MS PE/Health (MEETS SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING)

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. MS PE/Health (MEETS SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING) FT Eligible Personal & Sick Only Worcester, MA, US Job Title: Middle School Collaboratory Teacher / Experiential Learning Specialist Location: Middle School Reports To: Middle School Principal School Year: 2026-2027 Salary: Instructional Salary Scale

POSITION SUMMARY

The Middle School Collaboratory Teacher / Experiential Learning Specialist designs and leads a dynamic special area course that blends movement‑based learning with social‑emotional skill development. This educator creates a safe, high‑trust environment where students engage in kinesthetic challenges, collaborative problem‑solving, and reflective discussions. A hallmark of this role is the ability to facilitate meaningful “debriefs,” guiding students to extract transferable life lessons from physical and experiential learning tasks. The ideal candidate is skilled at fostering engagement, managing productive struggle, and building a culture where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth. This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of this position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Where thinking meets doing. Collaboratory takes students out of their desks and into the “active zone.” Through movement‑based, project‑oriented units, students develop effective communication, teamwork, and creative problem‑solving skills. Inspired by adventure‑based and experiential learning models, students navigate physical and intellectual challenges that encourage resilience, reflection, and collaboration. This is not a traditional physical education class—it is a laboratory for learning how to navigate social, academic, and group environments within school and beyond.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Design and implement units integrating Social‑Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies (e.g., self‑awareness, relationship skills) with physical and experiential activities. Scaffold lessons to be developmentally appropriate for students in Grades 4–7 while maintaining relevance across age groups. Align curriculum with guidance and expectations from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education where applicable. Lead structured, non competitive, kinesthetic activities that promote teamwork and problem‑solving (e.g., group challenges, initiative games, low‑ropes‑style elements). Establish and maintain a physically and emotionally safe learning environment. Facilitate thoughtful discussions following activities, guiding students in analyzing outcomes, identifying successes and challenges, and applying lessons to real‑world contexts. Partner with classroom teachers and instructional leaders to reinforce SEL themes and character education. Support school‑wide culture and community‑building initiatives. Build a high‑trust, inclusive environment that encourages risk‑taking and growth. Support students in developing resilience, communication skills, and self‑awareness.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Bachelor’s degree in Education, Outdoor Education, Psychology, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred. Valid Massachusetts teaching license appropriate to the role (e.g., Elementary [1–6], Moderate Disabilities, Physical Education, or related field) issued by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, or eligibility to obtain licensure. Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement required (or ability to obtain within one year of hire, in accordance with Massachusetts regulations). Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and ability to manage group dynamics. Preferred Experience working with students in Grades 4–7. Background in experiential education, outdoor education, or adventure‑based learning. Training or certification in programs such as Project Adventure, Outward Bound, or similar frameworks. Experience facilitating group reflection, coaching, or youth development programs. Core Competencies Facilitation of experiential and kinesthetic learning Social‑emotional learning (SEL) integration Reflective discussion and debriefing techniques Classroom and group management Collaboration and communication Equity‑focused and inclusive practices

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position operates in a school and office setting. Some travel between schools may be required. Occasional evening and weekend events for Board of Trustee meetings, parent meetings, college nights, academic and/or athletic events, or professional development may be necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Active role requiring movement, facilitation of physical activities, and supervision of students in varied settings (indoor and outdoor). Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and perform repetitive motions. Frequent bending, crouching, stooping, and stretching. Standing or walking for the entirety of an 8‑hour shift. Must be able to work in a fast‑paced environment requiring multitasking and attention to detail. Applicants who are hired for this position and are found to have provided falsified or inaccurate information during the application process are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Compensation and Benefits Full‑time, exempt, annual position compensated based on experience and is not on a salary scale. Massachusetts Teachers Retirement System (MTRS): Eligible. Life Insurance. 403(b) & ROTH403(b) with Match. YMCA Discounts. Comprehensive Private Leave of Absence Program (PFML). Sick Time with Sick Bank. Personal Days. Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) & Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Abby Kelley Foster Public Charter School is an affirmative action employer, ensuring that its programs and facilities are accessible to the public. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, religion, disability, gender identity, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related medical conditions, national origin, homelessness, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other status or class protected by state or federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Abby Kelley Foster School