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, and employment.

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.

Core Competencies

• Effective communication and collaboration
• Strong problem-solving skills and a dynamic learning mindset
• High level of cultural and social awareness
• Ability to work well under pressure with emotional intelligence
• Commitment to maintaining appropriate boundaries

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. Responsibilities include direct teaching, grading assignments, customizing curriculum for a unique student population, evaluating student progress, and planning educational activities. This role supports the Five Keys Los Angeles Academic Program.

Responsibilities

Instruction

• Teach CCSS-aligned courses in subjects such as science, biology, English, social studies, mathematics, fine arts, and 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 online and in-person instruction.
• Adapt teaching pedagogy to meet the needs of a diverse student population across various settings (one-on-one, small group, whole class).

Assessment

• 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 formative and summative assessments to identify and address student growth areas.

School Culture

• Commit to professional growth and skill development.
• Attend professional development meetings and opportunities that may extend beyond regular school hours.
• Take urgent and courageous actions in the best interest of students.
• Meet professional obligations and communicate proactively about changes.
• Exhibit 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 stakeholders to ensure consistent and coordinated student support.

Student and Parent Partnership

• Partner with students and families through frequent communication, building trusting relationships.
• Engage with families on academic and behavioral goals, transparently sharing student progress.

Additional Duties

• Build a classroom culture of excellence and deliver rigorous instruction.
• Engage in data-driven instruction to personalize learning.
• 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, procedures, and partner guidelines.
• Maintain effective working relationships with partners.
• Demonstrate preparation and skill in working with students from diverse backgrounds.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

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.

Physical Requirements

• Must wear provided PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) 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.

Work Environment

• Willingness and ability 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.

Additional Requirements

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

Schedule

Hours vary from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. The current schedule is 7:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday through Friday. For the 2026-2027 school year, this position will work 7 hours per day, 35 hours per week, with 195 working days annually. The schedule may revert to 6.5 hours per day, 32.5 hours per week, with 210 working days annually based on organizational needs.

Benefits

• 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 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 (e.g., schools, housing).