Upper School Jewish Studies Teacher - Grades 5-8

Description:

About Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School:
Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an independent community school serving students in TK–8. Our mission is to cultivate a joyful learning community that builds students’ capacity for critical thinking, creativity, and moral courage through a complementary curriculum of general and Jewish studies.

Hausner enrolls approximately 340 students and offers a rigorous academic program supported by small class sizes, exceptional faculty, and a strong sense of community. We are committed to educating the whole child and to fostering an inclusive, diverse environment grounded in shared values.

Why Teach Jewish Studies at Hausner?

At Hausner, Jewish Studies is not a siloed subject. It is a living framework that shapes how students understand themselves, their relationships, and their responsibilities to the world. Our Jewish Studies classrooms invite students to wrestle with text, ideas, and values in ways that are intellectually rigorous, developmentally responsive, and deeply human. Teachers are trusted as designers of learning experiences, supported by a collaborative faculty, and encouraged to take intellectual and pedagogical risks. If you are excited by Jewish learning that is thoughtful, student-centered, and values-driven, Hausner is a place where your work will matter.

Starting August 2026

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School seeks a skilled, reflective, and collaborative educator to serve as an Upper School Jewish Studies teacher for grades 5-8.

This role is ideal for an educator who believes Jewish learning should be engaging, meaningful, and relevant, and who designs learning experiences that help students think critically, connect personally, and grow ethically within a vibrant Jewish community.

Jewish Studies at Hausner emphasizes:

• Text study that builds skills in close reading, interpretation, and questioning
• Jewish values as lived commitments, not abstract ideas
• Developmentally appropriate approaches to theology, ethics, and identity
• Student voice, discussion, and reflection
• Integration of social-emotional learning with Jewish content
• Joy, curiosity, and intellectual seriousness

Professional Qualities and Skills:

• Deep knowledge of Jewish content, texts, traditions, and values
• Student-centered approach grounded in curiosity, relationship, and challenge
• Ability to differentiate instruction to support a wide range of learners
• Commitment to collaboration with colleagues and clear communication with families
• Strong classroom management grounded in clarity, consistency, and care
• Reflective practice and openness to feedback and professional growth
• Comfort using instructional technology and digital learning tools
• Knowledge of digital citizenship and responsible technology use
• Willingness to contribute to community-building events and school life

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Teach Jewish Studies classes in Upper School
• Design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons that foster a love of Jewish learning and critical thinking
• Facilitate weekly tefillah, creating meaningful prayer experiences that support spiritual and communal growth
• Serve as an advisor for a small group of Upper School students, supporting their academic, social, and emotional development in collaboration with colleagues and the school counselor
• Collaborate with the Jewish Studies Department and grade-level colleagues to plan, integrate, and strengthen curriculum and instruction
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners
• Participate actively in faculty meetings, professional learning, and school initiatives
• Attend and support school events such as Open House, Back to School Night, and student programs
• Chaperone overnight grade-level trips when applicable

Requirements:

Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Advanced Jewish education or a significant Jewish learning and text background
• Prior teaching experience with demonstrated classroom management skills
• Experience working with elementary and/or middle grade students preferred

Compensation:

• Competitive salary range: $85,000-$105,000 annually, dependent on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, 403b Retirement Plan, Long- and Short-Term Disability, Voluntary Life and Accident Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Commuter Checks, and Flexible Spending Account

Other:

• This posting does not necessarily represent a comprehensive list of responsibilities or qualifications.
• The school reserves the right to modify or discontinue this position at any time.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals of all backgrounds are respected and valued. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, or any other status protected by law