High School Teacher

The Rock Academy seeks a dynamic, dedicated high school teacher to educate, inspire, and prepare students for success in academics, careers, and life. The ideal candidate will excel in lesson planning, classroom instruction, student assessment, and fostering a supportive learning environment. This role involves teaching students in grades 9-12 while aligning instruction with graduation requirements, including core academic subjects, career and technical education (CTE), and workforce readiness.

Performance Responsibilities

Instruction & Lesson Planning

• Design and deliver a curriculum aligned with The Rock Academy's framework and Common Core Standards, emphasizing CTE pathways and workforce skills.
• Provide engaging, rigorous instruction tailored to diverse learning needs and abilities.
• Develop comprehensive lesson plans aligned with state standards and graduation requirements, ensuring students complete the following coursework:
  • Four (4) credits in English: English I, English II, English III, and English IV.
  • Four (4) credits in Mathematics: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry (or Integrated Math I, II, and III), and an additional mathematics course beyond Algebra I or Integrated Math I.
  • Three (3) credits in Social Studies.
  • Three (3) credits in Science.
  • Two (2) credits in the same World Language.
  • One (1) credit in Fine Arts.
  • Three (3) credits in an elective CTE focus.

Student Assessment and Progress Monitoring

• Evaluate students' strengths, weaknesses, and learning needs through formal and informal assessments.
• Assign, grade, and provide feedback on projects, assignments, and tests.
• Regularly assess students’ knowledge and skills, ensuring progress toward meeting graduation requirements.
• Prepare students for state-required standardized End of Course (EOC) Exams by integrating test-specific skills and knowledge into the curriculum.

Classroom and Student Management

• Establish, communicate, and enforce classroom rules, policies, and behavioral expectations.
• Supervise students during class, lunch, detention, and other non-instructional periods to ensure safety and order.
• Create a positive and inclusive learning environment that motivates and challenges students to achieve academic success.
• Lead dynamic, hands-on classroom activities that encourage inquiry and critical thinking.
• Use qualitative and quantitative data to assess and address students' needs, ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all.
• Build meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues to nurture a positive, joyful, and inclusive learning environment.
• Celebrate achievements and foster a community of mutual respect and encouragement.

Other Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one support to help students overcome learning challenges and meet graduation milestones.
• Challenge high-achieving students to further develop their skills and prepare for post-secondary opportunities.
• Maintain open and regular communication with parents regarding students’ progress, challenges, and achievements.
• Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and community stakeholders to enhance the educational experience.
• Stay informed about the latest teaching techniques, curriculum updates, and educational technologies.
• Participate in school-wide training and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain emotional control under stress and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Occasional extended hours for school events, meetings, or professional development sessions.
• Supervise and support students in both classroom and non-classroom settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field; a teaching certification is required.
• Proven experience in lesson planning, classroom instruction, and student assessment.
• Strong understanding of high school curriculum standards, including English, mathematics, science, social studies, and CTE pathways.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to create an engaging, inclusive, and safe classroom environment.
• Proficiency in using technology and educational tools to enhance teaching and learning.
• Familiarity with state testing protocols and requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse student populations and address varying learning needs.

Terms of Employment

• This is a full-time teaching position aligned with the academic calendar. Compensation and benefits are determined based on qualifications and experience.

CTE Teacher

The Rock Academy seeks a dynamic, innovative, and motivated high school teacher dedicated to preparing students in grades 9-12 for career and technical pathways and workforce readiness. This role involves delivering engaging instruction aligned with career-focused programs and providing wraparound services to support students holistically. The teacher will create an inclusive, hands-on learning environment that promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world application of skills. Focus Areas: Career and Technical Education (CTE), Workforce Readiness, and Wraparound Services.

Instructional Planning and Delivery

• Develop and implement lesson plans focused on CTE and workforce readiness objectives.
• Use project-based and experiential learning strategies to connect classroom instruction to real-world applications.
• Incorporate diverse teaching methodologies to cater to students’ varying learning styles and abilities.
• Demonstrate techniques, procedures, and proper use of tools and equipment in a lab setting, supervising students during practical activities.

Curriculum Integration

• Utilize curricula aligned with industry standards and career pathways to ensure students are prepared for post-secondary education or employment.
• Integrate competencies, goals, and objectives into lesson plans to meet academic and career-readiness benchmarks.
• Leverage resources to design career-oriented projects and activities that enhance instruction.

Student Engagement and Development

• Enforcing strict safety procedures and guidelines in the lab environment.
• Foster a positive educational climate that supports academic success and career readiness.
• Encourage and motivate students to achieve personal and professional goals through innovative incentives.
• Provide individual and group tutoring to address specific needs and promote mastery of skills.

Assessment and Evaluation

• Observe and evaluate students’ academic and skill performance, providing constructive feedback to foster improvement.
• Prepare and distribute reports that reflect student progress and goal attainment.
• Maintain and report accurate records, including attendance, grades, and other required documentation.

Professional Growth and Collaboration

• Participate in ongoing professional development and training related to CTE, workforce readiness, and best teaching practices.
• Engage with colleagues, program coordinators, and administrators to align instructional efforts with school-wide goals.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, educational advancements, and current practices in CTE and workforce education.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE) or related workforce development fields.
• Comprehensive knowledge of curriculum standards and instructional strategies for high school students, particularly in grades 9-12.
• Skilled in incorporating practical industry knowledge into engaging and relevant classroom instruction.
• Exceptional organizational abilities, coupled with strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and student-centered learning atmosphere.
• Proficiency in a specialized trade or technical area, with hands-on industry expertise.
• Possession of a valid teaching license, including a CTE endorsement.
• Demonstrated capability to manage instructional labs, prioritize safety protocols, and provide hands-on training.
• Familiarity with and ability to utilize industry-standard tools, equipment, and software effectively.
• Effective instructional delivery methods that inspire student interest and support career readiness.
• Passion for equipping students with skills for success in careers, post-secondary education, and life.
• Ability to build relationships with parents, students, and community partners.

Terms of Employment

• Contract Duration: 200 days per school year (180 days for students).
• Salary and School Year Calendar: Determined by administration.

Main Office and Attendance Liaison

The Attendance Liaison performs a variety of clerical tasks related to student attendance, ensures accuracy in attendance records, and supports the school administration in maintaining an organized and efficient attendance system. This position is critical as the Attendance Liaison will work in constant communication with Mentors and the attendance team to determine the cause of absenteeism and collaborate on solutions, particularly when transportation is a barrier. A high degree of attention to detail, accuracy, and the ability to troubleshoot issues is essential.

Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Mentors and the attendance team to determine the causes of student absences and help solve transportation-related issues, ensuring students are able to attend school regularly.
• Participate as part of the recruitment team, ensuring student numbers are maintained during both the startup phase and ongoing operations.
• Maintain a variety of attendance records, schedules, and files (manual and computer) to provide reliable information in compliance with district policies.
• Admits late students and maintains records of tardiness; oversees the "sign out" process and keeps records of students’ absences due to appointments.
• Make and receive telephone calls, take messages, and route calls, while supporting other school communication needs through emails and updates.
• Prepare daily, weekly, and/or monthly reports (e.g., passes, attendance reports, letters to parents) to convey information about attendance procedures.
• Process documents related to attendance, student placement, and disciplinary actions.
• Respond to inquiries from staff, parents, probation officers, other schools, and students, providing information and guidance.
• Assist with conferences with parents/guardians regarding attendance, discipline, and student behavior.
• Maintain student files and records, pulling and compiling information for reports as requested.
• Enroll and withdraw students according to school and district procedures.
• Meet with new students and parents to complete registration and orientation.
• Communicate with parents, students, and staff about attendance issues and requirements, ensuring compliance with district and state absence notification requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Administrator.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; previous office experience preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of building positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage time efficiently.
• Ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in basic computer skills and knowledge.
• Ability to maintain a professional and friendly demeanor.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, operate a computer, and other office equipment.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment

• The work environment is typical of a school setting, main office, with interaction between staff, students, and the public.
• The noise level may vary depending on daily activities but remains within an acceptable range.
• Frequent exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses is possible.
• The employee must handle multiple demands and work in both inside and outside areas.

Student Support Coordinator

The Rock Academy, Tennessee’s first Opportunity Public Charter School, is committed to re-engaging chronically absent students and foster youth through an inclusive, supportive, and academically rigorous environment. We seek to change the trajectory for students who are often overlooked, ensuring they are seen, welcomed, and equipped for success in life. The ideal candidate shares this deep belief in the potential of all students and a passion for educational equity, approaching their work as a reflective, collaborative, and student-centered practitioner who helps every Rock Academy student thrive academically, socially, and personally.

The Student Support Coordinator at The Rock Academy plays a critical role in ensuring that every student, particularly those with disabilities and Multi-Language Learners (MLLs) receives the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support necessary to thrive. This position is ideal for a passionate and skilled educator who understands that equity begins with access and individualized support.

Reporting to the principal, the Student Support Coordinator is responsible for and leads all aspects of special education compliance and programming, manages student support systems, and collaborates with teachers, families, and community partners to remove barriers to learning. This role includes direct work with students, guidance for staff, and oversight of interventions that promote growth, belonging, and success for all learners.

Primary Responsibilities

Special Education Leadership & Compliance

• CLead the school’s special education program to ensure 100% compliance with IDEA, state, and district requirements.
• Lead and Manage all IEP processes, including meetings, evaluations, documentation, and implementation of accommodations and modifications.
• Collaborate with teachers to design and deliver lessons to ensure accommodations and modifications are planned for and implemented with fidelity.
• Partner with external agencies, related service providers, and evaluators to ensure timely delivery of required services.
• Maintain accurate student records, track and monitor progress toward IEP goals, and prepare all necessary reports and submissions.
• Provide daily instruction, push-in or pull-out, to meet the goals of students' IEPs and to ensure compliance with the IEP.

Multi-Language Learner (MLL) Support

• Coordinate services and supports for MLL students with the MLL Lead Educator, ensuring compliance with state and federal guidelines.
• Support teachers in implementing effective-language-development strategies and classroom accommodations.
• Collaborate with the school leadership team to monitor the progress of MLL students and provide interventions or adjustments as needed.
• Serve as the liaison with district ELL staff and families to ensure clear communication and access to resources.

Professional Development & Staff Collaboration

• Collaborate and support teachers in inclusive practices, differentiation, and behavior management strategies for our exceptional learners.
• Lead professional learning sessions on topics such as accommodations, co-teaching, trauma-informed practice, and culturally responsive instruction.
• Facilitate regular collaboration meetings with general education teachers to ensure consistent implementation of student support plans.

Family & Community Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with families through consistent communication and collaboration on student progress.
• Host family meetings to review IEPs and support plans, ensuring families understand their rights and the school’s commitments.
• Collaborate with community organizations to connect students with wraparound supports and enrichment opportunities.

Qualifications

• Valid Tennessee Special Education teaching certificate (required).
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, Counseling, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of teaching experience, including experience with students with disabilities with proven academic results.
• Experience managing IEPs, 504s, or ELL compliance processes strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of inclusive education practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of organization, follow-through, and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with digital tools (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and virtual learning platforms).

Mentor

The Mentor will play a critical role in The Rock Academy’s mission to re-engage disconnected youth. Mentors will work closely with a cohort of students, guiding them throughout their entire high school experience. The primary responsibilities include building meaningful relationships, serving as a first point of contact for redirection and support, and fostering student success through individualized attention and resource connections.

Performance Responsibilities

• Student Engagement: Develop and maintain trusting relationships with students in your cohort, providing consistent support and encouragement.
• Guidance and Redirection: Act as the first point of contact for students requiring redirection, offering immediate guidance and connecting them with appropriate resources.
• Relationship Building: Foster a strong sense of community and belonging within the cohort through regular check-ins, one-on-one meetings, and group activities.
• Progress Monitoring: Track and document students’ academic, social, and emotional development, collaborating with staff and families to address challenges.
• Advocacy: Advocate for students’ needs within the school, ensuring they have access to necessary supports and opportunities for growth.
• Resource Coordination: Identify and connect students to wraparound services, extracurricular programs, and other resources that align with their needs and goals.
• Collaboration: Work closely with faculty, counselors, and administrators to ensure a holistic approach to student success.

Qualifications

• Passion for working with youth, especially those from underserved or at-risk backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build trust and maintain confidentiality.
• Experience in mentoring, counseling, education, or related fields is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, psychology, or a related field is a plus but not required.

Core Competencies

• Empathy and active listening skills.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities.
• Cultural competency and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to The Rock Academy’s mission and vision.

Working Conditions

• The position may require occasional evening or weekend hours to accommodate school events or student needs.
• Mentors will spend the majority of their time interacting directly with students in a school setting.

Compensation

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.