About Buffalo Commons
Buffalo Commons is an academically rigorous, creative, and collaborative K-8 learning community that uses research-based practices and innovative programming to close the opportunity gap and prepare a diverse student body to lead successful lives which strengthen their communities. We provide best-in-class academic preparation, supporting each child in becoming an ethical decision-maker, offering all students the tools they need to thrive in our diverse world, and developing every child’s sense of purpose.
Our Commitment to You
We invest in you and your development. We support you through individualized coaching, grade-team, and robust school-wide professional development.
We value your input and ideas. We’ll consult you on relevant matters that will impact you, your staff/team, and the organization as a whole.
We bring an equity lens. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement to ensure that identity, background, or culture are not what determine your success.
We strive for “real talk.” We provide direct and candid feedback. You’ll know how you’re doing and where you stand.
We make space for you to be fully seen and heard as a whole individual.
About the Position
Nothing leads to student success like working with a great teacher year after year. As a Founding Teacher, you will promote the success of all students through excellence in curriculum, instruction, and community building. Additionally, you will collaborate with your grade-team and co-teacher to lay the lasting foundations of teaching and learning systems at Buffalo Commons. The Founding Teacher reports to the Director of Curriculum and Instruction.
Primary Responsibilities
Develop and implement curricula that meet student needs
Differentiate instruction for a diverse student body
Monitor/report student’s academic and social progress
Build strong relationships with student families
Create opportunities for students to engage in the community
About You
Commons is a values driven organization. Commons might be a great place for you if you see yourself some of our core values:
Authentic. You show up fully as yourself, with integrity, self-awareness and a true understanding of “what it takes” to be a great colleague, strong educator, and fulfilled person.
Curious. There’s always more to know out there, and you’re hungry for it. You are constantly absorbing information from a variety of sources. If something doesn’t make sense, you ask questions until it does, and you apply what you learn in your work.
Creative. You leverage resources creatively to solve problems and dive right in. You often consult with others, but you can also propose solutions and get things rolling without much guidance.
Compassionate. You enjoy building authentic, mutual relationships across lines of difference. You recognize the value of divergent perspectives and regularly include others in planning and decision-making.
Committed. You are all in on making a positive difference in the lives of a diverse group of young people in our community. The mission of Commons speaks to you on a soul level.
Fun. You have a passion for education, an enthusiasm for your students and colleagues, and an ability to find the joy and humor in almost any situation - even the challenging ones.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field
Certification in teaching area (strongly preferred)
Track record of success in raising student achievement
Experience in an urban charter school (preferred)
Practical written, oral, and visual communications skills
Buffalo Commons Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, national origin, alienage or citizenship or disability.