Founded in Chicago in 1876, Sacred Heart Schools at Sheridan Road (Hardey Preparatory for Boys and Academy of the Sacred Heart for Girls) are independent, Catholic, single-gender elementary schools committed to academic excellence within the context of a Christian, faith-based community. The educational mission is deeply rooted in the 200-year tradition of the Society of the Sacred Heart and shared with the Network of Sacred Heart Schools located in 30 countries; including 25 schools in the United States and Canada. The essence of this tradition is the total development of each child: spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical. Our girls and boys are taught in single-gender classrooms, but follow a similar curriculum and share in many activities. With a total enrollment of approximately 600 students, the Schools are organized into three academic divisions each led by a division head.
Position Description
Sacred Heart Schools is seeking a Religion Teacher whose chief responsibility will be to work within the scope of the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Education to teach religion and support Campus Ministry.
Essential Job Functions:
As a member of the Primary School Faculty, the teacher will be responsible for:
• Providing catechesis for students • Creating a welcoming space for children of all faiths to come to know God more deeply and to grow in their understanding of their (and others’) religious traditions • Collaborating on the leadership of Primary School chapel, including preparing students for liturgical roles and planning Breaking Open the Word sessions (for grades SK-1) • Collaborating with the Campus Minister to prepare second grade students for the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, as well as components to serve the children who are not receiving the sacraments (including evening and weekend commitments) • Continuing to develop and evaluate the Primary School religion curriculum • Serving as a member of the liturgy team and collaborating with the Campus Minister and religion faculty to ensure a cohesive vision for religious education in grades PK-8 • Supporting school-wide Campus Ministry events • Working as an active and collaborative member of grade teams and with other Primary School faculty members
The Religion Teacher will work within the scope of the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart to achieve these basic teacher expectations:
• Supports – Implements – Models the Goals and Criteria for Sacred Heart Schools • Demonstrates appropriate planning and preparation for instruction • Develops and maintains a classroom atmosphere that inspires learning • Upholds professional standards of personal presentation, discretion, punctuality, and clear, direct, open communication • Appropriately carries out specific assignments, including but not limited to assigned supervision and duties, and other areas as assigned by the Leadership Team • Maintains professional credentials and/or certification as defined by our accrediting agency and consistent with band level placement • Aligns with other faculty members and Campus Ministry for vertical curriculum coordination • Provides comprehensive parent communication and education concerning students’ performance and progress
A Successful Candidate will:
• Integrate technology into curriculum and instruction • Demonstrate good organization and attention to detail • Have excellent communication skills with service orientation • Be highly motivated, ethical, and eager to learn • Prioritize and multi-task effectively • Enjoy working both independently and as member of a team • Continuously strive for process improvement and quality outcomes
Qualities and Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree required • Experience with elementary religious education, campus ministry, children’s initiation, children’s retreats and liturgy preferred • Experience or academic certification in theology, religious education, or pastoral studies is preferred (Candidates without certification would be expected to begin the process when hired.)
To Apply
Apply directly at the School's website (www.shschicago.org) in the Career Opportunities section, submitting a cover letter and resume.
Sacred Heart Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate.
