Elementary Lead Teacher 2026/27

Gig Harbor Academy; Gig Harbor (WA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent educational institution in Gig Harbor seeks a full-time Elementary Lead Teacher starting August 1, 2026. Candidates should have a bachelor's in Elementary Education, a teaching certification, and at least three years of teaching experience. Responsibilities include developing lesson plans, monitoring student progress, and collaborating with colleagues. The position is ideal for someone who values a student-centered learning environment and seeks to contribute to an inclusive school community.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years of experience teaching at the elementary level.
• Experience delivering differentiated instruction.
• Ability to maintain accurate student records.

Responsibilities

• Establish clear learning objectives for students.
• Deliver differentiated lesson plans for individual growth.
• Monitor and provide feedback on student progress.
• Plan instructional units that promote active learning.

Skills

Inquiry-based learning

Student-centered education

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education

Valid teaching certification

Job description

Gig Harbor Academy is seeking a full-time Elementary Lead Teacher starting August 1, 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for a teacher that is committed to an inquiry-based approach and a student-centered learning environment. This role will likely lead the 1st or 2nd Grade class, and will join our team of Elementary Lead Teachers with support from the Director of Elementary Education, and supervision from the Head of School. This role will join our inclusive school community of 30+ faculty and staff that serve our school of 160 students from Preschool through 5th Grade on a 10-acre wooded campus in Gig Harbor, WA. Qualified candidates will be invited to the school for a tour and interview.

PRIMARY RESPONSABILITIES

• Establish and communicate clear learning objectives for each lesson that align with the school’s mission.
• Deliver differentiated lesson plans and instructional materials that facilitate individualized student academic growth and joyful learning.
• Encourage and monitor the progress of individual students and provide appropriate feedback on work.
• Reflect sincerely on lesson delivery and student engagement, and adapt teaching strategies when needed.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of students’ development, and provide appropriate student feedback on work to promote growth.
• Collaborate openly with colleagues, administrators, and parents, including developing cross-disciplinary learning activities, liaising with grade-level teachers, implementing Student Support Plans, and showcasing student work.
• Develop a caring learning environment that nurtures student learning in an organized and professional setting.
• Plan instructional units that facilitate active learning and result in a meaningful collection of student work that convey joyful discovery.
• Encourage parents to be partners in the education of their child by establishing open lines of communication.
• Participate in appropriate professional development activities.
• Coordinate at least three field trips per school year.
• Facilitate a “Buddy Class” partnership with an Early Childhood class.
• Not required but strongly encouraged, involvement in the After-School Enrichment program.

Lead Elementary Teacher candidates must hold a valid teaching certification, have a bachelors in Elementary Education, and have a minimum of three years of experience teaching at this age level. Candidates are encouraged to visit the school’s website, www.gigharboracademy.org, for further information regarding the school’s mission and objectives. All inquiries please forward a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references including a previous supervisor to by email to Dominic Kehoe, Head of School [e-mail] [phone].

Gig Harbor Academy is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, religion, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy, physical disability, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status and all other classes or characteristics protected under the laws of the State of Washington.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & BELONGING

Gig Harbor Academyiscommitted to creating a welcoming and inclusive learningenvironment where the identity of every community member is honored. As anindependent school, we inviteand celebratediversity expressed through different backgrounds, experiences, values, and perspectives as we nurture a discovery of self, family, community, and the world. We work deliberately to deepen our understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion at our school and ensure that all students and families have a sense of belonging at Gig Harbor Academy. We embrace research, conversation, and experiences that develop our knowledge and shape our practices individually and collectively.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

All potential employees must provide a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references including a current or past supervisor. A background check will be completed prior to the start date. All newly hired employees must complete a new hire packet containing all required documentation prior to the first day of employment. All inquiries for this position can be sent Dominic Kehoe, Head of School [e-mail]