Middle School Religion Teacher, Maryknoll School

POSITION NAME:  Teacher, Middle School Religion

DEPARTMENT/GRADE LEVEL:

Middle School

REPORTS TO:  Middle School Dean

EFFECTIVE DATE:  08-01-26

CLASSIFICATION:  Exempt

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:  The teacher collaborates in the effective operation of a Catholic education program by supporting the goals and spirit of Catholic education in general and the school programs in particular; ensuring an effective instructional program; continuing in professional growth; encouraging student educational growth.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:  (The essential functions/major responsibilities listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position.  Duties and responsibilities are also subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.) 

A teacher is expected to have competencies in the following major areas:

1. COMMUNITY OF FAITH
   1. Supports and implements the mission/philosophy of Catholic education and the school
   2. Gives evidence of lived Gospel values
   3. Participates in building faith community

1. INSTRUCTIONAL PROCESS
   1. Demonstrates evidence of prior planning and preparation
   2. Presents classes clearly and effectively
   3. Evaluates student progress effectively
   4. Adjusts curriculum and instruction to provide for individual differences
   5. Demonstrates ability to motivate students
   6. Maintains an atmosphere conducive to learning in both the physical environment and the learning atmosphere
   7. Knows and uses technology appropriately in and during instruction
   8. Demonstrates an understanding in delivering the curriculum using the Rigor, Relevance and Relationship Framework.

• INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS
  1. Works cooperatively with administration
  2. Works positively with colleagues, support staff, and parish staff
  3. Demonstrates positive interpersonal relations with students
  4. Maintains positive interpersonal relations with parents

1. PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
2. Plan and deliver standards-based religion instruction aligned with diocesan guidelines, integrating Scripture, Church teachings, and Catholic moral principles into daily lessons.
3. Develop and implement engaging lesson plans and assessments that support student understanding of Catholic doctrine, sacraments, prayer, and faith formation.
4. Foster students’ spiritual growth by leading daily prayer, facilitating reflective activities, and modeling Catholic values consistent with the mission of the school.
5. Prepare students for liturgies and sacramental participation (e.g., Mass, reconciliation), including coordinating class involvement in school-wide worship.
6. Assess and monitor student progress in religion, maintain accurate records of student performance, and provide timely feedback to students and parents.
7. Create and maintain a respectful, inclusive classroom environment that supports faith development, encourages discussion, and upholds Gospel values.
8. Collaborate with faculty, campus ministry, and administration to support religious programs, service projects, and school-wide faith initiatives.
9. Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding student progress, behavior, and participation in religion-related activities.
10. Supervise students and fulfill assigned duties (e.g., lunch, recess, dismissal, school events) to ensure student safety and adherence to school expectations.
11. Maintain compliance with all school, diocesan, and legal requirements, including safe environment practices, mandated reporting, and professional responsibilities.
12. Supervise students during non-instructional periods, including lunch, recess, passing periods, and before/after school as assigned.
13. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
    1. Keeps abreast of developments in curriculum and methodology
    2. Interacts with colleagues to further professional growth
    3. Takes advantage of opportunities for professional improvement
    4. Completes necessary work toward obtaining and/or maintaining a valid teaching license

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.  Master’s Degree preferred. 

Minimum of 3-5 years of teaching experience in public, charter, parochial, or independent school.  Must be an active, practicing Catholic who models the faith in personal and professional life.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, talk, reach, sit, hear, handle, and perform repetitive motions of the hands/wrists.  Teachers must be able to stand and/or sit for extended periods.  May need to climb stairs and lift, carry, push and/or pull items up to 25 pounds.  Must be able to respond effectively to, and lead the class in  emergency situations.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is usually performed in a classroom setting within the time frame established by the Division Head.  Employee is occasionally required to attend evening meetings and may oversee field trips and other special events. 

SUPERVISION

1. Reports directly to the Dean.
2. Works collaboratively with department members, grade-level teams, and student support staff.
3. May supervise students in classroom and non-classroom settings, including advisory, recess, and school activities, as assigned.