Ministerial Character Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin are canonically obedient to the Bishop and assist him in fulfilling his ministry and canonical obligations. Pastors, presidents, and principals serve as leaders of the schools to make Christ’s mission present and enduring in the schools. In order to fulfill Christ’s mission, the school leaders employ suitable, chosen collaborators, sharing with them Christ’s mission and entrusting to them various responsibilities.
Positions employed in this School help extend the ministry of the School leaders in particular ways as outlined in the job description. The employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the School leaders in the performance of their ministry and, therefore, engages in ministry for the Church.
Job Summary
The Middle School Religion Teacher plans, guides, and evaluates the learning process of students. This position reports to the principal and has decision-making responsibilities within the framework of school policies, philosophy, organization, and curriculum.
Essential Duties
Support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic education and the mission of the school.
Act as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Support and adhere to the Standards of Conduct and policies and procedures of the school.
Plan for instruction with logically sequenced objectives based on adopted curriculum and submit plans according to the school policies.
Provide appropriate material and resources for students to engage in learning.
Use effective instructional methods and models according to professional standard practice.
Use varied assessment tools to perform both formative and summative assessments.
Provide instruction and assessment for understanding.
Maintain current and accurate records according to school policies.
Practice positive, consistent discipline in the management of the classroom.
Communicate with parents regarding academic, behavioral, and safety concerns.
Maintain a work schedule that maximizes availability to students, parents, and staff.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Knowledge of subjects taught, instructional methods and strategies, and curriculum differentiation.
Knowledge of child development, learning, and behavior.
Skill in handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Skill in pacing and differentiating instruction.
Skill in motivating and engaging students in the learning process.
Skill in organizing and relating information in an understandable format.
Skill in using job-appropriate technology.
Skill in critical thinking and planning.
Skill in demonstrating professionalism in conduct, demeanor, and work habits.
Skill in collaborating with peers to enhance the work environment and support instructional planning.
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school matters.
Ability to manage student behavior in classroom setting.
Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form.
Ability to work well with others in the school community.
Ability to conference with parents upon request and respond to messages in a timely manner.
Ability to demonstrate gains in student performance that are in keeping with school goals.
Ability to respond to individual learning needs.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in subject taught or related field from an accredited American university or equivalent in a foreign country.
Experience:
None required.
Catholic Requirement:
Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing.
Certifications and Training:
Must meet the minimum requirements for teaching field as set forth by the Diocese and TCCED.
Must submit an Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) Application for Ministry within the first week of employment, participate in an EIM Basic abuse prevention training workshop within 60 days of submitting a complete Application for Ministry, and maintain EIM compliance during the entire term of employment.
Must meet staff development guidelines as set forth by the Diocese and school administration.
Without a Theology degree, must complete Religion Certification Part 1 within two years of the date of hire, completing a minimum of 25 hours each year.
Without a Theology degree, must complete Religion Certification Part 2 within six years of the date of hire, completing a minimum of 30 hours each year.
Working Conditions
All employees of the school are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the principal in the exercise of the principal’s ministry and obligations to the school.
The school is an at-will employer.
Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.
Working on weekends, evenings, and some holidays may be required.
Will be exposed to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech including Christian prayer and Catholic liturgical celebrations. Staff meetings and other functions may open and close with Christian prayer.
Will be required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.
All buildings and vehicles owned by the school are tobacco free.
May be required to use personal or school vehicles to drive to off-site locations.
Traveling within and outside the school to meetings and other events may be required, and travel may include overnight lodging.
Must maintain a work schedule that maximizes availability to students, parents, colleagues, and administration.
Will be required to work in multiple educational settings.
Employee Certification
All employees must adhere to the Catholic Schools Standards of Conduct, the Diocese of Austin EIM policies, and the social, ethical, and moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church as interpreted by the Bishop of Austin.