Grades Teacher at Austin Waldorf School Inc – Austin, Texas

Position Purpose:

The Grades Teacher is responsible for guiding students through grades 1-8, fostering intellectual curiosity, creativity, social responsibility, and emotional resilience using the Waldorf educational approach. The teacher will provide a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate curriculum that integrates academic subjects with artistic, practical, and movement-based learning, honoring the unique developmental stages of each child. By deepening their commitment to the Waldorf philosophy, the teacher will create a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring classroom environment, where each student can develop a lifelong love of learning and a strong sense of self.

The Grades Teacher's responsibilities:

• Prepare and teach the Waldorf curriculum for grades 1-8, including academic and artistic subjects.

• Foster strong classroom management and a positive learning environment.

• Teach based on an anthroposophical understanding of human development and its relation to the subjects taught.

• Implement hands-on, experiential learning techniques for core subjects such as literacy, mathematics, arts, and sciences.

• Continuously assess student progress and adapt teaching strategies as necessary.

• Complete required student reports and assessments.

• Hold parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress, concerns, and development.

• Respond promptly to emails and concerns from parents, maintaining open and supportive communication.

• Supervise students during breaks and other non-classroom times, ensuring their safety and well-being.

• Enforce school community handbook policies and rules to ensure a positive, respectful school environment.

• Share responsibility for ordering, organizing, and maintaining all pedagogical materials related to your subject areas.

• Actively participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and community events, contributing to the school’s mission and vision.

• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance curriculum and develop interdisciplinary projects.

• Cultivate effective professional relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.

• Engage in ongoing professional development related to Waldorf education, including mentoring, independent study, and continuing education.

• Contribute to the broader school and community life, attending meetings, assemblies, and events.

• Share responsibility for keeping the Curriculum Guide current.

• Report health and safety issues related to classroom or equipment to the administrative team.

Professional Requirements

• Certificate of Completion in Waldorf Teaching.

• Previous Waldorf class teaching experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Basic computer competencies