Lead Teacher, ELA - Grades 7&8 (2025-26 School Year)

In accordance with the Explore! Community School mission and values, Lead Teachers are instrumental in leading students to phenomenal achievements and the creation of beautiful work, as well as being integral partners in the growth of the school. We are seeking a diverse team of smart, passionate, and driven educators who believe that all students can learn at the highest level. We look for teachers who are genuinely warm and kind, thrive in an entrepreneurial culture, care about having fun at work, have a track record of high performance, and are committed to high-quality, progressive instruction.ResponsibilitiesCreate a positive, supportive classroom culture that promotes joy, self-discipline and Explore!'s core valuesPlan and implement creative, organized, and engaging lessons based on Tennessee State StandardsDesign and implement cross-curricular, project-based learning units of studyDifferentiate instruction to support all students in the learning process, including students with disabilities and English language learnersProvide interventions through Response to Intervention (RTI) and monitor accurate recordsWork in partnership with a grade level team and volunteers, providing coaching and direction to enhance student learningAttend weekly professional meetings (IEPs, grade level team, parent conferences, etc.)Maintain close relationships with families and caregivers, including phone calls and virtual/in-person conferencesSupport and collaborate with colleagues to share best practices and ensure school-wide successAnalyze assessment data and use it to inform your instructionQualificationsHighly effective communication and collaboration skills with all stakeholdersExperience in teaching elementary or middle school students, preferably incorporating Project-Based LearningDemonstrate strong classroom and time management skillsProven ability to work as a member of a team with a commitment to his/her own learningExperience designing and implementing differentiated lessons in all subject areasBachelor's degree required, Master's degree preferredHolds or is eligible to secure a valid TN State teacher certificationAdditional skills that enhance students' academic experience (e.g. multi-lingual, musician, etc.)highly soughtCompensationWe offer a competitive compensation and benefits package including healthcare, retirement, paid holidays, and generous paid time off. Compensation for actively licensed Tennessee educators is 5% above the MNPS 10-month salary schedule (201 days) for years of certified experience and degrees earned.As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

Created: 2026-04-02