2026 Lead Teacher - San Jose

Position Summary Aim High is seeking educational professionals skilled at creating joyful teaching experiences for students and team members. This role is ideal for classroom teachers who want to stay engaged in advancing their practice, reinvigorate their passion for teaching, or expand their experience in a smaller‑class, supportive environment without academic‑year pressure. Lead Teachers play an instrumental role in delivering our summer program. In partnership with their classroom team—including a high school intern or college‑age assistant teacher and other specialists—Lead Teachers teach core classes in project‑based STEM, Humanities, or Issues & Choices, incorporating social‑emotional learning and college and career awareness. You will cultivate learning experiences that build a community of trust, stimulate brain growth, foster academic mindsets, and make learning fun. You will also provide coaching and mentorship to the classroom team as they explore and learn more about educational careers. This is a six‑week position: you will receive one week of training before the summer program and five weeks of teaching middle school students. All Aim High summer staff also have access to online training materials before the start of the summer program. Duties and Responsibilities Lead academic core classes with the support of a teaching team, assistant teacher, or high school instructional assistant. Lead lesson planning and implementation, utilize restorative practices for creating a safe learning space, and create an effective team‑teaching environment. Set and work toward teaching and leadership goals to strengthen and explore new teaching practices and participate in goal‑setting and observation cycles during the program. Mentor and support the growth of the teaching team, which involves: Co‑planning lessons and meeting learning objectives. Supporting assistant teachers in developing confidence as aspiring educators. Supporting the development of professional skills such as time management, communication, accountability, and taking initiative. Co‑lead advising groups, create a positive environment, and build relationships with students and colleagues. Lead daily/weekly check‑ins with teaching team members to successfully meet the learning needs of students, lesson planning, and classroom preparation. Collaborate with specialists (instructional coach and student support specialist). Co‑lead, plan, and support enrichment activities such as sports, city exploration, arts & crafts, etc. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications A deep commitment to Aim High’s mission, vision, purpose, and core values. A bachelor’s degree (preferred) or 4+ years of relevant work experience. Prior experience teaching and leading a K‑12 classroom or pursuing a teaching credential or graduate degree in education or related fields (youth development). Experience in culturally responsive teaching, as well as project‑based and inquiry‑based approaches to student learning. The ability to uphold and maintain confidential information. A positive, can‑do attitude with a propensity for action and efficiency. Strong attention to detail and communication skills. The ability to work independently and as a team; build and maintain productive working relationships with colleagues and students. A growth mindset along with a willingness to give and receive feedback. Responsible and demonstrate a commitment to social and racial justice, anti‑racism, and equity in education. Committed to and have experience working with underserved youth. Culturally competent and have an awareness and understanding of the communities being served. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and basic knowledge of classroom technology. Bonus points if you have dual language abilities (English‑Spanish, English‑Chinese, etc.), are an Aim High alumni, or hold a valid teaching credential. Job Details Reports to: Site Directors Location: San Jose @ACE Inspire Academy Classification: Non‑exempt from overtime; paid hourly Pay ranges from $26.00 to $37.75 per hour depending on experience Compensation for this position will be determined following the ranges listed below with additional compensation beyond the beginning of the range for employees who (1) hold a teaching credential and/or a master’s degree, (2) have prior classroom teaching experience and/or youth development work experience, and/or (3) have previously served as an Aim High Site Director or in a Specialist role: Employees in their first year as an Aim High Lead Teacher will earn $26.00 - $27.75 per hour This is a temporary, full‑time position for the six weeks of the summer program June 8 - July 17 This position is expected to work from Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm and up to two family evening events Unpaid holidays: Aim High’s summer program will be closed on Friday, June 19th and Friday, July 3rd Aim High is an equal‑opportunity employer. Aim High seeks diversity in its community and affords equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, citizenship status, medical condition, or any other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Aim High