High School History/Social Science Teacher - 2025-2026 School Year

Job Title: High School History/Social Science Teacher

Job Classification: Licensed Instructional

Reports to: The Portage School of Leaders Head of School

Work Schedule: Academic Year / 7:45 am - 4:15 pm

General Description:

The Portage School of Leaders seeks a social science teacher for the 2025-2026 academic year. The ideal candidate will be committed to engaging students in meaningful learning experiences as they foster interdisciplinary connections, academic growth, and exploration in an innovative learning environment. This team member teaches high school history and social sciences, as required by the Indiana State Standards, to the students at the Portage School of Leaders, an innovative, competency-based public charter high school.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of bachelor's degree in education or related field.
• Must have or be willing to obtain an appropriate Indiana Teacher License to teach History/Social Science.
• Preference will be given to candidates with a master's degree in History or Education.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Designs and facilitates learning experiences that align with our school-wide competencies and state standards, using a competency-based, mastery-driven approach to support all students in developing durable academic and lifelong skills.
• Creates a classroom environment that is intellectually engaging, inclusive, and emotionally safe where students engage meaningfully with interdisciplinary learning and historical inquiry.
• Develops and revises unit plans, lessons, and assessments that promote deeper learning, with an emphasis on project-based learning and performance assessments. Courses will likely include United States History, World History, Government, and potentially support in the English Language Arts department—instruction and planning will also include integrated, interdisciplinary project-based-learning with cross-departmental colleagues.
• Implements standards-based assessment practices, using clear learning targets, frequent formative feedback, and multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate mastery over time.
• Uses data and student reflections to personalize instruction and support students with diverse needs, including students with IEPs, multilingual learners, and those working toward advanced competencies.
• Maintains accurate records of student progress, growth toward competency, and qualitative feedback using the Mastery Transcript platform and other school systems.
• Builds strong relationships with students and families, communicating regularly and partnering to support student development across academic and personal domains.
• Collaborates with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects and to integrate the school’s Portrait of a Leader, with emphasis on connection, agency, inquiry, reason, and communication.
• Serves as a Wayfinder (Advisor) to a group of approximately fifteen (15) students, supporting their academic planning, social-emotional development, and postsecondary exploration and preparation.
• Participates in professional learning communities, engages in instructional coaching cycles, and contributes to the continuous improvement of school practices and culture.
• Other duties as assigned by the Administration.

School Activities:

The high school history/social sciences teacher is required to attend and/or participate in such other activities as directed by the Head of School such as: faculty meetings (before or after school hours), open houses, commencement exercises, chaperone student activities, provide guidance for students, participate on faculty committees, study, and help resolve school problems.

Essential Skills and Abilities:

• Competency in the administration and interpretation of academic ability testing.
• Ability to use technology for documentation and preparation of professional materials.
• Ability to teach and assist students in the use of computer applications.
• Ability to communicate assessment results, in written and oral forms, to parents and professionals.
• Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate behavior plans for use in general and special education settings.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and contribute meaningfully to collaborative team environments.
• Commitment to lifelong learning and growth, particularly in adapting to new technologies and instructional tools.

Must demonstrate foundational professionalism, including consistent attendance, punctuality, adherence to school policies and procedures, and strong employability skills. These are considered essential, non-negotiable expectations of the role.

At the Portage School of Leaders, we emphasize deeper learning and competency-based education, promoting durable, interdisciplinary skills alongside content mastery. Teachers here prioritize deeper learning, differentiated instruction, and academic and personal growth. Located in a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in downtown South Bend, the Portage School is designed for collaboration and creation, and our relationship-focused environment encourages student agency, fosters wonder, and helps students develop skills for life and a passion for lifelong learning.

• Minimum of bachelor's degree in education or related field.
• Must have or be willing to obtain an appropriate Indiana Teacher License to teach History/Social Science.
• Preference will be given to candidates with a master's degree in History or Education.