Upper Elementary Teacher

Carlthorp; Santa Monica (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent school in Santa Monica is searching for a dedicated Classroom Teacher to foster a nurturing and engaging learning environment for K-6 students. The role emphasizes collaboration among teachers using a co-teaching model, integrating technology into lessons, and maintaining open communication with families. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Elementary Education and a minimum of three years of teaching experience. Salary ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of teaching experience at the elementary level.
• Excellent knowledge of child development and current trends in education.
• Demonstrated experience working in a culturally diverse community.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and implement learning experiences for reading, writing, math, and social studies.
• Establish nurturing relationships with students in a trusting learning environment.
• Regularly communicate with families about classroom happenings and student progress.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Strong technology skills

Skill in differentiating instruction

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Elementary Education

Tools

Google Classroom

Job description

Established in 1939, Carlthorp School is the oldest independent co‑educational day school for grades K‑6 located in Santa Monica, California. Carlthorp School provides a strong academic foundation in a diverse and nurturing community that emphasizes respectful values, responsible work habits, and excellence to prepare students to achieve their highest potential in education and life. We are dedicated to supporting faculty growth and development through ongoing professional development and training. We have 280 students, with two lead teachers per classroom of 20 students and two classes per grade level.

Job Overview

The successful candidate must enjoy working with children and be devoted to building a nurturing and safe learning environment. To excel in this role, the Classroom Teacher must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as in‑depth knowledge of classroom activities and teaching methods.

Co‑Teaching Model

Carlthorp School employs a co‑teaching model to maximize student learning, collaboration, and instructional support. Each grade has two lead teachers working together in every classroom, ensuring small‑group instruction, differentiated learning opportunities, and a highly responsive environment. The partnership fosters strong relationships with students and creates a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Teachers also collaborate across both classrooms in the grade level, allowing broader planning, shared instructional strategies, and cross‑classroom experiences that enrich learning. This approach maintains consistency in curriculum delivery while fostering a strong sense of community among students and faculty.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and implement learning experiences for reading, writing, math, and social studies
• Establish and maintain a healthy and trusting learning environment, fostering nurturing relationships with students
• Meaningfully integrate technology into class lessons for online learning as well as in‑school learning
• Guide students in their social‑emotional development, maintaining expectations and support for positive and productive student behavior
• Collaborate with the Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion to prioritize multiculturalism and diversity in curricular work and curriculum development
• Regularly communicate with families about classroom happenings and student progress
• Update documentation of current curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Maintain records of individual student progress and achievement
• Participate fully in ongoing professional development
• Participate in the school community, including faculty and committee work, school duties, and activities such as clubs and assemblies
• Attend and chaperone experiential learning opportunities, including day trips and overnight field trips

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Elementary Education preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of teaching experience at the elementary level
• Excellent knowledge of child development, latest education theories and practices, and current trends in education and professional development
• Strong communication skills
• Strong technology skills, familiarity with Google Classroom and other educational technology tools preferred
• Skill in differentiating instruction
• Demonstrated experience working in a culturally diverse community

Salary: $80,000–$120,000, commensurate with experience

This job operates on a 10‑month calendar. Evening and weekend hours may be required.

Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter in a single PDF document to [e-mail].