Lower School Math & Science Teacher (Leave Replacement)

Job Description

Job Description

KHAN LAB SCHOOL

Khan Lab School, founded by Sal Khan in 2014, is an innovative TK-12 independent school with 3 campuses, serving over 260 students in Silicon Valley, CA and Wichita, KS. Our Lower School (grades TK-5) is in Palo Alto, CA, our Middle and Upper Schools (grades 6-12) are in Mountain View, CA.

We were established to test and refine the educational vision outlined in Sal Khan's 2012 book, "The One World Schoolhouse," which explores the development of modern education, the origins of Khan Academy, and a forward-thinking approach to both in-person and online learning.

Building on this foundation, Sal Khan's latest book, "Brave New Words," further expands on his educational philosophy and vision for the future. At Khan Lab School, we're committed to implementing these innovative ideas and preparing students for success in the rapidly evolving knowledge economy. 

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Lower School Math & Science Teacher (Leave Replacement) at Khan Lab School leads a rigorous, student-centered math program for students in Kindergarten through Grade 5, supporting learners across a wide range of levels from foundational numeracy through Algebra 1. This role includes embracing mastery-based and inquiry-driven approaches aligned with the KLS vision. The Math Specialist designs and facilitates engaging learning experiences that build conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and mathematical reasoning.

Working closely with the Lower School team, the Math & Science Teacher (Leave Replcement) creates an inclusive, student-centered classroom environment grounded in active learning and differentiation. This includes using assessment data to inform instruction, meeting the needs of learners at varying skill levels, and maintaining regular communication with families and colleagues about student progress. The Math & Science Teacher (Leave Replacement) is an educator who is both analytical and flexible and can respond to a wide range of learner needs while maintaining high expectations for all students. Beyond the classroom, the Math & Science Teacher (Leave Replacement) contributes to the broader life of the school through collaboration, admissions support, and professional engagement, and is committed to continuously refining their practice in alignment with Khan Lab School’s vision.

SPECIFIC JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Academic Duties:

• Teach math-science to students in Kindergarten to 5th grade who span math and science skills from Kindergarten to Algebra 1, as assigned by the Lower School Director. 
• Teach using Common Core Standards as a guide, with a commitment to mastery-based and inquiry-based approaches aligned with the KLS vision.
• Guide students in each course in developing and presenting high-quality projects for each end-of-term exhibition.
• Maintain regular communication with students, families, teachers, and other professionals about student progress and submit progress reports by the end of each term.
  Prepare students to participate in Student-Led Conferences.
• Other related duties, as assigned.

Teaching & Vision Alignment:

• Facilitate classes with an emphasis on active learning and real-world contexts, minimizing direct instruction. Primarily utilize methods such as think-pair-share, experiential learning, case studies, peer teaching, independent studies, and inquiry-based learning.
• Leverage assessment data to inform instruction, provide timely feedback to students, and complete progress reports by identified deadlines.
• Utilize external instructional resources , including Khan Academy, to accommodate diverse learning needs and backgrounds for in-person courses.  Collaborate with school leadership to identify materials.
• Develop curriculum and learning experiences aligned with the KLS teaching vision.
• Identify, select, and modify instructional resources to meet the needs of students with varying backgrounds, learning styles, and learning needs in collaboration with the school leadership and as approved by the Executive Director.
• Actively explore and stay current with emerging technologies, including AI tools, and apply them meaningfully to your role.
• Create an inclusive environment where students of diverse backgrounds and political perspectives feel welcome, fostering critical thinking through thoughtful questioning.
• Work collaboratively with the Lower School team to support student learning and contribute to the ongoing development of the school.

Contribution to KLS:

• Fulfill duties as assigned by the Lower School Director, such as playground supervision.
• Be accessible to students for interaction and support.
• Write letters of recommendation for summer and school programs, as requested. 
• Attend faculty meetings and participate in professional development , including team meetings, departmental meetings, and any schoolwide professional development programming. 
• Serve as a faculty ambassador for the Admissions team during our re-enrollment and admissions period. This includes Pre-Admission events and Post Application Events; these events may take place outside of school hours. 
• Uphold professional and ethical standards in all interactions within the school community.
• Participate in activities that contribute to the life and culture of KLS, to be determined in collaboration with the Lower School Director. This could include participating in and planning school events or facilitating a student club.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THE ROLE

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred.
• Ideal candidates will have an academic background in elementary education.
• Prior elementary math teaching experience required.
• Expertise in teaching math curricula from an introductory level to advanced concepts.
• Understanding and support of Khan Lab School’s core values, mission, and vision.
• A passion for working with elementary students and an understanding of where they are developmentally.
• Knowledge and experience using Khan Academy for instruction, when applicable.
• Commitment to inquiry-based, project-based learning, and other progressive pedagogies.
• Prior experience analyzing student data and using a variety of assessment techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills while able to communicate effectively and respectfully.
• Flexibility to shift and take on a variety of tasks as the school continues to grow and change.
• Ability to reflect on one’s own effectiveness, respond well to feedback, and adjust instruction accordingly.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push and pull up to 25 pounds as some regular organizational tasks involve moving desks, chairs, electronics, and other school supplies and equipment, as needed.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Capability of occasionally moving around an office setting to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
• Ability to proficiently and frequently operate a computer and keyboard as well as other office equipment such as calculators, copy machines, printers, and projectors.
• Consistently practice safe working habits while using school supplies, equipment, and electronics as well as the ability to maintain a safe and hazard-free workstation for yourself and others at the school.
• Occasionally required to work nights and/or weekends for special events, which are sometimes held outside, and require the ability and willingness to work in all weather conditions at any time of the year.
• Ability to properly communicate information and ideas so other people can understand as well as the ability to ascertain and understand information communicated from others.

WHAT WE OFFER Khan Lab School is a community of learners and partners who have a deep commitment to their work. We get things done and believe that in our highly collaborative environment, anything is possible. All our decisions are made through the lens of what is best for our students. We tackle tough questions without ego, are results-oriented, and have high expectations for school and our students. 

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please submit the following:

• Current resume.
• A cover letter expressing interest in, and qualifications for, this position.
• A list of 3 professional references with their name, phone number, email address, job title, and what your working relationship was with them. References will not be contacted without the candidate’s permission. 

PAY & BENEFITS

• Start Date:  October 13, 2026
  
• Reports To: Lower School Director
• Reporting Location:  Palo Alto, CA 94306
• Classification: Temporary; Full-time; Non-Exempt
• Schedule:  Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm PST, and some nights and/or weekends for school events, as required.
• Salary Range: $40.00 - $45.00 per hour, depending upon experience.

Khan Lab School is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate based on race, color, creed, place of national origin, sex, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity, gender expression, and transgender), religion (beliefs, observances, or practices, including religious dress or grooming), marital status, registered domestic partner status, ancestry, genetic information, physical or mental disabilities, medical conditions, and/or military or veteran status in its employment practices or any other considerations made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws.