Elementary and Middle School Physical Education Teacher

Location: East Lake Academy 13911 W. Laurel Drive, Lake Forest, IL

Job Type: Full-Time, Academic Year

Position Overview

East Lake Academy, a Christ-centered Catholic school committed to academic excellence, human formation, and physical well-being, is seeking a dynamic and energetic Physical Education Teacher. This individual will be responsible for teaching physical education classes to elementary school students while overseeing the planning, organization, and administration of the school's athletic programs. We are looking for a creative, enthusiastic, and motivated individual who is not only passionate about physical education but is also eager to develop and enhance the athletic culture within our school community.

Key Responsibilities

Mission And Vision Alignment

• Foster an environment that is aligned with the Catholic teachings, values, and the mission of the school
• Encourage spiritual growth and respect for all students, reflecting Catholic values in all aspects of teaching and interactions
• Act as a role model of professionalism in a Catholic environment
• Support the philosophy, policies, and goals of the school, and administration
  
  

Physical Education Teacher Responsibilities

• Design and Deliver Engaging Curriculum: Plan and implement dynamic, creative, and developmentally appropriate physical education lessons that focus on skill development, fitness, and wellness. Ensure that each lesson aligns with both state standards and the school's Catholic mission.
• Foster Physical Fitness and Character Development: Promote a lifelong love of physical fitness, teamwork, and good sportsmanship. Encourage healthy habits, and instill values of respect, kindness, and perseverance as part of the PE program, tying these into the school's Catholic teachings and traditions.
• Inclusive and Positive Learning Environment: Create an atmosphere that encourages all students to actively participate and feel valued, regardless of their skill level. Develop activities that are adaptive and focused on building students' self-confidence.
• Track Student Progress: Assess student progress regularly and provide constructive feedback in a positive and supportive manner. Keep parents informed of their child’s development in physical education.
• Promote Safe Physical Activities: Ensure that all activities are safe and appropriate for the students' age and physical ability. Maintain proper equipment and ensure that safety protocols are followed at all times.
• Collaborate with Teachers and Staff: Work closely with other teachers and staff to integrate physical activity into the overall school curriculum, and support school-wide events and initiatives.
  
  

Athletic Director Responsibilities

• Organize and Manage Athletic Programs: Oversee and manage the school’s athletic programs, including after-school sports, intramural teams, and special athletic events. Ensure programs are designed to encourage teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition in accordance with Catholic values.
• Coaching and Mentorship: Provide mentorship and guidance to student-athletes, helping them balance academics, faith, and athletics.
• Athletic Scheduling and Logistics: Coordinate practices, games, and competitions (with coaches), ensuring smooth operation of all athletic events. Manage scheduling and communication with other schools for athletic events.
• Promote Student Involvement: Actively encourage students to participate in athletics, promoting the importance of fitness, teamwork, and perseverance through extracurricular activities. Work to ensure that all students, regardless of ability, have access to some form of athletic engagement.
• Equipment and Facility Management: Oversee the maintenance of athletic equipment and facilities, ensuring everything is in good condition and meets safety standards. Purchase and organize necessary equipment for sports programs.
• Liaison for Parents and Community: Serve as the point of contact for parents, school staff, and community members regarding athletics, keeping them informed of event schedules, needs, and results. Foster a positive relationship between the school, parents, and the community.
  
  

General Responsibilities

• Be a Positive Role Model: As both a PE teacher and Athletic Director, you will be a key role model in demonstrating faith-based values such as integrity, discipline, humility, and respect. Show students how these values apply both in athletics and in life.
• Collaborative Team Player: Work as part of a larger educational team, actively engaging with other teachers, administrators, and support staff. Participate in school-wide events, faculty meetings, and ongoing professional development to continuously improve your teaching methods.
• Open to Feedback and Professional Growth: Demonstrate a willingness to receive constructive feedback from administrators, peers, and students. Actively seek professional development opportunities in both physical education and athletic program management.
  
  

Qualifications

• Education: A Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology, or a related field. Additional certification in physical education, coaching, or athletic administration is a plus.
• Experience:
• Previous experience in teaching physical education, preferably at the elementary level.
• Experience in coaching, athletic program management, or serving as an athletic director is highly desirable.
• Experience working in a Catholic school environment is preferred but not required.
• Skills:
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask effectively in managing both PE classes and athletic programs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with students, parents, staff, and the community.
• Creative and resourceful in developing dynamic physical education lessons and athletic programs.
• Ability to foster a culture of teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect both in PE and athletic programs.
• Ability to integrate faith-based principles into athletic coaching and teaching.
• Personal Attributes:
• High energy, enthusiasm, and passion for physical fitness and athletics.
• Team-oriented and collaborative with a willingness to work closely with colleagues and school leadership.
• Open-minded, flexible, and committed to continuous professional growth and improvement.
• Ability to motivate and inspire young students both in the classroom and on the field.
• Strong moral character and the ability to serve as a role model for students in both athletics and life.
  

How to Apply: Qualifications and job expectations not limited to the list above. If interested, please contact Rosario Echavez, principal at rechavez@eastlakeacademy.org or call 847-247-0035 ext. 202

• Can be made full-time if interested in overseeing After School Program