Social Studies Teacher (Grades 9–12)

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Employment Type: Full-Time | Certified Position (Bachelors degree at minimum)

Position Overview
Rooted School is seeking an engaging and inquiry-driven Social Studies Teacher to support the development of critical thinking, civic engagement, and content mastery in students in grades 9–12. This educator will play a critical role in delivering rigorous, standards-aligned instruction that prepares students for success in college, career, and civic life, while aligning to LEAP assessment expectations and project-based learning outcomes.

This position requires a Louisiana teaching certificate in Social Studies (U.S. History, Civics, World Geography, or related field) or eligibility to obtain one (bachelorʻs degree). 

Key Responsibilities

Instructional Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality social studies instruction aligned to Louisiana Student Standards for Social Studies

• Design engaging lessons that promote critical thinking, historical analysis, and real-world connections

• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners, including students receiving special education and EL services

• Incorporate primary and secondary sources, discussion, writing, and inquiry-based learning into instruction

• Design and administer formative and summative assessments to measure student progress

• Develop high-quality projects for project-based learning that allow students to demonstrate understanding through authentic, real-world tasks

• Align instruction and assessments to the content and rigor of LEAP, Louisiana’s annual state assessment
  
  

Civic Engagement and Skill Building

• Foster a classroom environment that encourages civic awareness, critical inquiry, and respectful discourse

• Support students in developing skills in argumentation, evidence-based reasoning, and analytical writing

• Provide targeted support and interventions for students needing additional academic assistance

Collaboration and Leadership

• Work closely with instructional teammates to develop cross-curricular units and align instruction

• Actively participate in data analysis and professional learning communities to improve instruction

• Communicate regularly with families about student progress and celebrate student achievement

• Contribute to a strong, positive school culture rooted in high expectations, restorative practices, and mutual respect

Required Qualifications

• Valid Louisiana teaching certification in Social Studies (or eligibility to obtain)

• Bachelor’s degree in a social studies discipline, Secondary Education, or related field

• Demonstrated success teaching high school Social Studies

• Strong knowledge of social studies content, inquiry-based instruction, and literacy integration

• Strong written and oral communication skills
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with digital curriculum platforms and blended learning

• Experience with project-based learning or performance-based assessment
  Bilingual (Spanish or Vietnamese) a plus
  
  

Who You Are

• You believe in the brilliance and potential of every student

• You are deeply committed to equity, inclusiveness, and high expectations

• You thrive in a dynamic, innovative, startup-like environment

• You embrace feedback, reflection, and continuous improvement

• You’re willing to do hard things in the service of students and bring others along with you
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement

• 4-day work week, extended calendar with more frequent breaks, innovative school environment

• Professional development and opportunities for growth within the Rooted School

If you're as excited about this role as we are, please email the following to our Application Review Committee at work@rootedschool.org:

1. A cover letter that includes answers the prompts below:

• Explain what prompted you to apply for this role at Rooted School and what interests you most about the opportunity to join our team.

• Tell us about a time you had a measurable (i.e. quantitative) impact on a job or an organization.

• Share your biggest area for growth (i.e. if you improved in this area, it would have a significant impact on your next professional chapter).

2. Resume that tells the story of your impact 

3. At least three references who fit the profiles below:

• Someone who’s coached/managed you for at least one year (required for at least one of your references)

• Someone who you consider a peer, or lateral to you on team you’ve been on for at least one year.