Sinai Akiba Academy, a prominent private Jewish day school in Los Angeles, is currently seeking dedicated educators to fill full-time roles as a Lower School Jewish Education Teacher. The positions, which target the Kindergarten through 5th-grade levels, are designed for specialists capable of blending traditional Judaic studies with modern, student-driven pedagogical techniques.
The roles are central to the institution’s religious mission, requiring a deep commitment to Conservative Jewish values and practices. Beyond academic instruction, the academy is prioritizing candidates who can integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into their daily routines, ensuring that students develop emotional intelligence alongside their linguistic and historical knowledge.
With a reported salary range between $58,000 and $115,000, the school is looking for professionals who bring at least three years of experience in a lower school setting. The academy emphasizes a holistic approach to education, where the goal is to nurture ethical, critical thinkers who can navigate the world with both confidence and humility.
The search for a Lower School Jewish Education Teacher in Los Angeles, CA for Sinai Akiba Academy comes at a time when the school is doubling down on its core values, which include Kehillah Kedoshah (Sacred Community) and Talmud Torah (Academic Excellence). The institution aims to bridge the gap between historical tradition and the evolving needs of a modern student body.
A Curriculum Rooted in Tradition and Inquiry
The primary objective for these educators is to lead students through a comprehensive Judaic Studies curriculum. This includes the study of Torah, the Hebrew language, and the complex history and culture of Israel. Teachers are expected to implement a variety of instructional methods, ranging from whole-class discussions to small-group lessons tailored to diverse learning styles.
A significant portion of the role involves the practical application of faith. Educators will guide students through the meaning and rituals of major Jewish holidays—such as Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Passover—and lead weekly Shabbat celebrations. The school specifically seeks to instill Ahavat Yisrael (Love for Israel), which involves teaching the tenets of Zionism and integrating Israeli symbols and the national anthem, HaTikvah, into the classroom environment.
To ensure a supportive learning atmosphere, the academy utilizes specific frameworks for behavioral and emotional growth. Teachers will employ the Responsive Classroom model and the RULER approach to help students manage their emotions and resolve conflicts effectively. This integration of SEL ensures that the classroom is not just a place of rote memorization, but a space for personal development.
Professional Requirements and Expectations
The academy maintains high standards for its faculty, requiring a minimum of a four-year degree in education or a related field, though a Master’s degree is preferred. Because the environment is an independent school, previous experience in similar private institutions is viewed favorably. The school is looking for educators who are not only experts in their subject matter but are also proficient in modern educational technology, specifically the Google Suite and various digital learning platforms.
The daily responsibilities extend beyond the chalkboard. Teachers are tasked with active supervision during lunch and recess, managing arrival and dismissal processes, and collaborating with the “Staffulty” during in-service meetings. The role also requires a level of physical agility, as educators must be able to move quickly with children and manage classroom equipment.
| Category | Requirement/Benefit |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $58,000 – $115,000 |
| Minimum Experience | 3 years in Lower School |
| Required Education | Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s preferred) |
| Core SEL Frameworks | RULER and Responsive Classroom |
| Retirement | 403b and employer-funded plans |
The Impact of a Faith-Based Educational Approach
By focusing on values such as Derech Eretz (Kindness, Empathy, and Respect) and Tzedek, Tzedek Tirdof (Ethical Responsibility), the academy seeks to create a community that is as much about character as it is about cognition. The Lower School Jewish Education Teacher is viewed as a vital link in this chain, serving as both an instructor and a mentor.
The school’s commitment to “pay transparency” suggests a structured approach to compensation, where the final salary is determined by a combination of skills, education, and internal equity. This transparency is intended to allow for future salary growth, noting that hiring at the absolute maximum of the range is atypical.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to demonstrate a strong work ethic and high emotional intelligence. The academy views the role as a collaborative effort, requiring constant communication with parents via newsletters and conferences to ensure that the student’s progress is supported both at home and in the classroom.
Application and Next Steps
Interested educators can move forward by submitting a cover letter and resume. The academy has designated Yael Mashbaum, the Director of Jewish Education, as the primary point of contact for these applications. The process is open to all applicants regardless of race, religion, or background, in accordance with equal employment opportunity laws.
For those seeking to apply, the academy provides a dedicated portal via their careers page, where the specific requirements for the Lower School Jewish Education Teacher in Los Angeles, CA for Sinai Akiba Academy are detailed.
The next phase for qualified candidates will likely involve admission and placement assessments, as well as interviews to determine alignment with the school’s Conservative Jewish values and pedagogical philosophy. The academy continues to evaluate its staffing needs as it prepares for upcoming academic terms.
We invite you to share your thoughts on the evolution of faith-based education in the comments below or share this article with qualified educators in the Los Angeles area.
