Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher - NYC

Job Description

Job Description

Follow your passion

Are you ready to lead the next chapter of educational excellence? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

We currently operate multiple elementary and middle schools across the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens , and continue to grow - opening 1–2 new schools each year, because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. As part of this organizational expansion, we are also preparing to welcome our first-ever Zeta High School class of 9th graders in the 2026-27 school year, a milestone that marks the next chapter in our mission to provide a world-class, PreK-12 pathway. Join our growing team today and be a change agent for children.

To achieve our vision, we are searching for Middle School English (ELA) Teachers with a Bachelor's degree and at least 1-2+ years of lead teaching experience (NY certification preferred), with a proven record of propelling extraordinary student growth.

Responsibilities:

• Plan inquiry-driven, academically rigorous ELA lessons that spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and empower all students to engage meaningfully with learning.
• Build a vibrant, inclusive classroom culture that nurtures a genuine love of learning and strengthens the sense of community among students and families.
• Internalize and deeply master Zeta's academic and social-emotional curriculum , developing the skills and knowledge to deliver exceptional instruction each day.
• Champion Zeta's ambitious academic goals —including ensuring that 90%+ of students achieve on or above grade level in ELA —and work relentlessly to help every student reach those outcomes.
• Utilize data, student work, and research-based resources to drive student achievement and continuously refine your teaching practice.
• Develop strong, authentic relationships with students and families to support each child's academic growth and personal development.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues and engage in weekly professional learning , embracing coaching and feedback as you grow into a highly effective educator.

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child-like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child. Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private sector experience. At Zeta:

• We are passionate about our mission of providing world-class education to all students
• We bring a mindset of growth, flexibility, and openness to feedback
• We are hungry and determined to not only meet our goals, but surpass them
• We are humble, willing to put the team's needs ahead of our own, and committed to contributing to a collaborative work environment
• We have a high bar for excellence and sweat over the details
• We are caring and put team over individual at all times

We are hiring for the 2026–2027 school year, with a start date of July 27, 2026. The salary range for this position is between $66,500 and $115,500. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary closer to the beginning of the range, depending on relevant experience, certification status, and internal equity. Compensation is based on our salary scales.

Zeta offers a relocation reimbursement of up to $2,500 for eligible Teachers relocating to join our school community.

We offer great benefits:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings
• Competitive compensation

We provide awesome perks:

• Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses (gym memberships, salon appointments, concerts – it's up to you!)
• 4 live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace and free Headspace subscription
• MacBook Air and specified monthly reimbursement for use of a mobile phone
• Fully stocked teacher workrooms with favorite snacks and Nespresso machine
• Zeta swag, team outings, and NYC's finest sweet treats
• Books for professional development

We care deeply about your personal and professional growth:

• Clear pathway to professional growth
• Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates
• Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
• Interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).