Schnitzer Family Campus - Mittleman Jewish Community Center & Portland Jewish Academy Is Hiring A Hebrew & Jewish Studies Teacher

Exciting Opportunity: Hebrew & Jewish Studies Teacher at Portland Jewish Academy ✡️📚

Join a empowering community dedicated to fostering Jewish learning through an inclusive, values-based environment.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Jewish Life, the Hebrew & Jewish Studies Teacher will develop engaging educational experiences that nurture students' understanding of Jewish texts, traditions, and values, while creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment.

About Portland Jewish Academy 🌟

Portland Jewish Academy (PJA) offers an academically rigorous, values-driven education from infants through eighth grade. Our community embraces diversity and promotes Jewish engagement, cultivating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone belongs. Guided by our middot (values) and mission, we are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice, ensuring a genuine sense of belonging and respect for human diversity.

Position Details

This role can be structured as part-time (0.5 FTE) or more, depending on the candidate’s skills and interests. Benefits include:

• Medical insurance for employees working 0.7 FTE or more
• Paid time off, sick leave, and holiday pay (up to 24 holidays, plus spring and winter breaks)
• Free membership to the MJCC
• Tuition and camp discounts for children of employees

Responsibilities & Duties 📝

• Design & Implement: Develop a curriculum that aligns with PJA’s philosophy while addressing the diverse needs of students.
• Teach: Lead engaging Hebrew and Jewish studies classes for assigned sections.
• Differentiation: Utilize various tools and strategies to support diverse learners and promote equity.
• Collaborate: Work with colleagues on interdisciplinary planning and integrated learning projects.
• Assess & Support: Use formative and summative assessments to monitor progress and provide constructive feedback.
• Communicate: Maintain open communication with students, families, and staff regarding curriculum and student needs.
• Professional Growth: Engage in ongoing professional development and contribute to a reflective learning community.

Qualifications 🎓

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Jewish Studies, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum of 3 years classroom teaching experience, preferably in progressive or independent schools
• Strong knowledge of Jewish culture, middot, and texts such as TaNaKh, tefilah, and rabbinics
• Understanding of adolescent development and a commitment to holistic education
• Passion for diversity, equity, inclusion, and creating a sense of belonging
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Reflective, curious, and growth-minded educator focusing on student-centered, justice-oriented learning environments

Additional Requirements 🔧

This position requires the ability to:

• Attend to students for extended periods, involving sitting or standing
• Utilize technology and digital tools effectively for curriculum preparation and communication
• Move throughout the school campus to support students and supervise during the school day
• Occasionally lift and organize classroom materials and equipment to maintain a conducive learning environment

Our Commitment to Diversity & Equal Opportunity 🤝

Portland Jewish Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to recruiting, developing, and promoting qualified individuals without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected class under law. We will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities, where feasible, to ensure an inclusive and accessible workplace.