2026-27 Upper School English Teacher

Harvard-Westlake School; Canada; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent school in Canada seeks a full-time Upper School teacher for grades 10–12 in the English Department. The ideal candidate will design and lead inquiry-based literary explorations, focusing on analytical writing and student assessment. Required qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in English or a related field and experience in a high school environment. Compensation ranges from $85,000 to $115,000, with a generous benefits package supporting faculty well-being and growth, starting August 2026.

Benefits

High-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage

403(b) retirement plan with employer match

Cafeteria allowance

Extensive professional development support

Personal Growth Grants

Relocation assistance

Mental wellness resources

Partially subsidized employee housing

Complimentary event tickets

Discount at school bookstore

Qualifications

• Experience teaching high school English in a rigorous academic setting.
• Commitment to ongoing professional growth.
• Willingness to be involved in the broader life of the school.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead inquiry-driven explorations of literary texts.
• Guide students through composing and revising analytical writing.
• Assess student work across multiple modes.

Skills

Collaborative mindset

Clear communication

Facilitation of discussions

Creative pedagogy

Professional presence

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in English or a related field

Job description

Do you have an interest and experience in teaching high school students in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum and are ready to immerse yourself in the life of the school? Harvard-Westlake School seeks an exceptional individual to join the English Department as a full-time Upper School teacher (grades 10–12). The position begins in August and includes teaching four sections across two course preparations. Specific grade levels and courses will be determined based on departmental needs.

English teachers design and lead inquiry‑driven explorations of literary texts; guide students through the process of composing, revising, and refining analytical and argumentative writing; and assess student work across multiple modes. We value teachers who bring deep knowledge of literature, both canonical and contemporary, and who help students develop and articulate interpretive ideas in thoughtful, precise spoken and written language.

About the Department

The English Department highly values collaboration, shared purpose, and collegial engagement. Departmental work includes:

• Actively coordinating with colleagues teaching common courses
• Collaborating on the design, refinement, and implementation of shared curricula
• Adhering to department and course‑level norms, including:
  • Use of common texts and core curricular frameworks
  • Shared skills benchmarks and assessment practices
  • Common rubrics and grading norms
  • Maintaining pacing aligned with course teams

We’re Looking For Candidates Who Demonstrate:

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in English or a related field
• Experience teaching high school English in a rigorous academic setting
• A collaborative, team‑oriented mindset and commitment to shared departmental work
• The ability to convey ideas clearly and concisely, elicit thoughtful student contributions, and structure purposeful class time
• Skill in facilitating seminar‑style discussions and fostering an engaging, intellectually ambitious classroom environment
• Creativity and flexibility in pedagogy and assessment
• A genuine love of teaching and working with students in and beyond the classroom
• Commitment to ongoing professional growth
• A collegial, respectful, and professional presence within the department
• Willingness to be actively involved in the broader life of the school

About Harvard-Westlake

Harvard-Westlake is an independent school with two campuses in Los Angeles and approximately 1,600 students enrolled in grades 7–12. Our students are curious, thoughtful, and inspiring young people who engage deeply with both academic and co‑curricular life.

We are dedicated to fostering a community of belonging and continually advancing diversity and inclusion across all aspects of school life. We do not discriminate on any basis. We seek candidates who bring sensitivity, understanding, and respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds; who can work collaboratively and independently in a dynamic environment; and who exemplify professionalism openness, and generosity in their interactions with students and colleagues.

Compensation

Anticipated base compensation: 85,000 - 115,000, depending on experience.
Start date: August 2026 for the 2026–27 school year.

We are proud to offer a generous benefits package designed to support the well‑being and growth of our faculty and staff. Highlights include:

• High-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage with low or no premiums for you and your dependents
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 10% employer match and immediate vesting
• Cafeteria allowance — enjoy breakfast and lunch through our on-campus dining program
• Extensive professional development support and continuing education opportunities
• Personal Growth Grants that foster continued growth and exploration
• Relocation assistance
• Employee Affinity and Resource Groups that foster connection and belonging
• Mental wellness resources and workshops
• Partially subsidized employee housing (when available)
• Complimentary tickets to local sporting and entertainment events
• Discount at the school bookstore — stock up on HW spirit wear!