Laboratory Schools: History Teacher, High School, Part-Time

About the Department

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, founded in 1896 by John Dewey, offers a world-class educational journey for students in Nursery through Grade 12. Lab is recognized for academic rigor, experiential learning, and intellectual discourse, with educators known for excellence and innovation in teaching. Students benefit from unparalleled resources and partnerships with the University of Chicago. The Lab community values curiosity, inquiry, creativity, diversity, and kindness, with 53-59% of students identifying as students of color and families speaking nearly 40 different languages. Inclusion is a fundamental value, celebrating all aspects of community members' identities and fostering respect and civility.

Lab seeks employees who thrive in an educational environment, offering a collaborative and growth-oriented professional home. Faculty, staff, and administrators enjoy unique benefits and opportunities through the University connection.

About the Role

History teachers develop and execute engaging lesson plans, fostering critical and independent thinking. Candidates should emphasize primary sources, analytical research paper skills, and adapt instruction to various learning styles. The History Department serves grades 9-12, teaching courses such as Worlds of Asia, African-American, American, Early World, European, Modern World, and World History, along with several electives. Teachers report to their respective Principals and the History Department Chair.

The high school maintains separate History and English departments, while the middle school supports a combined Humanities department. The school is expanding interdisciplinary programming and values teachers who collaborate across departments and divisions. Ideal candidates will demonstrate optimism, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to Lab’s mission of creating an engaging and inclusive school culture.

Anticipated start date: September 1, 2026. All teachers are expected to adhere to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement regarding workdays.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement curriculum, lesson plans, and assessment tools.
• Supervise students in and out of the classroom, employing up-to-date teaching techniques.
• Build deep relationships with students, families, faculty, and staff to communicate student progress and foster community.
• Adapt to changing circumstances and maintain flexibility in working with students.
• Collaborate with colleagues across departments and divisions to support interdisciplinary programming.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in history or a related field (required).
• Master’s degree in history or a related field (preferred).
• Coursework or degree reflecting multicultural content (preferred).
• Minimum of three years of middle school or high school teaching experience.
• Experience teaching any grade level of history (required).
• Experience teaching middle school Humanities (preferred).
• Background in developing curriculum (strongly preferred).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of history subject matter and instructional methodologies.
• Understanding of child development.
• Ability to develop curricula, lesson plans, and assessment tools.
• Problem-solving, analytical, and computational skills.
• Organizational skills, attention to detail, and decision-making abilities.
• Adaptability and flexibility in changing circumstances.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students, and parents.
• Knowledge of diversity and inclusion issues in the classroom and relationship-building.
• Creativity and strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Manage stressful situations and maintain confidentiality.
• Work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet deadlines.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Move in and around the classroom and building to interact with students and community members.
• Move class-related equipment/tools as needed.
• Escort children between classrooms, during arrival/dismissal, and in emergencies.
• Demonstrate lessons when appropriate.

Schedule

This is a part-time position of approximately 20 hours per week.

Pay

Pay range: $37,484.00 - $83,322.50 per year (salary).

Benefits

Eligible employees receive a wide range of benefits, including health, retirement, and paid time off.