PE Teacher - Spark Academy

SCHEDULE

Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Exempt position). Year-round academic calendar with two-week breaks between terms.

NATURE & SCOPE

Spark Academy is a co-ed, residential treatment program specializing in autism and neurodiversity. We offer a year-round, project-based learning curriculum in a co-teacher classroom that fosters confidence, connection, and a love for learning. As an accredited special education school, we are committed to providing individualized support to help students thrive academically and personally-where students come first and curriculum comes second.

The Physical Education Teacher will provide engaging, inclusive, and hands-on physical education instruction designed to help students build confidence, develop healthy habits, and discover activities they enjoy. This role requires creativity, patience, flexibility, and a willingness to think outside the box when adapting activities for students with different abilities, interests, sensory needs, and learning styles.

At Spark Academy, PE is about more than exercise or athletic performance. It is an opportunity to help students develop teamwork, self-confidence, body awareness, emotional regulation, and lifelong healthy habits. You will have the freedom to make physical education fun and meaningful without the pressure of teaching toward high-stakes standardized tests. We want students to leave your class feeling successful, capable, and excited to participate.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan and provide engaging, age-appropriate physical education instruction that promotes participation, confidence, fitness, and healthy lifestyles.


• Adapt activities, games, and instruction to meet the individual needs of students with level 1 autism and other neurodiversities.


• Create an inclusive environment where students of varying athletic abilities can experience success.


• Teach a variety of activities, including fitness, recreational sports, individual activities, cooperative games, and other movement-based experiences.


• Incorporate opportunities for students to develop teamwork, communication, problem-solving, leadership, and sportsmanship skills.


• Collaborate with the Special Education Coordinator, teachers, therapists, and Residential Coaches to support students' academic, behavioral, and social-emotional goals.


• Support IEP goals and accommodations as they relate to physical education and student participation.


• Encourage students to develop healthy habits and understand the importance of physical activity and overall wellness.


• Maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment during physical education classes and activities.


• Monitor and maintain PE equipment, facilities, and supplies to ensure they are clean, safe, and ready for use.


• Maintain accurate records of student participation, progress, attendance, and other required documentation.


• Supervise students during class and designated school activities to ensure their safety and well-being.


• Attend and actively participate in faculty meetings, professional development sessions, and school-related conferences.


• Uphold Heritage's mission and values, modeling professionalism and ethical behavior in all interactions.

QUALIFICATIONS

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


• Utah teaching license or appropriate teaching endorsement, or willingness to obtain one.


• Experience teaching physical education, working in special education, or working with neurodiverse students is highly desirable.


• Experience working with adolescents is preferred.


• Must be at least 20 years old to apply.


• Ability to safely lead and supervise physical activities and recreational sports.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.


• Strong proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking fluently).

COMPETENCIES

• Ability to create fun, engaging, and inclusive physical education experiences for students with varying abilities.


• Understanding of adolescent development and the unique needs of neurodiverse students.


• Ability to adapt activities and expectations while maintaining appropriate structure and safety.


• Strong classroom management skills and the ability to maintain a positive, supportive environment.


• Creativity and willingness to think outside the box when traditional approaches do not work.


• Even temperament, patience, and the ability to support students through frustration, anxiety, or emotional escalation.


• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.


• Ability to model healthy habits, positive sportsmanship, confidence, and respect.

BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance packages.


• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company matching contributions.


• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage.


• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching (eligible after one year).


• 8 paid holidays per year, plus accrued PTO starting on Day 1, as well as 8 weeks of VTO when school is out.


• Sundance Mountain Resort corporate passes.


• Discounted Provo Recreation Center membership.

We are committed to providing a safe and secure work environment for all employees. As a result, all new hires are required to successfully complete a background check, which may include verification of employment history, education, and criminal records.