MS Collaboratory Teacher

Job Title: Middle School Collaboratory Teacher / Experiential Learning SpecialistLocation: Middle SchoolReports To: Middle School PrincipalSubordinates: NonePosition Type: Full-Time, Exempt, 10-Month PositionSchool Year: 2026-2027Salary: Instructional Salary ScalePOSITION 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.Course Description: CollaboratoryWhere 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:Curriculum DevelopmentDesign and implement units integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies (e.g., self-awareness, relationship skills) with physical and experiential activitiesScaffold lessons to be developmentally appropriate for students in Grades 4-7 while maintaining relevance across age groupsAlign curriculum with guidance and expectations from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education where applicableFacilitation of Active ChallengesLead 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 environmentThe Debrief (Reflective Practice)Facilitate thoughtful discussions following activitiesGuide students in analyzing outcomes, identifying successes and challenges, and applying lessons to real-world contextsCross-Curricular CollaborationPartner with classroom teachers and instructional leaders to reinforce SEL themes and character educationSupport school-wide culture and community-building initiativesClassroom Culture & Student SupportBuild a high-trust, inclusive environment that encourages risk-taking and growthSupport students in developing resilience, communication skills, and self-awarenessQUALIFICATIONSRequiredBachelor'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 licensureSheltered 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 dynamicsPreferredExperience working with students in Grades 4-7Background in experiential education, outdoor education, or adventure-based learningTraining or certification in programs such as Project Adventure, Outward Bound, or similar frameworksExperience facilitating group reflection, coaching, or youth development programsCore CompetenciesFacilitation of experiential and kinesthetic learningSocial-emotional learning (SEL) integrationReflective discussion and debriefing techniquesClassroom and group managementCollaboration and communicationEquity-focused and inclusive practicesWORK 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.Important Note: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 that is compensated based on experience and is not on a salary scale. AKFCS also provides a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following:Massachusetts Teachers Retirement System (MTRS): EligibleMedical/Dental/VisionLife Insurance403(b) & ROTH403(b) with MatchDash Pass (DoorDash)YMCA DiscountsComprehensive Private Leave of Absence Program (PFML)Sick Time with Sick BankPersonal DaysHealth 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.Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School Mission