Penn Fellow Program Participant

Penn Fellows Program Participant

Reports to:

Director of Penn Fellows Program and Assigned Mentor

Position Summary:

The Penn Fellows Program is a selective fellowship designed for early-career educators who demonstrate exceptional promise and a commitment to teaching in independent schools. Fellows will gain hands-on classroom experience, professional development, and mentorship while contributing meaningfully to the academic and co-curricular life of the school. This program provides a pathway for talented individuals to develop into outstanding educators who embody the school’s Core Values: Integrity, Respect, Compassion, Service, and Excellence and support the Portrait of a Learner.

Key Responsibilities:

• Teach one or more sections in a designated subject area under the guidance of a mentor teacher.

• Assist in curriculum development and lesson planning, incorporating best practices in pedagogy and student engagement.

• Participate in professional development seminars and workshops offered through the Penn Fellows Program.

• Serve as an advisor or co-advisor to a small group of students, providing academic and social-emotional support.

• Contribute to the school community through coaching, club sponsorship, or other extracurricular involvement.

• Observe and collaborate with experienced faculty to refine teaching skills and classroom management strategies.

• Engage in reflective practice and feedback sessions to support professional growth.

• Perform other duties as assigned by school administration.

Essential Qualities:

• Commitment to Learning: Eager to grow as an educator through mentorship and professional development.

• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

• Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and written communication abilities.

• Passion for Education: Genuine enthusiasm for working with students and contributing to their academic and personal growth.

Portrait of an Educator Alignment:

• Strive for Wisdom: Continuously seek feedback, reflection, and collaboration to deepen their knowledge and enhance practice.

• Find Joy in Purpose: Draw inspiration from meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and the school’s mission.

• Nurture Relationships: Foster empathy, inclusion, and a sense of belonging through authentic, caring relationships.

• Build Resilience: Approach challenges with adaptability, creativity, and balance between personal and professional well-being.

• Practice Humility: Embrace feedback, acknowledge limitations, and view learning as a lifelong process.

• Pursue Excellence: Nurture all dimensions of human flourishing by upholding high standards, seeking out and providing mentorship, and striving for improvement.

• Live with Honor: Act with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to the community’s shared values.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; candidates pursuing or holding a master’s degree in education or a related field preferred.

• Demonstrated interest in teaching and working in an independent school setting.

• Strong academic background and ability to teach in the assigned subject area.

• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.

Employer Provided Benefits:

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Long Term Disability/Short Term Disability
• Term Life Insurance
• 403(b) Defined Contribution Retirement Plan

Salary determined by UPenn.