African American History Teacher

As an African American History Teacher at Promise Academy, your main responsibility is to engage K-5 students in an enriching curriculum that highlights the significance of African American history. This role involves lesson planning, delivering interactive and culturally responsive instruction, assessing student progress, and fostering an inclusive classroom environment. You will collaborate with other educators, participate in professional development, and contribute to the overall mission of Harlem Children’s Zone to ensure that students not only learn but also thrive.

To qualify for the African American History Teacher position at Promise Academy, candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree and preferably hold a NYS Teaching Certification in Child Education for grades 1-6. At least 3 years of relevant teaching experience is desired, especially in urban education settings. A deep passion for African American history and a commitment to the mission of Harlem Children’s Zone are essential as well. Excellent oral and written communication skills are also crucial for this educational role.

The salary range for the African American History Teacher position at Promise Academy is between $71,000 and $140,000 per year. Salaries are determined based on several factors, including years of experience as lead teachers, levels of education (bachelor’s or master’s degree), and specific teaching certifications. This competitive compensation reflects the value we place on quality education and the dedication of our educators.

Promise Academy offers a comprehensive benefits package for African American History Teachers that includes student loan forgiveness up to $30,000 after 12 months of employment, sign-on bonuses, health insurance, life insurance, and short-and-long term disability coverage. Additional perks include wellness discounts, commuter benefits, financial wellness resources, and career advancement opportunities. We believe in supporting our educators to ensure they have the resources needed for their success and well-being.

At Promise Academy, professional development is a cornerstone of our educational philosophy. Teachers are provided with bi-weekly training sessions aimed at enhancing their instructional methods and personal growth. Additionally, educators have access to a supportive team of academic coaches, deans, guidance counselors, and social workers who collaborate to ensure that they are well-equipped to inspire and educate their students effectively.

When teaching African American history to young students, it’s vital to create an engaging and interactive learning environment. Use storytelling, visuals, and multimedia resources to bring history to life. Tailor lessons to the interests of your students and relate historical events to their lives today. Encourage discussion and questions, and create a safe space for students to share their thoughts and experiences.

Absolutely! One successful lesson plan involved a project where students researched a prominent figure in African American history. They presented their findings through a creative medium, such as a poster or digital presentation. This not only helped them learn factual content but also developed their research and presentation skills, making them more engaged and invested in the subject.

I use a variety of strategies to engage all students, such as incorporating hands-on activities, group work, and technology. I differentiate instruction based on learning styles and ensure that lessons are relevant to students’ lives. Using games, discussions, and collaborative projects can also boost engagement, making learning fun and dynamic.

I utilize formative assessment strategies like quizzes, exit tickets, and classroom discussions to gauge student understanding regularly. Additionally, I encourage peer assessments where students evaluate each other's work. This not only helps me identify areas needing improvement but also fosters a collaborative learning atmosphere.

Incorporating cultural relevance into teaching involves integrating culturally significant texts, resources, and historical context into lessons. I actively seek to understand my students’ backgrounds and interests, using their experiences as a starting point for discussions. This approach helps students connect more deeply with the material and fosters a sense of belonging in the classroom.

My approach to classroom management is proactive, establishing clear expectations and routines from day one. I believe in building relationships with students to understand their needs. In the event of disruptions, I remain calm and consistent, often redirecting the behavior positively or discussing the issue privately with the student.

Supporting diverse learning needs requires flexibility and a range of instructional strategies. I create Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students who need them and modify assignments to accommodate different skill levels. I also use cooperative learning groups, allowing students to work together and learn from one another, which can be especially effective in a diverse classroom.

I have collaborated with special education teachers, language specialists, and fellow grade-level colleagues to enhance student learning. This collaboration has involved co-planning lessons, co-teaching, and sharing resources to meet the needs of all learners. This teamwork fosters a richer educational experience for students and allows us to share our strengths.

I believe my teaching style is successful due to its emphasis on inclusivity and engagement. I incorporate students’ voices into lessons, adapting my methods based on their feedback. I ensure each student feels valued in the classroom and is excited about learning, which significantly contributes to their academic success.

I am motivated to teach African American history because it is crucial to understanding our nation’s past and present. I believe that educating young minds about the contributions and struggles of African Americans fosters respect and appreciation for diversity. I'm passionate about empowering students with knowledge that shapes their perspectives and prepares them for a more inclusive future.