1st Grade Teacher (2025-2026)

Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix
Catholic Schools Office
Teacher Job Description

I. POSITION TITLE:

Teacher
Department: Catholic Schools
Grade: 1st Grade, Self-Contained
Supervisor: Principal or Designee

II. PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

Under the supervision of the principal, the teacher is a person of faith who strives to achieve the goals of Catholic education. The teacher assumes responsibility for the leadership and management of the 1st-grade classroom, developing and implementing an instructional program that meets the needs of the students in accordance with the Diocesan Curriculum Standards. The teacher maintains detailed and accurate records, establishes positive school-community relationships, and participates in professional development to remain current with religious and academic certifications. Additional job-related tasks may be assigned by the principal.

III. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Faith and Catholic Education:

• Models Catholic values and incorporates the Catholic philosophy of education.
• Promotes and lives gospel values and Catholic moral teachings.
• Upholds and integrates the doctrinal teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Provides opportunities for the faith development of students to prepare them for life in the Church and society.
• Demonstrates Catholic living through personal example.

Classroom Leadership and Management:

• Creates a positive and engaging learning environment that fosters student growth.
• Organizes and manages the classroom to maximize learning.
• Ensures the safety, welfare, and care of students during school hours.
• Cultivates a sense of Catholic community within the classroom and school.
• Adheres to diocesan, school, and state policies and regulations.
• Demonstrates respect and fairness when interacting with students and families.
• Develops and follows a daily and weekly schedule aligned with the 1st-grade curriculum.

Instructional Program Development and Implementation:

• Integrates Catholic teachings across all curricular areas.
• Assesses individual student needs and adjusts instruction accordingly.
• Employs diverse instructional strategies and incorporates technology to enhance learning.
• Plans lessons aligned with the Diocesan Curriculum Standards.
• Engages all students in classroom activities and discussions.
• Collaborates with administration and parents to address student needs, including evaluations and interventions when necessary.

Student Assessment and Progress Evaluation:

• Uses a variety of assessments to monitor student learning.
• Aligns assessments with instructional goals and the Diocesan Curriculum Standards.
• Provides constructive feedback to students promptly.
• Maintains accurate grading and reporting systems as required.
• Submits official reports, attendance records, and statistics by deadlines.
• Maintains daily lesson plans to ensure instructional continuity.

Technology Integration:

• Recognizes that the school is an Apple Distinguished School and integrates Apple technology into instruction to enhance student learning.
• Demonstrates knowledge and comfort with Apple products, including iPads and MacBooks, and uses these tools effectively in the classroom.
• Incorporates technology creatively to engage students and support 21st-century skills.

School-Community Relationships:

• Maintains positive and cooperative relationships with all members of the school community.
• Promotes a respectful and supportive school culture.
• Communicates effectively with parents through conferences, meetings, and regular updates.
• Participates in curricular and co-curricular programs and events.
• Actively engages in school faculty meetings and in-service training sessions.

Professional Development:

• Pursues ongoing professional growth in both academic and religious education.
• Participates in diocesan-sponsored training and certification programs.
• Actively supports and engages in the school’s continuous improvement process.
• Maintains personal records of professional development activities.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Performs other job-related tasks as assigned by the principal.

IV. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Demonstrates self-discipline, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Exercises good judgment in daily interactions and decision-making.
• Communicates effectively in both verbal and written forms.
• Displays an appropriate sense of humor and positive demeanor.
• Shows understanding of teaching techniques and child development principles.
• Maintains professional grooming and attire in accordance with the faculty handbook.

V. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Faith: Preference is given to Catholic teachers. Non-Catholic candidates must support Catholic teachings and philosophy and be willing to make a public Profession of Faith if Catholic.
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Certification: Holds Arizona State Department of Education teaching certification and meets applicable accreditation standards.
• Preferred Qualification: A Reading Endorsement is strongly preferred.
• Training:
• Completed Safe Environment Training and signed the Code of Conduct.
• Holds FBI Fingerprint Clearance.
• Meets Ministry Formation Certification and/or recertification as required by Diocesan policy.