At Westridge, a forward-thinking independent girls’ school for grades 4-12 located in Pasadena, California, students have the space to develop the skills and confidence needed to draft their own extraordinary story. Since 1913, Westridge has been a leader in girls’ education, providing an unrivaled learning environment focused on girls’ academic and personal development. We balance challenging academics and a focus on leadership with a priority on social emotional wellness. Westridge students develop a strong sense of self and a thoughtful consideration of their responsibilities to others and the world. Throughout its long history, Westridge has remained committed to its pioneering legacy so that each girl rises to her fullest potential and that women collectively rise to gender equity in the fullest sense.

Westridge is seeking an experienced Middle School History teacher to join our team of dedicated faculty members. Reporting to the Director of Lower and Middle School, the successful candidate will teach eighth grade U.S. History as part of an interdisciplinary American Studies program that integrates English and History. Centered on essential questions about American identity, citizenship, and contemporary issues, the course emphasizes inquiry, project-based learning, and the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. Through collaborative, creative, and critical work, students are challenged to make meaningful connections across disciplines and apply their learning in authentic ways. They will maintain a full-time teaching load of four classes as well as serve as an advisor. The ideal candidate will have an interest and skill in collaborating with colleagues and the potential and willingness to contribute beyond the classroom.

Course offerings in History are intended to provide students with a clear understanding of the history 

of world cultures and civilizations. Emphasis is placed on seeing the connections between history and contemporary questions and issues, and students are introduced to a wide range of viewpoints in an effort to understand the richness of diverse cultural traditions, both in the United States and across the globe. Primary sources are emphasized, not only to complement the historical narrative, but as a way to promote critical and analytical thinking. In addition, students will develop their research and writing skills.

Specific Responsibilities Include:

• Convey enthusiasm for content and intellectual inquiry
• Maintain grade-level history course pages
• Preparation of course materials in collaboration with the history department, including syllabi, homework assignments, assessments, and supplementary materials
• Administration and evaluation of class work, assignments, and assessments

• §  Integrate appropriate technology to enhance learning; Westridge is a 1:1 laptop environment

• Collaborate effectively with students, teachers, administrators, staff and parents
• Model flexibility in implementing best learning practices
• Support the well-being of all students
• Participate regularly in professional development opportunities to maintain and grow expertise in the subject matter
• Participate in ongoing skill development in diversity and equity to promote a culture of community and inclusion

• §  Build skills and provide opportunities that help recognize, respect and embrace diversity of all kinds, and contribute to a culture of inclusion
• §  Participate in the greater life of the division and school including attendance at student, parent and admissions events
• §  Serve as an advisor to a small group of students, providing ongoing academic advising and social emotional support

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required (history preferred); advanced degree preferred
• 3 years’ teaching experience including demonstrated enthusiasm for teaching history to middle school students
• Ability to teach different subjects in history and a willingness to shift subjects to accommodate the needs of the department and the school

• §  Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• §  Demonstrated competency in student and faculty work that promotes diversity, inclusion, equity, and community engagement
• §  Demonstrated experience and skill in the effective use of technology and integrating technological applications in the classroom
• §  Previous experience developing and implementing diversity responsive curriculum to improve teaching and student learning

• Collaborative and collegial attitude and a desire to work closely with a departmental team
• Diligent and well-organized work habits
• Strong understanding of the developmental needs of young women and girls
• Strong commitment to the mission and vision of Westridge School

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors as required (i.e. field trips, overnight trips)

Schedule and Salary

This is a full-time exempt position and is eligible for Westridge’s comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, medical, vision, dental, and generous retirement plan.  Office hours are 7:50 am – 3:30 pm; with flexibility to work evenings and weekends when necessary.  Annual salary depends on qualifications and years of experience teaching with a range of $63,000 - $100,000+.

To Apply

Send cover letter, resume, and references to Jobs@Westridge.org. Include “Middle School History Teacher” in the subject line. 

Westridge School is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are evaluated without consideration of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.  For more information: www.Westridge.org.