Job Description

Position Summary

The Buckley School seeks an enthusiastic, collaborative, and student-centered Physical Education Teacher to inspire boys in Kindergarten through Grade 8 to develop a lifelong appreciation for physical activity, teamwork, wellness, and healthy competition. The successful candidate will create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where every student is encouraged to challenge himself, build confidence, demonstrate sportsmanship, and experience the joy of movement.

As an educator at Buckley, the Physical Education Teacher is an integral member of the faculty and serves as both a teacher and mentor, modeling integrity, respect, perseverance, and kindness. The ideal candidate embraces Buckley's mission of educating the whole child by supporting students' physical, social, emotional, and character development while helping each boy pursue excellence in all aspects of school life.

Essential Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Learning

• Design and implement a comprehensive physical education curriculum for students in Kindergarten through Grade 8 that aligns with New York State Learning Standards and Buckley's educational philosophy. More specifically, a lead teacher for one of the elementary grades (1-4), assist in coaching for a team in Grades 5/6, and assist in coaching for a team in Grades 7/8.

• Teach age-appropriate units that develop fundamental movement skills, coordination, balance, agility, strength, fitness, and lifelong wellness habits.

• Introduce students to a wide variety of individual and team sports, cooperative games, fitness activities, and movement experiences.

• Differentiate instruction to support students with varying abilities, learning styles, and developmental needs.

• Foster resilience, self-confidence, sportsmanship, leadership, and responsible risk-taking through physical activity.

• Incorporate social-emotional learning and character education into daily instruction.

Student Engagement and Classroom Culture

• Create a safe, joyful, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued, challenged, and supported.

• Establish high expectations for effort, participation, teamwork, and respectful behavior.

• Encourage students to develop perseverance, self-discipline, and a growth mindset.

• Build positive relationships with students and serve as a trusted mentor and role model.

Assessment and Communication

• Assess student growth using developmentally appropriate methods and provide meaningful feedback.

• Maintain accurate records of student progress and complete written reports in accordance with school expectations.

• Communicate effectively with families regarding student development and classroom experiences.

• Collaborate with classroom teachers, learning specialists, counselors, and administrators to support the success of every student.

Community and Professional Responsibilities

• Participate actively in faculty meetings, professional development, school events, and committee work.

• Support school-wide traditions, wellness initiatives, field days, and special programs.

• Collaborate with colleagues to create interdisciplinary learning experiences whenever appropriate.

• Maintain and organize gymnasium spaces and physical education equipment, ensuring safe operation and compliance with school safety standards.

• Stay current with best practices in elementary physical education, child development, and instructional innovation.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a related field.

• New York State Certification in Physical Education (or eligibility to obtain certification).

• Experience teaching elementary-aged students, preferably Kindergarten through Grade 4.

• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships with young children and foster a positive learning environment.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.

• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Physical Education or a related field.

• Experience in an independent or private school setting.

• Experience coaching youth athletics or leading extracurricular programs.

• Knowledge of current best practices in elementary physical education and child development.

• Experience integrating technology and innovative instructional practices into physical education.

Desired Characteristics

The ideal candidate:

• Is passionate about working with elementary-aged boys and understands their developmental needs.

• Believes that athletics and physical education are essential components of educating the whole child.

• Inspires students to embrace challenge, perseverance, and continuous growth.

• Models professionalism, empathy, integrity, and respect in every interaction.

• Values collaboration and contributes positively to a close-knit faculty community.

• Demonstrates flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm in lesson planning and instruction.

• Is committed to fostering an inclusive community where every student feels a sense of belonging.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to actively teach, demonstrate, and participate in physical activities throughout the school day.

• Ability to lift and move athletic equipment up to 40 pounds.

• Ability to supervise students in indoor and outdoor learning environments.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Buckley School is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. We seek educators who embrace collaboration, value differing perspectives, and are dedicated to creating an environment in which every student feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

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