Who We Are
Since its founding in 2010, Challenge Preparatory Charter School (Challenge Prep) has provided students and families with a successful academic program in Far Rockaway, Queens. We currently serve over 1200 scholars from Kindergarten to 12th grade across 3 sites. Our school’s mission is to prepare students from the greater Far Rockaway community to excel academically, to demonstrate mastery of the NY State Learning Standards, and to achieve their career aspirations. Challenge cultivates and supports the intellectual, aesthetic, social, emotional, and ethical development of its students and prepares them to be responsible 21st century citizens. To accomplish its mission, Challenge offers a rigorous instructional program in a safe, supportive, technology-infused and data-enriched and social-emotional learning sequence, authentic field experiences, career counseling, and college coursework. It is understood that we are one organization with multiple sites, and it is expected that all members of the team collaborate to support all of our scholars.
Understanding the Role
Every member of the Instructional Team at Challenge Preparatory Charter School plays a critical role in ensuring our students have the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose - college, career, and beyond. Our educators are passionate advocates for their students and their families, working tirelessly to ensure that our students have access to opportunities. We are especially committed to attracting and developing individuals who share the life experiences of our students because we believe the best work we do is grounded in the realities and experiences of our families and students. As a General Education Teacher, you will deliver exceptional instruction and assess scholar growth. You are dedicated to constant learning and proactively provide academic and cultural support to your school and team. This position reports to the principal.
Overall Job Goals and Responsibilities
The staff of CPCS is committed to teaching students the values of scholarship, respect, honesty, courage, and balance in a collaborative technology-infused, inclusive family-like environment. Teachers assist all scholars in their content area classes so they may reach their full potential by focusing on their individual aspirations and strengths. Planning for students of all ability levels, including English Language Learners and students with disabilities is expected so that these students may achieve academic mastery. Additionally, the school will offer opportunities for teachers to participate in the following: After-school and/or Saturday tutoring, sports, enrichment, arts and family programsIn-house committees of special programsProfessional development such as inquiry work, intervisitations, common planning, and collaborative conversation Because roles in small schools are varied and complex, serious consideration will be given to applicants who demonstrate in their resume and cover letter experience and/or willingness to commit to the school’s mission and core beliefs and to become involved in these essential aspects:Collaborating with colleagues to write unit plans and interim assessments; sharing teaching strategies, visiting peer classrooms, analyzing student data, and developing best practice pedagogy that supports literacy and critical thinking skills across all subject areas Believing that all students can succeed with ample social-emotional support in and out of the classroomEmploying a variety of collaborative team-teaching models for ELL students and special needs studentsApplying data gathered through formative and summative assessments to guide instructional planDeveloping an individual growth plan, which includes professional goals and objectives in collaboration with the Principal and/or Assistant Principal Utilizing technology which includes a parent/student portal and school website that provides regular written updates and/or grades
Who We Seek
Challenge Preparatory Charter School will consider candidates who can demonstrate: Commitment to and alignment with the CPCS mission, vision, program goals, and curriculumEffective leadership skills that inspire teamwork and dedicationStrategic problem-solving skills Strong communication skills with students, families, staff, and community membersExceptional management and organizational skillsPositive experience in taking the initiative, assuming accountability and being productive in attaining measurable goals and mission accomplishmentsAbility to plan strategically and effectively, as well as adapting to unforeseen situationsAbility to create a positive school culture that is welcoming, fun, and conducive to learning
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree requiredMaster's degree preferredNYS certification preferred Highly motivated to teach students from underserved areas and devoted to closing the achievement gapTeaching experience in an urban school setting preferredThe ability to create a classroom setting where students of every academic level experience enjoyment, engagement, and enthusiasm in their learningStrong teamwork ethicAbility to use data to drive instruction
Benefits and Perks
Challenge Charter School's staff members receive a competitive salary, paid time off, matching of retirement contributions up to 3%, and more.Comprehensive benefits package including four health plans to choose from, two dental plans, and vision insuranceWe also offer flexible spending accounts for health, dependent care, and transitFlexible and reflective leadership: dedicated to staff development, team cohesion, and shared responsibility for decision-making, development, and team-wide prioritiesDriven and passionate colleagues who contribute to a professional and collaborative work environmentOpportunities to sit on various committees and participate in initiatives central to key organizational decisions and strategic planningProfessional development: weekly PD, year-round trainings, and ongoing coaching by professionalsThis is a full-time position commencing mid-August through June
School Sites
Grades K-1: 1279 Redfern Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691
Grades 2-5: 710 Hartman Lane, Far Rockaway, NY 11691
Selection Process
Phase I - Virtual Interview with the HR Recruiter
Phase II - Demo, Panel Interview, and Interview with the Senior Director of Teaching and Learning K-5
Final - Reference Check, Offer, and Contract
Work Year
This full-time position begins in mid-August and goes through the end of June.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Challenge Charter School is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community, particularly in the Far Rockaway area, and committed to educating students. We welcome all applicants who share our mission and vision to join us in our relentless work. Challenge Charter School offers a full benefits program and opportunities for professional growth. Learn more about our mission, team, and the exciting things happening at Challenge by visiting
