Middle School Humanities Guide (ELA/Social Studies)

Middle School Humanities Guide (ELA/Social Studies) 

Part-Time or Full-Time Teaching Option Available

About Aurora School

Aurora School is a progressive K-8 independent school with a strong social justice focus. We believe in empowering students to make a meaningful difference in the world. Instead of viewing the middle school years as simply "awkward" or "difficult," we see them as a critical time for growth and transformation—academically, socially, and emotionally.

We've designed an innovative middle school model that blends engaging, project-based academics emphasizing social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and real-world skill development. Our students thrive in an integrated learning environment where critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth are equally valued. At the heart of Aurora’s success are our teachers, whom we call Guides. Guides serve not only as educators but as mentors and role models, fostering deep, meaningful connections with students.

 About the Position

 Status: Part-Time or Full-Time Teaching Option Available

 Reports to: Head of School

 We seek a passionate, student-centered educator to join our middle school team

 as a Humanities Guide. In this role, you will:

• Teach project-based, interdisciplinary "Quests" that center on Humanities while incorporating other disciplines.
• Lead a weekly advisory group to support students' social-emotional development.
• Collaborate with fellow middle school educators to create a cohesive, engaging learning experience.
• Teach High School Prep Classes for 7th and 8th Graders (one semester each)

 What We Look for in a Guide

 A Whole-Self Approach to Education

 Aurora prioritizes self-awareness and social-emotional learning, recognizing that student success is about more than just academics. Our Guides create safe, inclusive spaces where students reflect on their personal growth, develop emotional intelligence, and build resilience.

A Commitment to Social Justice & Equity

We actively work to dismantle systems of oppression and create an anti-racist, multicultural learning environment. Our Guides model cultural competency, foster conversations about equity, and embrace diverse perspectives in their teaching.

A Passion for Educating Middle Schoolers

You genuinely love working with adolescents and appreciate the uniqueness of this developmental stage. You see middle school as a time for transformation—not just intellectually but socially, emotionally, and ethically.

A Growth Mindset & Love for Learning

You are constantly learning—whether through teaching, travel, personal study, or life experiences. You bring a curiosity-driven mindset to your work and model lifelong learning for your students.

An Entrepreneurial, Real-World Perspective

You bring a global, pragmatic approach to education. You understand how real-world experiences—from community engagement to problem-solving—can enhance academic learning and make it more relevant.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Curriculum Development

• Lead interdisciplinary, project-based Humanities Quests such as:

1. "What are your big dreams for U.S. democracy, and how can you make
2.  them real?"
3. "How can we as podcasters persuade adults to let kids read banned
4.  books?"
5. "What's the recipe for a revolution?"

• Guide students through inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, research, reading complex texts, writing throughout various genres and forms, and Socratic seminar-style discussions.
• Encourage real-world application of academic concepts through culminating projects and presentations.
• Schedule, organize, and chaperone excursions related to curriculum content.
• Shape and refine curriculum, incorporating student interests and current events.

Advisory & Social-Emotional Learning

• Lead a weekly advisory group where students develop social-emotional skills, ethical awareness, and personal growth strategies.
• Foster a structured, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment by setting high expectations and fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and academic excellence where students feel seen, heard, and valued.
• Implement restorative justice practices to foster accountability, repair harm, and support students in resolving conflicts constructively.

Collaboration & Community Engagement

• Work closely with middle school colleagues to create an integrated learning experience.
• Partner with families to support student success.
• Contribute to faculty meetings & school-wide initiatives

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience teaching Humanities (ELA/Social Studies) at the middle school or upper elementary level.
• Experience designing curriculum for adolescents.
• Passion for guiding students' social-emotional development in addition to academics.
• Experience with project-based learning and progressive teaching methods.
• Dedication to anti-racism, equity, and social justice in education.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• (Preferred) Experience with mindfulness, restorative justice, or social-emotional learning practices.
• (Preferred) Expedition or trip-leading experience.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $60,000 - $140,000, based on experience and education.

Health & retirement benefits, disability insurance, and professional development

opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your resume and a cover letter to Abbie Koss, Head of School. Aurora School is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and evaluate all candidates based on merit.

Learn more at www.auroraschool.org.