Sociology & Personal Finance Teacher (Immediate)

The Sociology & Personal Finance Teacher at Valor Collegiate Academies is responsible for designing engaging lessons aligned with the curriculum, collaborating with special education teachers to meet diverse student needs, and implementing assessments to track progress. They also mentor students, engage families, and participate in school events to foster a strong school culture.

To apply for the Sociology & Personal Finance Teacher position at Valor, candidates must possess an active Tennessee teaching license with an endorsement in Sociology 7-12 or be actively enrolled in a TDOE-approved Job-Embedded Program. Additional qualifications include strong content knowledge, experience in classroom success, and a commitment to diversity.

The salary for the Sociology & Personal Finance Teacher at Valor Collegiate Academies ranges from $55,000 to over $77,000. The placement on this scale is determined by the years of lead teaching experience in a K-12 school, ensuring that educators are compensated fairly for their expertise.

Valor Collegiate Academies offers a comprehensive benefits package for Sociology & Personal Finance Teachers, including health (medical, dental, and vision) plans, retirement benefits with a 5% company contribution, 8 days of PTO, fully-paid parental leave, and an annual discretionary course budget for classroom supplies.

Valor is committed to the continuous growth of its educators. Sociology & Personal Finance Teachers can access up to 100 professional development hours each year, individualized coaching, and opportunities for stipends for additional leadership roles, ensuring they have the resources needed to excel in their practice.

The interview process for the Sociology & Personal Finance Teacher position at Valor includes a resume review, phone interview, teacher performance task, virtual sample lesson and leadership interview, and reference checks, ensuring candidates are thoroughly assessed for their skills and fit with the school's culture.

Valor Collegiate Academies is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. The organization actively seeks applicants from various backgrounds to enhance community perspectives, demonstrating its commitment to equity and inclusion in education.

To create an engaging learning environment, I focus on relevant real-world applications of sociology and personal finance concepts. This includes integrating interactive activities, cooperative learning, and current events to make the lessons relatable and motivating for students.

I utilize formative and summative assessments, such as quizzes, projects, and performance tasks, to gauge student understanding. I also analyze data from these assessments to adjust my teaching strategies and provide targeted support to students who need it.

I implement differentiated instruction techniques, such as tiered assignments, flexible grouping, and scaffolding, to support the varying needs of diverse learners. I also collaborate closely with special education staff to ensure accommodations are made effectively.

Building relationships is critical! I engage with students through consistent communication, one-on-one mentoring, and by creating a classroom culture that promotes trust. For families, I maintain proactive communication and invite them to participate in learning experiences.

Social-emotional learning is central to my teaching philosophy. I integrate SEL through lessons that promote self-awareness, empathy, and decision-making skills, allowing students to develop positive relationships and ultimately enhance their academic performance.

One successful lesson involved a project where students analyzed local economic issues and proposed solutions. This project not only deepened their understanding but also involved community engagement, which made the learning experience impactful and memorable.

I regularly attend professional development workshops, follow reputable educators and organizations on social media, and participate in relevant online communities to stay current on the latest trends and best practices in sociology and personal finance education.

I leverage technology by using interactive presentation tools, online simulations for economic scenarios, and platforms for peer collaboration. Incorporating these technologies helps to engage students and prepare them for a tech-driven world.

My classroom management strategies are built on clear expectations, positive reinforcement, and consistent routines. I also implement community-building activities to foster a respectful and collaborative classroom atmosphere.

In today's rapidly changing world, understanding social dynamics and financial literacy is crucial for students. It prepares them to make informed decisions, understand their rights and responsibilities, and fosters critical thinking skills that are essential to navigating life successfully.