Lead Teacher (K-6)

PS1 Pluralistic School is a K–6 independent elementary school in Santa Monica serving 170 students in multi-age classrooms. We seek Lead Teachers who are reflective practitioners, collaborative partners, and values-driven educators.

Lead Teachers work in teaching partnerships and are responsible for designing and implementing interdisciplinary curriculum; supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, and identity development; communicating clearly with families; and contributing actively to the life of the school. Teachers are expected to be visible, engaged members of the PS1 community who understand how their classroom practice supports student outcomes, family retention, and the school’s mission.

Teachers report to the Director of Teaching and Learning, and work in close partnership with the Director of Student and Community Life, Head of School, and colleagues across the school.

The Lead Teacher will be a key member of the teaching and learning community, responsible for:

• Designing and teaching developmentally responsive, interdisciplinary curriculum grounded in progressive and pluralistic education.
• Fostering classrooms rooted in joy, curiosity, inquiry, and productive struggle.
• Differentiating instruction to meet a wide range of learners in multi-age settings.
• Using observation, documentation, and reflection to guide instruction and assessment.
• Writing clear, thoughtful narrative reports that reflect each child’s academic and social-emotional growth.

The Lead Teacher will also be responsible for:

• Supporting students in developing self-awareness, empathy, responsibility, and agency.
• Collaborating with the Director of Student & Community Life and the learning support team to support students’ social-emotional and behavioral growth.
• Modeling restorative practices and inclusive community norms.
• Serving as a trusted adult who helps students develop a sense of belonging and connection to the school community.

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field.
• Master’s degree in Education or related field (preferred).
• 3+ years of teaching experience in a progressive, pluralistic educational setting.
• Strong understanding of child development and progressive education principles.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.