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 impact. The organization prioritizes collaboration, inclusivity, and a trauma-informed approach to serving vulnerable populations. Employees are encouraged to engage in difficult conversations, embrace discomfort for the greater good, and contribute to an empowered, compassionate work environment.

About the Role

The Teacher position reports to the Principal and is responsible for creating a learning environment of mutual respect and fairness while fostering creative and critical thinking through an equity lens. This role involves direct teaching, curriculum customization, student progress evaluation, and planning educational activities tailored to a unique student population. The position supports Five Keys' San Francisco programs and requires maintaining a positive attitude while working with diverse groups.

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 based on student needs.
• Collaborate with special education staff to include students requiring 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.
• Adhere to Five Keys policies, procedures, and partner guidelines.
• Demonstrate preparation and skill in working with students from diverse cultural, economic, and ability 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, differentiating lessons for online and in-person settings.
• Adapt teaching pedagogy to meet the needs of a diverse student population.
• Maintain compliance systems to ensure student records are updated on time.
• Support accelerated learning outcomes, including maintaining 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 action in the best interest of students, even in unfamiliar situations.
• Exhibit self-reflection, owning both positive and negative outcomes.
• Respond to and implement constructive feedback effectively.
• Communicate 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 to build trusting relationships.
• Engage families in academic and behavioral goals, transparently sharing student progress.

Requirements

• 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.
• Previous teaching experience preferred.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices in education.
• Basic technology skills and willingness to learn new IT systems and software.
• Ability to interact with students using a trauma-informed approach.
• Moderate to extensive physical and emotional stamina.
• Ability to travel to multiple sites as required.
• Frequent and prolonged standing, walking, and sitting.
• Frequent talking and hearing conversations.
• Occasional reaching with hands and arms and lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to follow oral directions in emergency situations.

Additional Requirements

• Satisfactory results of a Live Scan (criminal background investigation).
• Jail clearance for positions working in county jails or probation locations (if applicable).
• Proof of clear TB results dated within 60 days prior to hire.

Work Environment

• Willingness to travel statewide to various locations or meetings as needed.
• Moderate to high noise levels; work environment varies by site.
• Potential personal safety risks when working in underserved communities.
• Must wear provided PPE and adhere to all safety guidelines when required.

Schedule

Temporarily for the 2026-2027 school year, this position will work 7 hours per day, 35 hours per week, with 195 working days annually. The current schedule is 8:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Based on organizational needs, the schedule may revert to 6.5 hours per day, 32.5 hours per week, with 210 working days annually. Scheduled hours may vary from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Benefits

• Low monthly costs for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous time off.
• 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.