First Grade Teacher - St Thomas the Apostle - Hyde Park

This position is for the 2026-2027 school year. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced educator for our First-grade classroom. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Active Playful Learning, 21st Century learning, and a student-centered philosophy, and should be excited to explore the future direction of teaching and learning in light of the evolving impact of AI and mid-21st century needs.

About the Role

As a teacher in a Catholic school, you act as a representative of the Catholic Church to students, both as a role model and through assigned tasks and responsibilities. The Teacher is a ministerial employee due to their role as a representative of the Church and a communicator of its message. You will be hired by and directly accountable to the principal, agreeing to abide by the educational policies and procedures of the Archdiocese of Chicago, the Office of Catholic Schools, and the local school. The Teacher cooperates with the principal and staff to provide an educational environment that promotes the ministry of Catholic education and represents the Archbishop of Chicago in effectuating his ministry of Catholic education and religious teachings.

Responsibilities

• Teach and act in accordance with Catholic doctrinal and moral teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Act as a role model for the religious formation of students and as a representative of the Archbishop of Chicago and the Catholic Church.
• Know, teach, and act consistently in accordance with the religious and educational mission, philosophy, objectives, and policies of the Catholic school.
• Complete Catholic identity formation training and other required professional development from the Archdiocese of Chicago (regardless of grade/subject area or personal faith tradition).
• Lead and/or participate in religious instruction, ceremonies, rituals, or other religious activities as directed by the principal.
• Communicate regularly with students, parents/guardians, colleagues, and the principal.
• Participate in professional development programs required by the Archdiocese of Chicago and/or the local school/parish.
• Perform teaching duties as assigned by the principal.
• Attend required faculty and staff meetings.
• Cooperate with the principal and staff in school-related meetings, activities, and projects.
• Maintain accurate student attendance and academic records.
• Maintain a safe, orderly, and secure learning and working environment.
• Participate in the annual performance review.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding school personnel, students, and general school matters.
• Positively represent the school/parish at all school/parish events (including extracurricular activities) and in the general public.
• Complete specific tasks assigned by the principal essential to the function of the position.

Requirements

• Practicing Catholic (preferred, required for religion teachers).
• Must meet compliance with safe environment requirements.
• Must hold a Bachelor’s degree.
• Must have valid state licensure for the grade/subject area (preferred, not required).
• Must complete Catholic identity formation training.

The following documentation is required to be uploaded/submitted with the application for employment:

• Transcripts
• Resume
• Teaching Licensure (PEL), if applicable/obtained
• Acceptance in alternative licensure program, if applicable
• Professional references

Pay

This position has a salary range of $38,527–$68,776 for a Lay employee and $35,686–$62,316 for a religious employee. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on factors including relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.

Benefits

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here.