Lead Teacher, Elementary K-2 (PA I ES)

Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) Promise Academy—top-performing K-12 charter schools within HCZ's cradle-to-career pathway of comprehensive services—seeks an Elementary School Lead Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. The ideal candidate cares deeply about children, respects the culture of Harlem's residents, and is eager to make an impact in our community and beyond.

About the Role

At Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ), our mission is to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and unlock new possibilities for our children, families, and communities. As the K-12 charter school within HCZ's cradle-to-career pathway, Promise Academy delivers exceptional education alongside holistic support—empowering young minds, inspiring potential, and creating lasting change. By joining, you become part of a transformative movement dedicated to shaping brighter futures and driving extraordinary outcomes for those we serve.

We're seeking an Elementary School Teacher who shares our goal: to get all our scholars to and through college.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement dynamic, standards-aligned lesson plans that inspire curiosity and foster mastery of grade-level content
• Assess student progress using a variety of methods—exams, projects, and written work—to personalize instruction and ensure continuous growth
• Establish and maintain high academic and behavioral standards, motivating all students to achieve their best
• Utilize diverse teaching strategies, including direct instruction, hands-on projects, and group activities, to engage and challenge students
• Collaborate with teaching assistants and fellow educators to meet individual student needs and create a supportive learning community
• Build strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues to foster a culture of trust, communication, and academic success

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• Valid New York State Teaching Certification in Early Childhood Education or General Education (Birth-2nd, 1st-6th, or All Grades)
• Minimum of 2 years teaching experience in an urban school setting

Schedule

• 10-month school year
• Must be available to work flexible hours (after hours, weekends, and holidays as needed)

Benefits

• Highly competitive base salaries
• Up to $30,000 in Student Loan Forgiveness
• $6,000 sign-on bonus after 90 days of employment
• Paid time off
• Employee referral bonus
• Career advancement opportunities
• No-cost health insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short- and long-term disability
• Additional voluntary benefits
• Wellness discounts
• Commuter benefits
• Financial wellness perks
• Discounts on flights, hotels, theme parks, concert tickets, and more

Teachers receive a personal laptop, Smartboards, and tablets; bi-weekly professional development; and the support of a team of academic coaches, deans, guidance counselors, and social workers.

Pay

The Lead Teacher salary ranges from $70,000 - $130,000. Salaries are determined based on years of relevant experience, certification, and education level.