Peoria Academy is seeking a Lower School Teacher to join our dedicated and collaborative team. This full-time teaching role focuses on supporting the social, emotional, and academic development of our youngest learners through inquiry-based, play-centered learning. The ideal candidate will foster a nurturing and engaging environment, inspire curiosity and independence, and support the developmental needs of children in the early years.

Peoria Academy is an independent, International Baccalaureate World School serving approximately 155 students in Pre-K through 8th grade. We implement the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in Pre-K through 5th grade and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in grades 6–8. The Lower School Teacher will be a vital member of our faculty, delivering developmentally appropriate, inquiry-driven instruction aligned with the philosophy and framework of the PYP.

The Lower School Teacher works closely with other faculty to design meaningful learning experiences, maintain a safe and joyful classroom, and cultivate strong relationships with students and families. In addition to teaching responsibilities, all faculty members are expected to participate in the life of the school, demonstrate a growth mindset, collaborate professionally, and serve as positive ambassadors for Peoria Academy.

This position is an exciting opportunity for a mission-driven, reflective educator who is passionate about elementary education and eager to contribute to the strategic growth and educational vision of Peoria Academy.

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with the IB PYP framework and Peoria Academy curriculum.
• Create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages student agency, inquiry, collaboration, and risk-taking.
• Foster students’ academic, social, and emotional growth by understanding and addressing individual learning styles and needs.
• Collaborate with fellow faculty to design interdisciplinary units and cohesive learning experiences.
• Maintain ongoing communication with families to support student learning and build strong school-home partnerships.
• Contribute to school life by participating in events, committees, and activities that enrich the Peoria Academy community.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional growth and a passion for lifelong learning.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree required; degree in education or related field preferred
• Experience working with elementary-aged  students
• 2+ years of experience as a classroom teacher; strong candidates with less experience may be considered.  
• Must be legally able to work in the United States;
• Completion of the state-required fingerprinting and criminal background check is required;
• Knowledge of child development;

• Collaborative, mission-driven, and eager to engage positively with the wider Peoria Academy community
• A strong personal drive for excellence and dedication to life-long learning.

COMPENSATION

• Salary of $40,000-$50,000 depending on qualifications and experience
• Peoria Academy offers a competitive suite of benefits including health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as paid time off and support for professional development and education.

TO APPLY:   Please email a cover letter addressing your qualifications for the position, a resume, and a list of three professional references to: Marissa Draney, Principal, mdraney@peoriaacademy.org.

About Peoria Academy

Peoria Academy is a diverse community of students, parents, and educators working together to provide a rigorous educational experience. Using progressive techniques that nurture the whole child, our independent school fosters intrinsic motivation, resilience, and creativity.

Connections working at Peoria Academy