Elementary Physical Education Teacher (LTS)

Ithaca City School District; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ithaca City School District is seeking an Elementary Physical Education Teacher (PE) for a long-term substitute role. This position engages students in health education, supporting physical and mental well-being through active, informed instruction across multiple schools.

Ideal candidates will possess a valid New York State Certification in Physical Education and exhibit strong communication, classroom management, and organizational skills. The campaign encourages diverse applicants and values inclusive perspectives.

Qualifications

• Commitment to eliminating race, class, and disability as predictors of academic performance.
• Understanding of educational commitments to support diverse needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging physical education programs.
• Foster a positive, respectful learning environment.
• Use diverse teaching methods to meet students’ needs.
• Maintain excellent attendance and collaboration with colleagues.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Classroom management

Organizational skills

Adapt instructional practices

Education

Valid New York State Certification in Physical Education (K–12)

Job description

400 Lake Street • Ithaca, New York • 14850

Position Title: Elementary Physical Education Teacher (PE) – Long Term Substitute

Brief Description: This position reports to the Building Principal and the Director of Physical Education and Health. The Physical Education Teacher will develop an exercise philosophy that strives to engage all students, support the New York State Health standards through engaging, informed, and timely instruction. ICSD supports the health education standards and the importance of health topics, physical and mental well‑being.

This is a traveling position between several schools.

Teacher Expectations

• Help children develop physical abilities and healthy habits;
• Organize games and challenges that promote physical activity.
• Assess student progress and determine the need for additional reinforcement or adjustments to instructional techniques.
• Employ various teaching techniques, methods, and principles of learning to enable students to meet their physical activity goals.
• Create a positive learning experience.
• Employ and implement a classroom structure and consistency to encourage student responsibility, cooperation, and mutual respect consistent with district policies and procedures.
• Use multiple communication methods tailored to facilitate productive conversations with students.
• Have knowledge of instructional approaches for students with disabilities. Must be driven, organized, and able to manage students positively.
• Maintain excellent attendance, work well with colleagues, and be a dedicated team player who is reliable.
• Apply critical thinking skills needed to adapt instructional practices to support student physical growth.
• Always seek new ways to teach students healthy routines and activities.
• Coaching positions are also available in the district if desired.

Location(s): Caroline, Cayuga Heights, Fall Creek Elementary Schools

Anticipated Date: 12/17/2025 – 6/25/2026

Full Time Equivalent: 1

Required Qualifications

• The Ithaca City School District is committed to eliminating race, class, and disability as predictors of academic performance, co‑curricular participation, and discipline. Qualified candidates will demonstrate a basic awareness of these commitments and a strong willingness to support these efforts.
• Valid New York State Certification in Physical Education (K–12).

Desired Characteristics

• Strong communication, classroom management, and organizational skills.
• A commitment to supporting the whole child and contributing to a positive school culture.

The Ithaca City School District values diverse perspectives and life experiences. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans, people with disabilities, and those with lived experiences.

The Ithaca City School District does not unlawfully discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military status, veteran status, sex, disability, predisposed genetic characteristics, marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, or other federal/state protected status.