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Experiential Learning Teacher

2605 School St. Rockford, IL 61101; 3051 Rotary Rd. Rockford, IL 61109

Galapagos Rockford Charter School is seeking dynamic and innovative Experiential Learning Teachers for the 2025–2026 academic year. We are hiring for three positions across the following grade bands:​

  • Kindergarten–2nd Grade

  • 3rd–5th Grade

  • 6th–8th Grade​

The Experiential Learning Teacher will be responsible for designing and implementing hands-on, project-based learning experiences that align with Common Core Standards and cater to the individual needs of each scholar. This role involves integrating real-world applications into the curriculum to enhance student engagement and mastery of academic content.​

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver experiential learning units that are directly tied to academic standards.

  • Design and implement targeted daily whole group and small group lesson plans, as well as assessments that measure progress towards academic standards.

  • Use assessment data to refine curriculum and inform instructional practices.

  • Participate in collaborative curriculum development, frequent professional development, and feedback/coaching meetings.

  • Be accountable for scholars' mastery of academic standards.

  • Ensure a structured, orderly, and calm classroom environment through the use of Teach Like a Champion, Calm Classroom, and Collaborative and Proactive Problem Solving techniques.​

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree is required.

  • Minimum of one year of teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred, but not required.

  • Valid Illinois Certification is helpful but not required.

  • Drive to stay focused on scholar achievement and growth even when it is difficult.

  • Grit to be solution-focused and keep going until the desired results are achieved.

  • Growth mindset to see failures and setbacks as challenges to learn from and overcome.

  • Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.

  • Belief in and alignment with Galapagos' core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.​

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary range: $40,000–$75,000, based on experience and qualifications.

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, flexible spending plans, and paid vacation time.

  • Certified staff members receive matching contributions to the teacher pension fund.

  • All staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including intensive coaching and professional development, a laptop computer, e-mail, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.​

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