About Great Lakes Academy
Great Lakes Academy (GLA) is a high-performing, single-site charter school located in South Chicago. Our mission is to prepare all of our students with the fundamental academic skills, critical thinking ability, and strength of character to excel in high school, college, and a career of their choice. We empower all of our students with the education today that they will need to change the world tomorrow.
Our staff work hard to close opportunity gaps for our scholars, and the data speaks for itself: In 2023, on the rigorous Illinois Assessment of Readiness, GLA had the highest percentage of students reaching proficiency in ELA and Math of all elementary schools in Hyde Park, Woodlawn, South Shore, and South Chicago.
We are proud of our growth and achievement, but we have our sights set even higher for the 2024-25 school year, and we need your help to reach our goals. We are seeking a high-capacity, hungry, and humble 3rd Grade ELA Teacher.
Job Overview
A Great Lakes Academy 3rd Grade ELA Teacher will be part of a team of talented, committed teachers working to change the face of education on the Southeast Side of Chicago. Our Teachers take responsibility for the high academic achievement and character development of every child in their classrooms. This role will internalize and teach our rigorous, engaging curriculum to two 3rd grade homerooms.
Job Responsibilities
Internalize and deliver lesson plans that are rigorous, relevant, and engaging, setting students up for success in high school, college, and beyond
Lead a safe, structured, supportive classroom culture by building relationships with students, leveraging systems & routines, and consistently implementing GLA’s code of conduct
Use academic data to inform whole-group, small-group, and individual instruction and to drive student growth and achievement
Establish relationships with students’ families, communicating frequently and partnering in student success
Consistently model the Great Lakes Academy BE GREAT virtues: Gratitude, Respect, Excellence, Accountability, and Truthfulness
Collaborate with all staff members across team, grade level and subject area
Actively participate in weekly 1:1 coaching and regular professional development (PD), including our three-week summer PD in August
Competencies
Belief in and alignment with Great Lakes Academy’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable
Humility: Self-reflective with a growth mindset and ability to accept and implement feedback
Reliability: Willingness to work hard, be flexible, and overcome obstacles in the pursuit of goals
Kindness: Strong relationship builder with students, families, and other staff members
Mastery of and enthusiasm for your academic subject
Willingness to place student achievement as highest goal
Committed to serving students of color on the South Side of Chicago
Job Requirements
Bachelor’s degree required
Teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred, but not required
Eligibility to work in the United States on a full-time basis
Valid IL Professional Educator License (PEL) preferred, but not required
Benefits
For out-of-state candidates, up to $3,000 for relocation in the form of reimbursable expenses
Tuition reimbursement available for candidates earning their PEL, LBS1, and/or ESL endorsement
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision
FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and DCA (Dependent Care Account)
Lifestyle Reimbursement Account, $150 towards wellness (physical, mental/emotional, and financial)
Paid STD, LTD, and life insurance
Voluntary benefits include critical illness and accident insurance
403(b) and pension retirement plans
Staff wellness program with mental health, legal support, and financial counseling
Free student breakfasts and lunches provided for staff daily
Opportunities to earn additional stipends for leading after-school enrichment, sports programming, and more!
As an equal opportunity employer, Great Lakes Academy hires without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable law
Great Lakes Academy
Mary Griffin