Lower School Spanish Teacher

University School of Nashville

Lower School Spanish Teacher

August 2026

The Lower School Spanish Teacher is responsible for creating a dynamic, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes Spanish language, cultural awareness, and a lifelong appreciation for global perspectives. This educator inspires young learners to become confident communicators while also supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth.

Key Responsibilities 

Instruction & Curriculum 

• Plan and deliver engaging, student-centered Spanish instruction aligned with standards and best practices in language acquisition 
• Teach Spanish to students in grades K–4 
• Design differentiated lessons to meet the needs of diverse learners 
• Incorporate interactive methods such as songs, games, storytelling, and hands-on activities 
• Integrate cultural elements from Spanish-speaking countries into the curriculum 
• Develop and implement a curriculum that promotes communication and intercultural competency 
• Use technology in developmentally appropriate ways to enhance learning 

Classroom Environment 

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom culture 
• Encourage student participation, curiosity, and confidence 
• Implement effective classroom management strategies 
• Support students’ social and emotional development 

Collaboration & Community Engagement 

• Collaborate with Lower School faculty and world language colleagues to ensure curriculum alignment across divisions 
• Partner with colleagues to support cross-curricular connections 
• Participate in school meetings, professional development, and community events 
• Contribute to school-wide initiatives, including cultural celebrations (e.g., Hispanic Heritage Month) 
• Engage actively in the life of the school and contribute to a collaborative faculty culture 
• Provide clear, timely feedback to students and families 
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians through emails and interactions

Professional Responsibilities 

• Demonstrate professionalism and a commitment to the school’s mission and values
• Pursue ongoing professional growth and development 
• Build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues 
• Perform additional duties as assigned by school leadership 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Spanish, Education, or a related field 
• High-level language proficiency in Spanish and English 
• Experience or demonstrated ability to teach elementary-aged students 
• Strong understanding of language acquisition strategies for young learners 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
• Cultural competence and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion 

Preferred 

• Master’s degree in Spanish, Education, or related field 
• Teaching certification in elementary education and/or world languages 
• Experience with proficiency-based language instruction 
• Familiarity with educational technology and classroom integration 

Key Skills & Attributes 

• Passion for working with children and fostering a love of learning 
• Creativity and adaptability in lesson design 
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills 
• Collaborative mindset and team-oriented approach 
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth 
• Enthusiasm for working in a diverse, multicultural community

The School

University School of Nashville is an independent, non-sectarian, co-educational day school with enrollment of over 1,000 students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. In 1915, the George Peabody College for Teachers opened Peabody Demonstration School, USN’s predecessor, which earned acclaim for its curriculum and faculty. In 1974, Peabody College announced plans to close PDS, and a group of parents, alumni, students, and teachers reconstituted and re-chartered the school as University School of Nashville. 

USN’s midtown location adjacent to Vanderbilt University and its Peabody College for Teachers reminds us each day of our beginnings over 108 years ago in the demonstration school culture of innovation and educational best practices. It’s a vibrant educational community for both students and teachers in the midst of a dynamic city.

In the USN community, students expect much of each other, and faculty benefit from that high standard. We seek educators who are enthusiastic about their own learning to complement their work and we offer many opportunities for professional growth. USN is committed to creating an institutional environment that mirrors the cultural and ethnic composition of greater Nashville. USN encourages a diverse applicant pool and provides equal employment opportunities for employees and job applicants.

Please be prepared to upload the following items through USN's online application for this position:

1. Cover Letter

2. Resume