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 the development of new housing and support programs. Five Keys aims to uplift communities by providing essential resources like education, housing, and employment.

At Five Keys, culture is central to everything we do. The organization is committed to building an inclusive culture that values collaboration, compassion, and a trauma-informed approach. Employees are encouraged to engage in difficult conversations to drive positive change and create an environment where everyone can thrive.

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, customizing curriculum for a unique student population, evaluating student progress, and planning educational activities. The position supports Five Keys San Mateo Programs.

The current schedule is 8:00 am to 3:30 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.
• Engage in cycles of data-driven instruction to personalize learning and meet student needs.
• Collaborate with special education staff to include students needing extra support.
• Provide individualized educational planning to help students meet their goals.
• Maintain confidentiality of student and staff information.
• Ensure classroom coverage during staff absences.
• Abide by all Five Keys policies and partner guidelines.
• Maintain effective working relationships with partners.
• Demonstrate preparation and skill in working with students from diverse backgrounds using a trauma-informed approach.
• Teach CCSS-aligned courses in subjects such as science, biology, English, social studies, mathematics, and fine arts.
• Use a trauma-informed approach to support student success and adjust teaching strategies as needed.
• Maintain classroom management to ensure a safe learning environment.
• Instruct students using a hybrid learning approach (online and in-person).
• Differentiate lessons and utilize effective teaching strategies to support student success.
• Adapt teaching pedagogy to meet the needs of a diverse student population.
• Maintain systems of compliance for student records and ensure timely updates.
• Support students with accelerated learning outcomes and maintain monthly progress reports.
• Utilize formative and summative assessments to identify and address student growth areas.
• Commit to professional growth and attend all professional development meetings.
• Take urgent and courageous actions in the best interest of students.
• Exhibit self-reflection, own outcomes, and respond to constructive feedback.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive staff culture.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to provide consistent student support.
• Partner with students and families through frequent communication and build trusting relationships.
• Engage families in academic and behavioral goals and transparently share student progress.

Requirements

• Previous teaching experience preferred.
• Must have a valid K-12 California Teaching Credential (preliminary or clear, intern credentials 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.
• Basic technology knowledge and willingness to learn new IT systems and software.

Skills

• Capacity to communicate effectively and collaborate with others.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a dynamic learning mindset.
• High level of cultural and social awareness.
• Ability to work well under pressure and maintain appropriate boundaries.
• High degree of emotional intelligence.

Physical Requirements

• Must wear provided PPE and adhere to safety guidelines.
• 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

• Satisfactory results of a Live Scan (criminal background investigation).
• Successfully obtaining jail clearance for positions working in county jails or probation locations.
• Submitting proof of clear TB results (dated within 60 days prior to hire).

Work Environment

• Willingness and ability to travel statewide to various locations or meetings as needed.
• Moderate to high noise level.
• Work environment varies from site to site.
• Some personal safety risk working in underserved communities.

Benefits

• Very low monthly costs for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous time off.
• Various pre-tax flexible spending accounts and retirement account 403(b).
• Annual reimbursements up to $100 for gym membership, 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.

Growth Opportunities

Five Keys is committed to providing ongoing professional development opportunities, including conferences, staff development training, and coaching plans. These opportunities allow employees to grow into new positions within and across programs, such as schools, housing, and other initiatives.