Lower Elementary Lead Teacher (Second Grade)
Saint Mark’s School – Altadena, CA
Start Date: August 2026 | Full-Time, Exempt

Reports To:  Assistant Head of School
Date Posted: February 17, 2026

Saint Mark’s School is an independent, Episcopal coeducational day school in Altadena, California, serving preschool through sixth grade students from diverse ethnic, racial, religious, and economic backgrounds. Founded in 1960, Saint Mark’s is rooted in a mission that celebrates academic excellence, respect for diversity, spiritual growth, and the development of each student’s unique intellect and character within a nurturing environment. (Following the Eaton Fire, our elementary program is temporarily located at EF Academy in Pasadena as we rebuild our campus and continue the vibrant life of our school community.)

We are seeking a passionate, innovative, and collaborative Second Grade Lead Teacher to join our Lower Elementary team. The ideal candidate fosters a joyful, engaging classroom where academic excellence and social-emotional growth thrive and every child feels seen and valued. This educator embraces an anti-bias, inclusive approach, differentiates to meet the needs of diverse learners, and designs meaningful learning experiences that support, challenge, and build confidence.

The Second Grade Lead Teacher plans and implements a developmentally responsive curriculum aligned with the School’s mission and educational philosophy. They cultivate an inclusive classroom grounded in respect and belonging, use assessment to inform instruction, and partner with families to support each child’s growth. The ideal candidate is eager to contribute to the life of a resilient, mission-driven community during this meaningful chapter in Saint Mark’s history.

Key Responsibilities

Design and implement curriculum and instruction aligned with best practices and developmental needs of lower elementary students

Build and maintain a warm, inclusive, and respectful classroom community

Collaborate with faculty, the student support team, and academic leadership to support all learners

Design and assess meaningful assignments using diverse strategies to evaluate student growth and guide instruction, with clear communication of progress

Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues, including writing report cards,  holding parent conferences, and maintaining regular updates

Mentor and support a co-teacher or associate teacher

Supervise students’ safety and well-being throughout the school day, including during lunch, recess, and field trips

Actively engage in school events, community life, and professional development opportunities

Model and embrace the mission and values of Saint Mark’s School

Minimum Qualifications, Experience, and Skills

Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field

Valid Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Minimum of three (3) years of experience teaching at the elementary level, preferably in an independent school setting

Training or familiarity with Responsive Classroom

Experience with Singapore Math, Orton-Gillingham (or comparable structured literacy approach) and writing workshop

Experience designing inquiry-based, interdisciplinary, and project-based learning experiences

Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills

Enthusiasm for fostering creativity, independence, and collaboration in young learners

Commitment to ongoing professional growth and contributing positively to school culture

Commitment to equity, inclusion, and anti-bias practices

Salary & Benefits
Salary Range: $65,000 – $98,000, commensurate with experience and education

Benefits: Full medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus TIAA/CREF retirement plan

Physical Demands
This position includes some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling; some climbing and balancing; some stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling; hearing, speaking, observing and significant fine finger dexterity. Specific abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Generally, the job requires 15% sitting, 40% walking and 45% standing and the ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds. The job is performed under minimal temperature variations, a generally hazard free environment, and in a clean atmosphere.

To Apply
Please submit a cover letter and current resume to:
Kelly Mancuso, Assistant Head of School
Email: kellym@saint-marks.org

Deadline:  Thursday, March 12, 2026

Saint Mark’s School is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, the presence of mental, physical, or sensory disability, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by federal or state law.