Independence was founded in 1978 by parents seeking a challenging education that would be strong in the academic areas, arts, foreign languages, and athletics. Today, the school occupies a 90-acre campus in the Pike Creek Valley (near Hockessin, Newark, and Wilmington, Cecil County, MD, and Southeastern Chester County, PA), and features state of the art facilities and outdoor classrooms. The Independence School, an independent day school welcoming children age 3 through 8th Grade, provides an exceptionally strong academic foundation and so much more. At Independence, students learn to think for themselves. They learn independence. Our school mission, beliefs, and core values guide us to ensure we offer students an unparalleled educational experience, opportunities for leadership and a welcoming community for the entire family.
Lower School Teacher - 2nd Grade Direct Supervisor: Head of Lower School FLSA: Exempt Type: Full-Time Faculty Employee
The 2nd Grade Teacher is a creative, passionate, and student-centered educator who demonstrates superior and current knowledge of elementary education and best practices. This teacher is dedicated to fostering a love of learning while developing foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth. They elicit engaging, hands-on, and meaningful learning experiences for all students.
Professional Attributes
High energy and enthusiasm with the ability to learn quickly, make an immediate impact, and implement new initiatives
Flexibility and openness to work on a variety of assignments
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, displaying the ability to connect and build relationships with employees, students, and parents
Confidence in professional aptitude with the ability to effectively convey skills and knowledge
Positive team player with a strong desire to be an active, long-term participant in the growth of the School
Supports and aligns with the School’s philosophy, mission, values, and policies
Commitment to fostering and supporting a safe and healthy atmosphere and an inclusive community
Duties and Responsibilities
Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that align with the School’s elementary curriculum and standards
Teach core subjects such as reading, writing, math, and social studies using a variety of methods, including hands-on exploration, discussion, explicit instruction, and integration of technology
Differentiate instruction to meet the academic and developmental needs of all students
Assess student progress using observations, data from online platforms, and various assessments; provide timely and constructive feedback to students and their parents/guardians
Create a positive and supportive classroom environment that promotes student engagement, independence, and collaboration
Incorporate social-emotional learning and character development into daily routines and lessons
Collaborate with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects and activities
Communicate effectively with families, providing updates on student progress and classroom activities
Attend meetings, participate in school-wide events, and pursue professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date on evidence-based practices in elementary education
Utilize the 90-acre campus as an extension of the classroom for hands-on exploration and learning opportunities.
Perform other duties as assigned
Skills, Knowledge, and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or above in elementary education or a related field
At least 2 years of experience teaching at the elementary school level, preferably in 2nd grade or a similar age group
Possesses a strong understanding of child development and learning progressions to effectively support students' academic, social, and emotional growth.
Demonstrates an understanding of research-based instructional practices, including the Science of Reading, to support literacy development and student achievement.
Excellent classroom management skills that promote a positive learning environment
Strong organizational and planning skills with attention to detail
Aptitude to learn new systems, software, and platforms, including student information systems
Comfortable in a Windows environment and with Google Workspace/MS Office.
High level of confidentiality and discretion
The 2nd Grade Teacher is a 10-month position and follows the academic calendar.
The Independence School prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 2-5-2025