Spanish GED/ELD/Gen Ed Teacher

About the Organization

Five Keys is a nonprofit organization that operates an extensive network of programs across California, with a presence in 14 counties and over 120 locations. The organization focuses on empowering individuals and families to overcome poverty and inequity through initiatives such as public charter schools, restorative justice programs in jails and prisons, shelters, permanent supportive housing, and new housing and support programs. Five Keys aims to uplift communities by providing essential resources like education, housing, employment, and tools for sustained progress.

At Five Keys, culture is central to our impact. We prioritize collaboration over hierarchy, fostering an inclusive environment where teams are empowered. Our work with vulnerable populations demands compassion, patience, and a trauma-informed approach. We encourage difficult conversations to drive positive change and create a more equitable world.

About the Role

The Teacher position reports to the Principal and is responsible for creating a learning environment of mutual respect and fairness while encouraging creative and critical thinking through an equity lens. This role involves providing direct instruction, grading assignments, customizing curriculum for a unique student population, evaluating student progress, and planning educational activities. The position supports students in developing academic and life skills that extend beyond graduation. A positive attitude and the ability to engage a diverse group of students are essential.

This position supports Five Keys San Francisco Programs. The scheduled hours vary from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm; the current schedule is 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Temporarily for the 2026-2027 school year, this position will work 7 hours per day, 35 hours per week, with 195 working days annually. Based on organizational needs, the schedule may revert to 6.5 hours per day, 32.5 hours per week, with 210 working days annually.

Responsibilities

• Build a classroom culture of excellence and deliver rigorous instruction by developing content expertise in core curriculum, captured in units of study and daily plans.
• Engage in cycles of data-driven instruction to personalize learning and meet student needs.
• Collaborate with special education staff to ensure meaningful inclusion for students requiring extra support.
• Provide individualized educational planning to help students meet their goals.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student and staff information.
• Ensure classroom coverage in the event of illness or time off.
• Abide by all Five Keys policies and procedures and adhere to partner guidelines.
• Maintain effective working relationships with partners.
• Demonstrate preparation and skill in working with students of all ages, from diverse cultural, economic, and ability backgrounds.
• Interact with students using a trauma-informed approach.
• Teach CCSS-aligned courses in subjects such as science, biology, English, social studies, mathematics, fine arts, and other relevant electives.
• Use a trauma-informed approach to support and encourage student success, adjusting teaching strategies as needed.
• Maintain classroom management to ensure a safe learning environment.
• Instruct students using a hybrid learning approach, differentiating lessons for both online and in-person instruction.
• Adapt teaching pedagogy to meet the needs of a diverse student population across various settings, including one-on-one, small group, and whole class instruction.
• Maintain systems of compliance to ensure student records are updated on time and in accordance with state and school standards.
• Support students with accelerated learning outcomes, including maintaining monthly progress reports.
• Utilize, collect, and analyze rigorous, student-engaged assessments (formative and summative) to address areas of growth and mastery.
• Commit to professional growth and attend all professional development meetings, which may extend beyond regular school hours.
• Take urgent and courageous actions in the best interest of students, even when unfamiliar or challenging.
• Meet all professional obligations and proactively communicate changes.
• Exhibit honest and humble self-reflection, owning both positive and negative outcomes.
• Respond effectively to and implement constructive feedback.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive staff culture.
• Collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure consistent and well-coordinated support for students.
• Partner with students and families through frequent communication, building trusting relationships and embracing parents as their student’s first teacher.
• Build authentic relationships with families to support student success, sharing progress transparently to address both successes and challenges.

Qualifications

• Previous teaching experience preferred.
• Must have a valid K-12 California Teaching Credential (preliminary or clear; intern credentials will be considered). Preferred: Single Subject K-12 Credential. Acceptable: Multiple Subject Credential. Not acceptable: CTE, Adult Education, Emergency, or Substitute Credentials/Permits.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices in education.
• Effective methodology and techniques to ensure student success and graduation.
• Basic technology knowledge and willingness to learn new IT systems and software.

Skills

• Capacity to communicate effectively and collaborate while building positive relationships.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a dynamic learning mindset.
• Commitment to a high level of cultural and social awareness.
• Ability to work well under pressure, observe appropriate boundaries, and operate with emotional intelligence.

Benefits

• Very low monthly costs for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous time off.
• Various pre-tax flexible spending accounts and a retirement account (403(b)).
• Annual reimbursements up to $100 for gym memberships, smoking cessation, and weight loss programs.
• Annual reimbursements up to $50 for athletic event participation and massages.
• Company-paid benefits, including free wellness-related apps, an Employee Assistance Program, and a comprehensive mental health care platform for employees and dependents.

Physical Requirements

• Must wear provided PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and adhere to all safety guidelines when needed.
• Moderate to extensive physical and emotional stamina.
• Travel to multiple sites may be required.
• Frequent and prolonged standing, walking, and sitting.
• Frequent talking and hearing conversations.
• Occasional reaching with hands and arms.
• Occasionally lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to follow oral directions in emergency situations.

Additional Requirements

• This position is contingent upon satisfactory results of a Live Scan (criminal background investigation).
• Must successfully obtain jail clearance for positions working in county jails or probation locations.
• Must submit proof of clear TB results (dated within 60 days prior to hire).

Work Environment

• Must be willing and able to travel statewide to various locations or meetings as needed.
• Moderate to high noise levels; work environment varies by site.
• Some personal safety risk when working in underserved communities.

Growth Opportunities

At Five Keys, we are committed to providing ongoing professional development opportunities for all employees. These include conferences, staff development training, and coaching plans that allow employees to grow into new positions within and across programs (e.g., schools, housing).