Middle School Design and Maker Space Teacher

Starting in the 2026-2027 Academic Year

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 a passionate and creative Middle School Design and Maker Space Teacher to inspire students in grades 5–8 through hands-on learning, innovation, and design thinking. The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of project-based learning, engineering principles, and digital fabrication, along with a commitment to fostering curiosity, collaboration, and resilience in a diverse learning community.

This educator will lead classes in the school’s fully equipped maker space, guiding students through design challenges that integrate STEAM disciplines, craftsmanship, and real-world problem-solving. The teacher will collaborate with colleagues across subjects to support interdisciplinary projects and ensure that making and designing are central to the school’s experiential approach to education.

Rooted in Quaker values of community, equity, and reflection, the teacher will also cultivate a respectful and inclusive classroom culture that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and student voice. The position calls for someone who is not only technically skilled but also deeply student-centered, flexible, and enthusiastic about engaging middle schoolers in meaningful, imaginative work.

Responsibilities:

Design/Maker Space Courses

• Teach semester-long design/maker classes to 5th and 6th-grade students, focusing on foundational skills in design thinking, digital and analog fabrication, engineering, and creative problem-solving.
• Teach trimester-long electives to 7th and 8th-grade students that build on core skills and allow for deeper exploration into areas such as robotics, electronics, coding, woodworking, sustainable design, or other innovative topics.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and inclusive maker space environment that encourages creativity, experimentation, and responsible tool use.
• Manage tools, materials, and technology resources; ensure safety protocols and effective student training on equipment.

Duties and Responsibilities Outside of the Department

• Serve as a middle school advisor, supporting a small group of students academically, socially, and emotionally throughout the school year. Facilitate three weekly advisory meetings, student-led conferences, and family communication, fostering a strong sense of belonging and a growth mindset.
• Collaborate with fellow middle school teachers to plan interdisciplinary units and projects that integrate maker-centered learning across subjects
• Support and participate in school-wide events, service learning, and community-building activities and events.
• Contribute to the life of the middle school through participation in team meetings and professional development.
• Foster a classroom culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming of all students’ identities and backgrounds.
• Integrate culturally responsive pedagogy and reflect on teaching practice through the lens of equity and justice.
• Attend annual Field Studies overnight program

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher, in design or related field preferred 
• Late elementary, middle school, or early high school teaching experience, and love and appreciation for middle school
• Knowledge of current pedagogy and facility with hands-on and project-based instruction
• Alignment with the school’s mission and openness to Quaker philosophy
• Highly collaborative and creative team player
• A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusio,n and an ability to work with and support a diverse population of students and families.
• Patience, empathy, adaptability, and ability to work with students, parents, and faculty

Preferred Qualities

• Teaching credential or Master’s Degree
• Advanced degree in a design-related field
• Knowledge of current pedagogy and facility with hands-on and project-based instruction
• Has experience working with students with learning differences and has the ability to work and differentiate within the classroom
• Language skills in Spanish

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:

• SB 848 Authorization and Reference Checking
• Livescan Background
• US Employment Eligibility
• TB Clearance certificate

Application Deadline: Wednesday, January 7th, 2026