High School Social Studies Teacher​/Department Head

Position Summary
The High School Social Studies Department Head serves as the instructional leader of the Social Studies Department while maintaining a partial teaching load (in accordance with the teacher contract). This role supports high-quality teaching and learning through curriculum leadership, collaboration, instructional support, and department coordination. The Department Head facilitates professional growth and instructional coherence but does not conduct formal teacher evaluations.

Instructional Leadership
Teach assigned classes in alignment with district curriculum and instructional expectations.
Model effective instructional practices and student-centered learning strategies.
Support teachers through classroom observations, feedback, and collegial coaching.
Promote best practices in literacy, inquiry-based learning, civic engagement, and historical thinking skills.
Support integration of instructional technology and innovative teaching strategies.

Curriculum & Program Oversight
Lead curriculum alignment to district standards, state frameworks, and graduation requirements.
Oversee course development, revision, and vertical alignment across grade levels.
Analyze student performance data to inform instructional adjustments and departmental goals.
Collaborate with administration on program evaluation and long-term department planning.

Department Coordination & Collaboration
Plan and facilitate regular department meetings focused on instructional improvement, curriculum development, and student achievement.
Develop meeting agendas and maintain clear communication of action steps and outcomes.
Foster a collaborative and professional department culture.
Coordinate instructional material selection in alignment with district procedures.
Support the onboarding of new Social Studies teachers.

Student Support & Program Development
Monitor course offerings to ensure equitable access and alignment with student needs and interests.
Support the development of electives, Advanced Placement courses, and interdisciplinary opportunities.
Collaborate with counselors and administrators on course recommendations and placement guidelines.

Communication & Leadership
Serve as liaison between the Social Studies Department and the school administration.
Communicate department initiatives, needs, and accomplishments to stakeholders.
Support school-wide initiatives and improvement planning.
Assist in budget planning and resource allocation for the department.

Qualifications
Valid state teaching certification in Social Studies.
Prefer a valid state Curriculum Coordinator certification.
Master's degree preferred.
Minimum of five years of successful high school teaching experience.
Demonstrated leadership experience (formal or informal).
Strong knowledge of curriculum design, instructional best practices, and assessment development.
Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.