First Grade Lead Teacher (Full-Time / Part-Time) at Imagination Lab School
Job Summary
Job Summary
Reports to: Head of School | Start Date: August 2026 | Location: Palo Alto, California Imagination Lab School (ILS) in Palo Alto is a small, progressive TK–8 school integrating social-emotional learning (SEL), project-based learning (PBL), and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to nurture agency, belonging, and competence. The First Grade Lead Teacher will join a collaborative, mission-driven faculty dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, confidence, and connection in young learners. The ideal candidate is an experienced progressive educator who skillfully blends academic rigor with joyful exploration, SEL integration, and hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. The ideal candidate is an experienced progressive educator who skillfully blends academic rigor with joyful exploration, SEL integration, and hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. RESPONSIBILITIES Create a classroom culture rooted in care, curiosity, and collaboration. Design and facilitate integrated thematic units connected to real-world contexts and student interests. Guide students in developing strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and inquiry. Incorporate social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and opportunities for student agency into daily routines. Collaborate with colleagues to plan and reflect on student learning and school-wide initiatives. Differentiate instruction to support a range of academic strengths, learning profiles, and developmental needs. Maintain regular thoughtful communication with families through conferences, newsletters, and student portfolios.
Requirements / Qualifications
Experience teaching first grade or early elementary students in a progressive, inquiry-based, or project-based learning environment. Deep understanding of early childhood and elementary development and developmentally appropriate practice. Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field; master’s degree preferred. Experience designing differentiated learning experiences for students with a range of strengths and learning profiles. Commitment to creating an inclusive and culturally responsive classroom environment. Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills. A reflective, flexible, and joyful approach to teaching and learning.
Requirements / Qualifications
Experience teaching first grade or early elementary students in a progressive, inquiry-based, or project-based learning environment. Deep understanding of early childhood and elementary development and developmentally appropriate practice. Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field; master’s degree preferred. Experience designing differentiated learning experiences for students with a range of strengths and learning profiles. Commitment to creating an inclusive and culturally responsive classroom environment. Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills. A reflective, flexible, and joyful approach to teaching and learning.
Comments and Other Information
How to Apply: Please email a cover letter and resume to hr@imagination-school.org with the role in the subject line.
Comments and Other Information
How to Apply: Please email a cover letter and resume to hr@imagination-school.org with the role in the subject line.
Application Deadline
Continuous
Date Posted
7/15/2026
Contact
Number of Openings
2
Salary
Pay Range
85,000 - 108,000 Annually
85,000 - 108,000 Annually
Add'l Salary Info
Full time salary is based on experience and qualifications, plus a comprehensive benefits package. Part-time salary will be prorated based on the position’s schedule.
Length of Work Year
12 months, 190 days
Employment Type
Full Time, Part Time