher, a project manager, an academic counselor and an emotional and social support person; you will work with a group of students to identify their interests and passions, help them find internship opportunities in those areas, and build their learning around those experiences. We seek educators who value "rigor, relevance, and relationships" in their professional practice, and who can engage families and community members as partners in the education of Big Picture Schenectady students.

The Big Picture School believes that schools must be personalized; educating every student equally, one student at a time. Each student's learning plan should grow out of his or her unique needs, interests and passions. Advisors are more than classroom teachers; they are an integral part of the environment that allows students the freedom to find themselves with the support and motivation of inspiring adults.

The advisor's job is to create a safe, trusting and collaborative learning environment that enables students to learn through school and community experiences and develop as mature, able, knowledgeable and responsible adults.

Responsibilities include:

• Plan an individualized program of instruction that is both challenging and that meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of each advisee, centered around authentic, project-based learning experiences;

• Articulate each student's progress, educationally and socially, through marking period narratives, phone calls and meetings with parents, and weekly student meetings;

• Partners with the internship coordinator to recommend and establish meaningful internships using phone calls, shadow days, information interviews, site visits, and other available means;

• Establish clear objectives for each student and employ a variety of educational techniques in pursuit of rigorous, integrated academic experiences and habits of work;

• Collaborate with a group of passionate educators in creating and nurturing a school that meets the needs of students looking for or needing a more individualized program;

• Build strong relationships within the school community and support restorative justice practices;

• Maintain patience and a sense of humor, and celebrate the successes of students and the school.

Additional responsibilities:

Minimum Qualifications

• Hold a valid New York State certification in Social Studies Grades 7-12.

• Preferred 3 years successful experience as a full-time Social Studies Teacher.

• Strong instructional leadership and team building skills.

• A belief that students should be at the center of their learning.

• College-ready expectations for all students.