2026-27 Elementary Lead Teacher

One City Schools; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

14 PTO days plus holidays, spring and winter breaks

On‑campus infant care program

Home ownership support through Own‑It Program

Full health benefits (medical, dental, vision)

Job summary

One City Schools in Madison, Wisconsin, is seeking an Elementary Lead Teacher dedicated to fostering nurturing environments for students. The role emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and a commitment to education for diverse populations.

Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a valid Wisconsin Educators License, along with a strong record in teaching. The position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and unique staff benefits such as infant care support and professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years teaching experience, preferably with urban populations.
• Experience with EL Education or project-based learning preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative units of study.
• Establish positive classroom culture and monitor structures for active learning.
• Engage in continuous professional development and collaborative planning.

Skills

Innovative thinking

Collaborative teamwork

Cultural competency

Problem-solving

Growth mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education or related field

Valid Wisconsin Educators License

Job description

Position Overview

As an Elementary Lead Teacher, you'll create warm, nurturing environments where young scholars develop critical thinking, problem‑solving skills, and strong character while mastering essential knowledge. Working within our acclaimed EL Education framework, you'll design engaging units of study that promote deep understanding and prepare students for middle school success and beyond.

Responsibilities

Create Inspiring Learning Experiences

• Develop and execute innovative units of study aligned with State Standards and EL Education curriculum
• Design lesson plans promoting critical thinking, problem‑solving, and character development across math, science, and social studies
• Utilize authentic formative and summative assessments to gauge learning and provide timely feedback
• Implement multi‑tiered systems of support (MTSS) to meet diverse learning needs
• Keep current with curriculum, child development, and educational best practices

Foster Collaborative Communities

• Establish classroom cultures that are safe, collaborative, celebratory, and intellectually challenging
• Build positive, engaging relationships with families to strengthen educational programs
• Utilize community building practices including meaningful rituals and traditions
• Monitor effective classroom structures promoting active, student‑driven learning
• Maintain academically‑focused environments with organized instructional materials

Drive Educational Excellence

• Use evidence and data to inform instruction and creative resource utilization
• Involve parents and community volunteers in the educational process
• Participate in ongoing curriculum reviews and provide program effectiveness feedback
• Engage in continuous professional development and collaborative grade‑level planning
• Work cooperatively across all areas of instruction, assessment, and classroom management

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education or related field
• Valid Wisconsin Educators License or evidence of licensure pathway
• Minimum 3 years teaching experience (urban and diverse populations preferred)
• Experience with EL Education or project‑based learning preferred
• Strong commitment to working with diverse racial/cultural populations

Leadership Qualities

• Deep passion for working with young children and their families
• Growth mindset with openness to evaluation, coaching, and feedback
• Innovative thinking and creative problem‑solving abilities
• Collaborative spirit with commitment to teamwork and shared mission
• Energy, flexibility, and willingness to embrace strategic change for scholar success

Benefits & Compensation

Comprehensive Package

• Competitive salary based on education, experience, and demonstrated impact
• 11‑month assignment with dedicated planning time
• 14 PTO days plus holidays, spring break, and winter break
• Full health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• Life insurance and long‑term disability
• Employee assistance program
• Automatic admission for your age‑eligible child to One City Schools

Unique Staff Benefits

• On‑campus infant care program with discounted rates
• Access to 2K‑3K programs with discounted tuition
• Home ownership support through Own‑It Program ($19,000 down payment grants available)
• Comprehensive professional development in student‑driven, project‑based learning

About One City Schools

Our Mission: To seed a new model of public education ensuring children are on track to succeed from birth through high school graduation.

Our Impact:

• Both schools "Exceeded Expectations" on 2024 state report cards
• Elementary: outpaced 87% of Wisconsin public elementary schools
• Middle School: outpaced 94% of Wisconsin public middle schools
• 94% of preschoolers test kindergarten‑ready

Why One City?: We're more than a school system—we're educational innovators influencing policy, curriculum, and teaching practices across Wisconsin and beyond. From pioneering pandemic safety protocols to leading $2.6 billion in education funding advocacy, One City is shaping the future of public education.

Ready to make an impact? Join our mission to transform education and change lives.

One City Schools is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members and applicants are treated with respect and dignity.

Application Deadline: Position remains open until filled.