LEAP Teacher: Learning, Exploring, Achieving, & Progressing (2026-2027)

ABOUT OUR DISTRICT

The Syracuse City School District is On the Rise! We are undergoing a new phase of innovation and transformation with the goal of ensuring that all students graduate high school with the skills needed to be ready for college and career. For Syracuse, all means all. The School Board and Syracuse community have charged the Superintendent with improving student achievement, and she is seeking a dedicated and diverse team of educators to partner with her in moving the district toward its goals.

 The Syracuse City School District represents 35 schools and programs, including 6 high schools, 6 middle schools, 6 K-8 schools, 13 elementary schools, and 4 alternative education programs, serving approximately 19,000 students Pre-K–12. Of these students, 82.3% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, 20.1% are served by the Office of Special Education, and 83% are students of color.

WHO WE WANT:

 Successful SCSD educators are passionately committed to urban education and all in for Syracuse students. They:

• Believe strongly that all students can learn at high levels;
• Demonstrate commitment to serving urban students, schools or communities, and to closing the achievement gap;
• Demonstrate willingness to put the interests of students above all others;
• Actively contribute to a culture of high expectations in their school and district;
• Adapt seamlessly to the complexities of the urban school environment; and
• Follow current trends in education policy and research, including Common Core standards, comprehensive assessment systems and data-driven instruction.

Position Overview: The Learning, Exploring, Achieving and Progressing (LEAP) program is seeking dedicated and passionate elementary teachers to join our innovative educational team in an alternative setting. The ideal candidate will be committed to supporting students and their families through a holistic, integrated approach, fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment. This position requires Therapeutic Crisis Intervention System (TCIS) training and other relevant therapeutic setting training over the summer of 2025. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Holistic Support: Provide comprehensive support to students with disabilities and their families, addressing academic, social, and emotional needs.
• Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues, parents, and community partners to create a cohesive and supportive educational experience.
• Data Utilization: Utilize data effectively to inform instruction, track student progress, and implement evidence-based strategies.
• Innovation and Creativity: Develop and implement creative and innovative teaching methods to engage students and enhance learning outcomes.
• Continuous Learning: Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning by staying current with educational research, attending professional development opportunities, and integrating new knowledge into practice.
• Flexibility: Adapt to the diverse and evolving needs of students, providing personalized and flexible support to ensure their success.
• Therapeutic Practices: Apply TCIS and other therapeutic techniques to manage crises and support students' emotional and behavioral development.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Education (Master's preferred)
• Valid teaching certification
• Experience working with students with disabilities
• Experience in alternative education settings is highly desirable
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Proficiency in data analysis and application in educational settings
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively and solve problems effectively
• Commitment to professional growth and development

Attributes:

• Compassionate towards the needs of students with disabilities
• Passionate about holistic and integrated student support
• Strong collaborator with a team-oriented mindset
• Skilled in using data to drive instructional decisions
• Creative and innovative thinker and problem solver
• Lifelong learner dedicated to continuous improvement
• Flexible and responsive to the needs of students

Compensation:

• Compensation is based on qualifications and experience in accordance with the Unit 1 contractual agreement and ranges from $59,499-$102,037 for the 2026-2027 school year.
  *Any non-certified long-term substitute will be paid $53,000. 
• Teachers and Social Workers hired for the LEAP and QUEST program will be paid a stipend of $7,500.
• Teachers may also have the opportunity to participate in our Summer School Programs, which are compensated at an hourly rate of $45.00.
• Teachers of color or those with experience and a deep background in Urban Education may qualify for the District's Urban Fellowship Program.