26-27 SY First Grade Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

26-27 SY First Grade Teacher

Posted:  October 12, 2026

Location: Creative Inspiration Journey School (CIJS), 2030 Old Hickory Tree Rd, St Cloud, FL 34772

Salary:

• Minimum Amount: $43,150.00 (Non-certified base + $4,800 Medical stipend)
• Maximum Amount: $57,105.00 (Certified base + $4,800 Medical stipend + $500 ESOL + $2,500 Master's)

Job Type: Full Time (Comprehensive Benefits Package Included)

Reports To: Principal or Campus Administrator

JOIN US!

We are seeking a reflective, dedicated, and passionate First Grade Teacher to serve as an instructional leader in our primary elementary classrooms. Partner with SMART Management and Creative Inspiration Journey School (CIJS) in our mission to deliver an inquiry-based, Reggio-inspired academic experience enriched by project-based learning, hands-on exploration, and a strong commitment to student growth.

HIGHLIGHTS OF A TEACHING CAREER AT CIJS

• Reggio-Inspired Environment: Teach in an innovative setting that combines structured foundational academics with the Reggio Emilia Approach, fostering curiosity, self-discovery, and student-led project work.

• Interdisciplinary Learning: Implement hands-on literacy, math, and STEM centers where subjects are integrated naturally through real-world investigations and studio-based exploration.

• Collaborative & Growth-Oriented: Join a supportive network of charter schools across Florida with active instructional coaching, dedicated planning time, and ongoing professional development.

OUR TEAM AND WHAT WE ARE ABOUT

At SMART Management and Creative Inspiration Journey School, we are guided by a bold, student-centered mission and lived core values:

• "And How Are the Children?": Every decision we make prioritizes student learning, safety, and well-being.

• Big Rocks First: We maintain an unrelenting focus on instructional quality, foundational literacy, and critical thinking above all else.

• Own It & Expect More: We take full accountability for classroom results while holding exceptionally high expectations for every child’s potential.

• Results Matter: We use data thoughtfully to reflect, adjust instruction, and ensure every scholar masters early learning standards.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Inquiry & Project-Based Instruction: Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned primary lessons that weave foundational reading, writing, and math into hands-on Reggio-inspired projects and interactive learning studios.

• Classroom Culture: Establish consistent routines and implement schoolwide behavior systems with fidelity, creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where young scholars co-construct knowledge.

• Student Support: Differentiate instruction for diverse learners (ESE, 504, ELL, and intervention) by implementing required accommodations and modifications.

• Family Partnership: Actively engage families as true partners in learning through regular documentation of student growth and open communication.

• Professional Responsibilities: Submit lesson plans, student data, and compliance documentation on time; actively participate in weekly PD, grade-level check-ins, and coaching sessions.

MEASURABLE YEAR 1 SUCCESS METRICS

• 70%+ of scholars demonstrate grade-level mastery in early reading and mathematics standards.

• Classroom culture aligns with schoolwide primary behavior expectations with minimal discipline referrals.

• Achieve "Highly Effective" ratings on professionalism indicators (punctuality, timely lesson plan and data submissions).

KEY QUALIFICATIONSRequired:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited educational institution.

• Certification: Valid or eligible Florida Teaching Certification in Prekindergarten/Primary Education (Age 3–Grade 3) or Elementary Education (K–6).

• Mindset: Alignment with SMART Management and CIJS's Reggio-inspired philosophy, mission, and values.

• Compliance: Successful completion of a Level 2 background screening through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Preferred:

• Prior instructional experience teaching First Grade or primary elementary grades in a project-based or Reggio-inspired setting.

• Florida ESOL Endorsement and/or Reading Endorsement.

• Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field (eligible for salary supplement).

APPLY TODAY!

Take the first step by applying through our quick, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to connecting with you and learning about your passion for early childhood education at Creative Inspiration Journey School. Submit your application for the 2026-27 school year today!