The Jewish Upper Schools of Nashville, comprising Kehilla High School and the Jewish Middle School of Nashville, are seeking an experienced, engaging, and dedicated teacher for 6th-12th Judaic Studies, including Hebrew. Candidates with experience or interest in JS program leadership, the sciences, technology, or learning support are particularly welcome but these skills are not required. Candidates should be collegial collaborators, passionate about fostering academic and spiritual inquiry, committed to student learning and growth, and joyful in the company of adolescents. As a founding Judaic Studies lead at Kehilla High School, the successful candidate will play a vital role in our educational and religious community and should find the opportunity to help shape a young, progressive Jewish school exciting and motivational.
School Background
Recently opened to meet the needs of the growing Nashville population, The Jewish Upper Schools of Nashville comprises Jewish Middle School of Nashville (JMS), founded in 2013, and Kehilla High School (KHS), founded in 2022. Both schools are fully accredited and offer college preparatory curriculum with a focus on project-based and community-focused learning. Both schools are majority Jewish but admit students of all faiths, all of whom participate in a robust, inquiry-based plan of study that is unapologetically Jewish in perspective and content. We strive to “make mensches,” nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a sense of responsibility in students, regardless of background or beliefs. Our goal is to shape graduates who are skilled and motivated learners but who also embrace humility, openness, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the world, as well as an informed and warm orientation toward Jews and Judaism.
Responsibilities
Teaching
- Develop and implement challenging, dynamic lesson plans
- Use a variety of instructional strategies to meet the diverse needs of students
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that promotes curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and academic excellence
- Contribute to school-wide initiatives and projects
- Seek opportunities to bring your individual talents and passions to the learning community
Planning & Administration
- Work with the HOS to develop a robust and engaging Judaic Studies curriculum
- Play a leading role in planning school-based Jewish ritual activities, including tefilah and observance of holidays
- Collaborate with colleagues to plan and coordinate curriculum and co-curricular activities
- Contribute to the development of innovative, tailored teaching materials
- Contribute to the planning and organization of events, activities, clubs, and unique educational field trips for our Flex Fridays program
- Chaperone and possibly transport students regularly and safely to school activities as needed
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or smicha preferred
- Teaching experience at the middle and/or high school level
- Passion for Jewish education and a commitment to students
Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience
- Small class sizes
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Opportunities to interact with the Nashville community and travel with students
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to sroth@nashvillejhs.org . Please include “Judaic Studies Application” in the subject line. The posted position is for Academic Year 25-26; however, if you have availability or interest sooner, please indicate this in your materials. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Our school is an equal opportunity employer.