Upper Elementary Teacher

The San Francisco Friends School (SFFS), located in the heart of the Mission District in San Francisco, educates K-8 students in the tradition of Quaker learning. By example and commitment, we hope to inspire all connected with our school to work together toward a peaceful and caring society. For further information about San Francisco Friends School's beginnings, mission, and philosophy, please visit our website at www.sffriendsschool.org.

The school seeks teachers who resonate with the Friends School mission, which provides an exemplary education in a community dedicated to problem-solving, service to others, simplicity, social justice, and quiet reflection. Our Quaker mission also compels us to create a diverse and inclusive community; we seek a person who will thrive and contribute to such a community, both within and beyond the walls of the school.

Job Summary

San Francisco Friends School (SFFS) seeks an experienced Upper Elementary Teacher for the school year 2026-2027. The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of upper elementary development and demonstrates a commitment to fostering curiosity, independence, collaboration, and critical thinking in a diverse learning community.

Candidates should have a strong pedagogical background and be invested in collaborating with colleagues and working with upper elementary-aged students. Our upper elementary program embodies progressive education principles through student-centered, inquiry-based learning that honors children's growing independence and developmental needs. Teachers engage in regular collaboration, curriculum development, and pedagogical reflection with their peers, working together to create meaningful learning experiences that integrate content across disciplines and support project-based learning that helps children make connections between ideas and their world.

Rooted in Quaker values of community, equity, and reflection, the teacher will also cultivate a respectful and inclusive classroom culture that nurtures critical thinking, social-emotional growth, and student voice. The position calls for someone who is not only skilled in understanding child development and pedagogy but also deeply student-centered, flexible, and enthusiastic about engaging upper elementary students in meaningful, integrated learning.

Additional Responsibilities

• Create a classroom community grounded in clear expectations, developmental understanding, and welcoming of all students' identities and backgrounds
• Understand and be committed to the school's Quaker values and mission
• Administer and analyze assessments to differentiate instruction for diverse learners
• Integrate culturally responsive pedagogy and reflect on practice through a lens of equity and justice
• Provide encouraging feedback that supports growth and builds confidence
• Work closely with Student Learning Services, Counseling & Wellness, and outside providers to promote each child's success
• Build positive relationships with families through regular communication, conferences (in-take, late fall, and spring), informal check-ins, and participation in community events like Back to School Night
• Keep detailed and accurate records to write narrative reports and checklists
• Support and participate in school-wide events, all-school meetings, service learning, and community-building activities
• Co-write bi-weekly newsletter about grade-level curriculum and activities; share students' work for social media and Vidigami
• Supervise students during lunch and recess
• Attend annual Field Studies overnight program
• Participate in committee work
• All other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Experience teaching at the elementary level
• Bachelor's Degree in a related field
• Passion for working with elementary school students and genuine appreciation for upper elementary development
• Collaborative and creative team player
• Demonstrated knowledge of current research around teaching and learning
• A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and an ability to work with and support a diverse population of students and families
• Patience, empathy, adaptability, and ability to work with upper elementary students, parents/guardians, and faculty

Preferred Qualities

• Teaching credential or Master's Degree in education or related field
• Training in Responsive Classroom, Reader's Workshop, Writer's Workshop, and inquiry-based learning approaches
• Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish

Physical Requirements

Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, operate a computer, hand-held learning devices and other office equipment, reach with hands and arms, and must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Compensation and Benefit Summary

Competitive, exempt salary based on experience and qualifications. Excellent benefits are offered, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and matching 403(b). 

$2,886 to $6,190 per semi-monthly pay period for 24 pay periods per year ($69,250 to $148,580 annually). Placement on scale based on relevant teaching experience. This salary scale reflects the 25-26 school year and will be adjusted accordingly for the 26-27 school year.

EEO Commitment

The San Francisco Friends School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, marital status or any other category protected by law. The school also makes reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants with disabilities; candidates who need accommodations in order to apply for this position should request an accommodation as part of the submission of interest.

Employment Clearances Required

• Livescan Background
• US Employment eligibility
• TB Clearance certificate

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to the attention of Amabelle Sze.