Long-Term Substitute Teacher, 5th-Grade Math

Position Overview

San Francisco Friends School is looking for an experienced interim middle school math educator to cover 5th-grade mathematics on a long-term substitute basis from August 2026 through December 2026. The role is based in San Francisco’s Mission District and sits within a K-8 Quaker school community.

The school’s educational approach is rooted in Quaker values and aims to foster a community centered on service, simplicity, peaceful problem-solving, social justice, and thoughtful reflection. The team is seeking someone who aligns with that mission and can contribute meaningfully to a diverse, inclusive environment.

Math instruction at the school is inquiry-driven, conceptual, and hands-on. Students are encouraged to explore problems, build their own mathematical understanding, and develop confidence and enjoyment in the subject.

This interim teacher will enter a program whose year-long goals and lesson plans are already in place, but will be expected to prepare carefully for each class and make adjustments as needed during the first semester. The role calls for close collaboration with colleagues, strong communication, patience, humility, and a willingness to solve problems together.

Teaching and Department Duties

• Teach 5th-grade mathematics in the middle school.
• Give students constructive feedback and monitor academic progress.
• Maintain strong classroom management and help build a respectful, positive learning environment.
• Work closely with the math team on curriculum development, committee work, and student assessment.
• Help plan and run engaging, math-centered events for the middle school.
• Write timely parent communications, including quarterly progress reports.
• Communicate proactively and responsively with families about math content, instructional approach, and philosophy, including participation in an evening parent event.
• Take part in community-building, service learning, admissions, and school-wide activities, some of which may occur in the evening or on weekends.

Additional Middle School Responsibilities

• Serve as an advisor to a small group of students and support their academic, social, and emotional growth throughout the year.
• Lead three advisory meetings each week.
• Prepare advisees for student-led conferences during the fall semester.
• Keep regular communication with families.
• Help students develop a sense of belonging and a growth mindset.
• Collaborate with middle school colleagues to design interdisciplinary units.
• Participate in school-wide programs, service learning, and community events, including occasional evening and weekend commitments.
• Attend weekly faculty and staff meetings and bi-monthly division meetings.
• Supervise students during lunch and break periods.
• Create a classroom culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming of all identities and backgrounds.
• Apply culturally responsive teaching practices and reflect on instruction through an equity and justice lens.
• Attend the annual 5th-grade overnight field studies program and participate in other field-based academic and cultural experiences.

Qualifications

Candidates should have a solid mathematics background and a strong interest in working closely with students and colleagues in a progressive school setting. The school is looking for someone who can support learners with a range of abilities and adapt instruction to meet different needs.

Applicants must be comfortable with the Quaker philosophy, committed to inclusion, and able to work collaboratively and creatively with a diverse community.

Required Clearances

• SB 848 reference check
• Livescan background check
• Proof of U.S. work eligibility
• TB clearance certificate

Preferred Background

• Four or more years of middle school math teaching experience.
• Advanced study in mathematics or mathematics education.
• Familiarity with current teaching practices and strength in hands-on, project-based instruction.
• Ability to communicate with families in Spanish.

Equal Opportunity Statement

San Francisco Friends School is an equal opportunity employer. It does not discriminate based on race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified applicants with disabilities, and candidates who need support during the application process should request accommodation when expressing interest.

Important Notes

This position runs from August 2026 to December 2026. The school also notes that this role may involve evening and weekend events as part of community participation and school programming.