Jobs · Education · New York

Social Studies Teacher (7th & 8th grade)

Erie 1 BOCES · Buffalo, NY · Today
EducationFull-time

Reports to: Principal/Designee

About the role

The Grades 7-12 Social Studies Teacher is responsible for fostering a deep understanding of history, civics, geography, economics, and culture in a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. This educator will design and deliver engaging, curriculum-aligned lessons that develop students' critical thinking, historical inquiry, and literacy skills. By creating a supportive classroom culture, the teacher will inspire students to become informed, active, and empathetic global citizens, while preparing them for academic success and future civic engagement.

Responsibilities

  • Plan, prepare, and execute rigorous, standards-based daily lessons that accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the 7-12 grade spectrum.
  • Utilize a variety of instructional strategies—such as source analysis, structured debates, and collaborative projects—to encourage critical thinking and active student participation.
  • Design and administer both formative and summative assessments, utilizing the resulting data to differentiate instruction and provide timely, constructive feedback.
  • Establish and maintain a positive, well-managed classroom environment rooted in mutual respect and high expectations.
  • Collaborate with department colleagues, interdisciplinary teams, and school administration to align curricula, share best practices, and support school-wide initiatives.
  • Maintain open and proactive communication with parents and guardians regarding student achievement and behavior.
  • Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current with educational trends and historical scholarship.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in History, Social Studies Education, Political Science, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Valid state teaching credential/license in Secondary Social Studies (Grades 7-12).
  • Prior student teaching or professional classroom experience at the middle or high school level is highly desirable.
  • Clean background check and compliance with all state/district employment requirements.

Skills

  • Learning Management Systems (LMS): Proficiency with platforms like Google Classroom, Canvas, or Schoology.
  • Educational Technology: Ability to integrate interactive tools (e.g., Nearpod, Kahoot, Edpuzzle, Quizizz) into daily instruction.
  • Data & Grading: Competency in using digital gradebooks and student information systems (e.g., PowerSchool, Infinite Campus) to track and analyze student performance.
  • Productivity Suites: Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Sheets).
  • Classroom Management: Proven ability to maintain a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment for adolescents.
  • Differentiated Instruction: Skill in modifying lessons to support English Language Learners (ELL), students with IEPs/504 plans, and advanced learners.
  • Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for interacting with students, parents, and colleagues.
  • Cultural Competency: Sensitivity and responsiveness to diverse student backgrounds, fostering an inclusive classroom that respects multiple perspectives.
  • Critical Thinking Inquiry: Ability to teach students how to evaluate primary and secondary sources, detect bias, and construct evidence-based arguments.

Pay

Competitive salary range: $36,000 – $42,000 per year.

Schedule

Full-time, permanent position.

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