MS Wellness Teacher

Middle School Wellness Teacher (Full-Time)
Shady Side Academy 2026-2027 School Year

Shady Side Academy's Middle School seeks a dynamic and student-centered Wellness Teacher to join our faculty for the 2026-2027 school year. This full-time position involves teaching Wellness in grades 6-8 and contributing meaningfully to the life of a vibrant, caring school community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Teach developmentally appropriate Wellness classes for students in grades 6-8
• Lead a thoughtful and intentional advisory group, supporting students' social-emotional growth
• Coach two seasons of Middle School athletics during the activities period
• Collaborate closely with the Fitness teacher to design and implement complementary, cohesive programming
• Partner with grade-level teams to support student growth and engagement
• Contribute actively to a supportive and collegial Middle School community

Qualifications and Attributes:

• Deep understanding of and appreciation for middle school students and their developmental needs
• Passion for working with adolescents and supporting their overall well-being
• Strong classroom management skills and the ability to create an engaging, inclusive learning environment
• Experience teaching in a classroom setting (middle school experience preferred)
• Ability to work effectively in shared or flexible learning spaces
• Cultural competency and sensitivity to diverse learners and perspectives
• Comfort integrating a variety of instructional approaches and modalities
• Commitment to collaboration, including interdisciplinary work with colleagues

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Health, Wellness, Education, or a related field required (advanced degree preferred)
• Experience with differentiated instruction and student-centered teaching practices
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Highly developed interpersonal skills, flexibility, and a collaborative mindset
• A sense of humor and a genuine joy in working with middle school students

Personal Statement/Cover Letter

Shady Side Academy's mission is "to challenge students to think expansively, act ethically, and lead responsibly." Inspired by this mission, Shady Side's driving purpose remains the development of responsible, transformative leaders for the City of Pittsburgh and beyond. This reason for existing was embedded at our inception, as the pioneers of the American steel industry founded a preparatory school designed to ensure next-generation leadership for what they envisioned would become the great, enduring industrial city of the 20th century. As we envision the Academy's next chapter and consider a changing world, we have the opportunity to reimagine how we deliver on this mission. Please submit a cover letter or personal statement that thoughtfully reflects your educational mission and how it aligns with our shared commitment to student wellness.