25-26 SY: 5th Grade Social Studies/Science Teacher - Launch our Middle School

As the 5th Grade Social Studies/Science Teacher at DeKalb Brilliance Academy, you will lead engaging and culturally-responsive curricula, focusing on both academic and social-emotional learning goals. You'll be responsible for facilitating project-based learning, assessing student progress, and collaborating with families to create Learning Partnership Plans tailored to individual student needs. Communication with families is key, with weekly updates on student progress, and you'll also work closely with your colleagues to share assessment insights and instructional strategies. Your role also includes contributing to a supportive school culture, implementing restorative practices, and maintaining a positive learning environment.

To qualify for the 5th Grade Social Studies/Science Teacher position at DeKalb Brilliance Academy, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree, with preferred experience in K-3 education, particularly within culturally-relevant project-based learning. Candidates with a minimum of two years of teaching experience are preferred, as well as demonstrable impacts on student growth. Georgia certification or eligibility to pursue one is strongly favored, and those with advanced degrees or specializations may find higher compensation. Your passion for education and commitment to equity are paramount in this role.

DeKalb Brilliance Academy embraces a unique educational approach that merges rigorous academics with social-emotional learning, fostering a community-centered environment where students thrive. As a 5th grade teacher, you will implement Entrepreneurial Project-based Learning, where students engage with professionals from diverse fields, enhancing their learning experience through real-world applications. This approach not only nurtures academic skills but also empowers students to become critical thinkers and leaders in their communities.

DeKalb Brilliance Academy provides substantial support to its 5th Grade Social Studies/Science Teachers to ensure success in the classroom. Each teacher receives a dedicated coach who has a proven track record of success with students, as well as a daily planning period and specific time for collaboration with fellow educators. The academy also supplies necessary materials and resources, including comprehensive curricula for various subjects, teaching supplies, and professional development opportunities, allowing teachers to focus on delivering impactful lessons.

Community involvement is deeply embedded in the teachings at DeKalb Brilliance Academy. As a 5th Grade Social Studies/Science Teacher, you will be encouraged to collaborate with community leaders, families, and students to create a learning environment that reflects and addresses the unique needs of the South DeKalb community. Participation in community events and establishing partnerships that enrich the curriculum will be key aspects of your role, ensuring that students not only learn from the school but also from their broader community.

For project-based learning, I focus on creating real-world scenarios that allow students to apply their knowledge and skills. I plan engaging projects that align with the curriculum but also incorporate student interests, which fosters enthusiasm and deeper understanding. I ensure to include clear learning objectives and assessments to gauge student progress and provide feedback.

In my previous role, I faced a classroom with diverse learning needs. To accommodate this, I differentiated instruction by offering various activities that catered to different learning styles. For instance, while teaching a science unit, I provided hands-on experiments, visual aids, and opportunities for group work, ensuring every student engaged with the content meaningfully.

I maintain open lines of communication with families by sending weekly updates on student progress through emails and communication platforms. I also schedule regular family meetings to discuss their child's academic and social development. By creating a collaborative learning partnership, I ensure families are informed and engaged in their child’s education.

To manage classroom behavior, I establish clear expectations from the beginning. I promote a supportive environment by using restorative approaches that encourage students to reflect on their actions and understand the impact of their behavior on others. I also involve students in problem-solving discussions to foster a sense of community and accountability.

I believe social-emotional learning is fundamental in education as it equips students with the necessary skills to navigate their emotions and relationships. By integrating SEL into my teaching, I help students develop resilience, empathy, and collaboration among peers, ultimately contributing to their overall success both academically and socially.

To ensure cultural responsiveness, I actively seek to understand my students' backgrounds and experiences. I incorporate diverse perspectives and materials in my lessons that reflect the richness of students’ cultures. Additionally, I encourage open discussions about cultural differences and similarities, which helps foster an inclusive and respectful classroom environment.

Collaboration with colleagues is vital for a thriving educational environment. I regularly engage with fellow teachers to share best practices and discuss student performance. By working together on curriculum planning and assessments, we can enhance our instruction and provide more cohesive learning experiences for our students.

In one of my previous roles, I implemented a project on environmental science, where students investigated local ecosystems. They conducted research, collaborated with local experts, and presented their findings to the community. This project not only deepened their understanding of scientific concepts but also sparked a passion for environmental stewardship.

I utilize a mix of formative and summative assessments to gauge student understanding. Formative assessments like exit tickets and peer feedback help me adjust instruction in real-time, while summative assessments provide a broader view of students’ mastery at the end of a unit. Continuous assessment allows me to provide targeted support for each student’s learning journey.

What motivates me as an educator is witnessing my students' growth and successes. Each time a student grasps a new concept or makes a connection, I feel fulfilled and driven to create more engaging learning experiences. Knowing that I am contributing to their future inspires me to continually grow and improve as a teacher.