What are the responsibilities and job description for the Founding 9th Grade Pathways Teacher position at Des Moines Prep?
Founding Pathways Teacher | Des Moines Prep
www.desmoinesprep.org
About Des Moines Prep
Des Moines Prep is a new public charter high school opening in August 2025 to serve 150 ninth-grade students in its inaugural class. The school will add an additional grade level each year, building out a full comprehensive high school that offers academic excellence, a wide array of extracurriculars, and hyper-focused college and career preparation. As one of the flagship schools for Opportunity Education ( www.opportunityeducation.org ), Des Moines Prep aims to set a model for schools nationwide.
About the Role : Pathways Teacher
The Pathways Teacher at Des Moines Prep plays a vital role in guiding students as they explore their interests, identify potential careers, develop professional and personal finance skills, and engage in community service projects. This role connects students to a deeper understanding of who they aretheir strengths, beliefs, dreams, and skillsand how these insights align with future college and career opportunities.
This role requires a passionate educator who is committed to aligning students with diverse opportunities to explore themselves and the wide array of possibilities awaiting them after high school. The Pathways Teacher will collaborate closely with college counselors to ensure that students' career interests are supported by exploration of colleges, universities, and other postsecondary learning opportunities.
Responsibilities
As a dynamic and growing organization, responsibilities will evolve; however, core areas of focus include :
Instruction and Student Development (50%)
- Teach courses focused on career exploration, professional skills, personal finance, and community service.
- Instruct students on essential life skills such as resume writing, interview techniques, and budgeting.
- Support students in identifying their strengths, interests, and goals to inform their postsecondary planning.
College and Career Readiness (20%)
Community Engagement and Experiential Learning (20%)
Program Development and Collaboration (10%)
Ideal Candidate Experiences
Ideal Candidate Traits
Application Process
Interested applicants should apply online.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with preference given to candidates applying before March 21, 2025 . Candidates advancing through the process should expect multiple rounds of interviews with various stakeholders, a potential performance task, reference checks, and a blend of in-person and virtual interviews. The goal is to identify the ideal candidate by no later than March 30, 2025
Compensation
Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations. This role is eligible for IPERS (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System) and a full suite of medical, dental, vision, and other benefits.
Start Date
The expected start date for the position is August 1, 2025, with onboarding and professional development before the school year begins to ensure a successful founding year.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.
