Grade 4/5 Social Studies and Science Teacher

The Campus Laboratory School of Carlow University is seeking a Grade 4/5 Social Studies and Science Teacher who is passionate about inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary instruction.

This teacher will be responsible for planning, delivering, and assessing high-quality instruction in social studies and science for students in grades 4 and 5, supporting the development of critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and interdisciplinary understanding aligned with Pennsylvania Academic Standards and the mission of the school.

The ideal candidate will create an engaging, student-centered learning environment that fosters curiosity, collaboration, and academic growth. This role requires strong content knowledge in both subject areas, the ability to differentiate instruction for diverse learners, and a commitment to integrating literacy and hands-on, experiential learning opportunities across the curriculum.

Essential Functions

• Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned instruction in social studies and science for Grades 4–5
• Design lessons that promote inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Assess student learning using formative and summative assessments and use data to inform instruction
• Differentiate instruction to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of diverse learners
• Integrate literacy skills (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) into content-area instruction
• Create a positive, inclusive classroom environment that supports student engagement and achievement
• Utilize hands-on experiments, projects, primary sources, and real-world applications to enhance learning
• Collaborate with grade-level colleagues, interventionists, and administration to support student success
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, academic performance, and classroom updates
• Maintain accurate records of student performance, attendance, and assessments
• Implement classroom management strategies that promote respect, responsibility, and active learning
• Participate in professional development, faculty meetings, and school-wide initiatives
• Support the mission, values, and educational philosophy of The Campus Laboratory School of Carlow University

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in school events, family engagement nights, and student showcases
• Attend faculty meetings, professional development sessions, and collaborative planning meetings
• Support school-wide initiatives, committees, and accreditation-related activities (e.g., PAIS self-study)
• Supervise students during non-instructional times such as arrival, dismissal, recess, and field trips
• Assist with curriculum development and instructional resource review as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operation of the school

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Education, Elementary Education, or a related field from an accredited college or university required. Master's degree preferred.

Experience: Prior classroom teaching experience at the elementary or middle school level preferred (Grades 3–6 experience strongly preferred). Experience with standards-based instruction, differentiated learning, and inquiry-based or hands-on instructional approaches is highly desirable.

Licenses/Certifications: Valid Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Instructional I or Instructional II certificate in Elementary Education or appropriate middle-level certification with endorsement in social studies and/or science, preferred or required based on assignment.

Clearances: Clearances required per PDE and school policy: FBI fingerprint clearance, PA Child Abuse History clearance, and PA State Police clearance.

Carlow University is Devoted to....

• A culture of integrity, dignity and respect for all
• A strong commitment to social justice
• Ethical forward-thinking leadership
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life & disability benefits package
• Tuition benefits for undergraduate and graduate programs
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Program
• Complimentary use of Carlow’s fitness center and amenities

Carlow University is a comprehensive Catholic University situated in a culturally rich and diverse urban setting of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1929 by the Sisters of Mercy, an international community of Roman Catholic women with a mission to serve the poor, the sick, and the uneducated.

Carlow is an institution grounded in the liberal arts while also offering strong professional programs, committed to engaging its community in a process of life-long learning, scholarship, research, and service. Degrees are offered at the baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral levels.

Carlow University aims to provide transformational educational opportunities rooted in social justice for a community of learners, and to empower them to excel in their chosen work as compassionate, responsible leaders in the creation of a just and merciful world.

Carlow University employees commit themselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct. They commit to act with integrity, treat others with respect and dignity, carefully steward the University's resources, avoid conflicts of interest or commitment, maintain confidentiality, and to comply with legal and professional obligations.