G1 Teacher

Position: 2026-2027 G1 Teacher
First Grade Teacher

Santa Fe South Early Childhood Center (ECC) | Santa Fe South Charter Schools Oklahoma City, OK | 190-196 Day Contract (196 days for new teachers; 190 days for returning teachers)
About Santa Fe South Early Childhood Center

Santa Fe South Early Childhood Center (ECC) is one of the longest-standing campuses within Santa Fe South Charter Schools and operates as part of Penn Elementary. Housed in a beautifully reimagined former armory, ECC blends rich history with joyful, purposeful early learning for grades PreK-1.

For decades, ECC has served south Oklahoma City families with deep commitment and pride. Many current students are the children of former Santa Fe South Saints-a testament to the trust, legacy, and generational impact of our work.

At ECC, we believe the earliest years matter most. First grade is not just a grade level-it is a foundation for literacy, numeracy, confidence, and independence. We hold high expectations, build strong relationships, and create classrooms where students feel safe, known, and capable.
Position Summary

The First Grade Teacher at ECC is responsible for creating a structured, joyful, and academically rigorous classroom that sets students on a trajectory for long-term success. This teacher builds foundational reading, writing, and math skills while nurturing social-emotional development and independence.

The ideal candidate is mission-driven, believes all children can achieve at high levels, and understands the urgency and importance of early literacy and numeracy. Instruction is grounded in Santa Fe South's instructional framework, emphasizing intentional planning, evidence-based practices, and a culture of high expectations.
Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality, standards-aligned instruction in first grade, with particular focus on literacy and numeracy
• Build foundational reading skills, including phonics, fluency, comprehension, and written expression
• Plan and internalize lessons with fidelity, including preparing materials, anticipating misconceptions, and designing engaging activities
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs while maintaining high expectations
• Use formative and summative assessments to provide targeted instruction, interventions, and enrichment
• Establish a structured, joyful, and inclusive classroom culture with clear academic and behavioral expectations
• Support students' social-emotional development through consistent routines, relationship-building, and responsive practices
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Actively participate in Santa Fe South's coaching model, seeking and implementing feedback to strengthen instructional practice
• Contribute positively to campus-wide initiatives and professional learning communities

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Valid Oklahoma teaching certification, or willingness/eligibility to obtain (Early Childhood or Elementary Education preferred)
• Strong understanding of early literacy and numeracy development
• Commitment to serving south Oklahoma City families and aligning with SFS mission

Preferred

• Experience teaching early elementary grades (K-2), particularly first grade
• Demonstrated ability to maintain high expectations for young learners
• Growth-oriented mindset and openness to feedback

Why Teach at Santa Fe South?

• Join a mission-driven, collaborative culture focused on student growth and achievement
• Receive ongoing coaching, feedback, and professional development
• Work in a campus with deep roots, strong family connections, and a generational impact
• Make a lasting difference in students' foundational academic journey