Elementary School Teacher

Overview

Brightworks seeks Collaborators to co-create project-based curricula with cohorts of 10–14 students. You will design accountability structures for independent study, document explorations via weekly parent communications, and facilitate student-led portfolio assessments. We require professional educators committed to mutual aid, anti-racist and gender-inclusive pedagogy, and the deep work of equity and belonging.

Description

Seeking World-Class Educators (Collaborator)

Brightworks is not a traditional school, and our teachers aren't traditional instructors. We call them Collaborators. We are looking for visionary educators to co-create a project-based, inquiry-driven curriculum for the upcoming school year.

At Brightworks, you’ll lead a small cohort (10–14 students), balancing the creative freedom of a designer with the rigorous project management of a professional mentor.

The Role

As a Collaborator, you are the architect of the student experience. Your responsibilities include:

Curriculum Co-Creation: Designing interdisciplinary, real-world projects based on student interests.

Accountability & Mentorship: Setting high standards for independent study and pacing complex projects.

Narrative Assessment: Documenting the learning journey through weekly parent communications and student-led portfolios.

Equity in Action: Engaging in deep power and privilege work to maintain an anti-racist, gender-inclusive, and radically welcoming environment.

Who You Are

• Experienced Educator: You have a background in progressive, inquiry-based education and a deep respect for student agency.
• Professional Communicator: You bridge the gap between "candid" and "kind," writing compelling narratives of student growth.
• Project Manager: You have a strong work ethic and the ability to help students navigate ambiguity to reach concrete goals.
• Social Justice Advocate: You actively leverage conversations about identity to build equitable spaces.
• Lifelong Learner: You possess high EQ, a growth mindset, and a spirit of mutual aid.
• Reflective & Adaptive: You possess a high degree of self-awareness, regularly seeking feedback and pivoting your approach as student needs or project directions evolve.

Employment Requirements

Required

Experience: 2-3 years working with school-aged children

Compliance: Ability to pass background screening and compliance training, CPR/First Aid certification, and pass TB testing

Tech Literacy - Proficient in Google Suite

Physical Demands - Ability to lift 45 lbs and navigate the city on foot or via public transportation for off-site learning

Preferred

A background working with diverse learning styles

Benefits

Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, life/disability insurance, and a 4% immediate-vesting retirement match.

How to Apply

Please submit the following as PDF documents.

Cover Letter: Tell us where you learned about the open position, your journey, why Brightworks, and a recent project that excited you.

Resume: Focused on relevant educational and professional experience.

Writing Samples: 2–3 professional communication samples with dates (e.g., newsletters or family correspondence).

Note: Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. Brightworks is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and merit-based hiring.