The Position

University Liggett School seeks a dynamic, innovative, and energetic, physical education teacher to join the middle school physical education program. Candidates should be eager to work in a collaborative and team-based environment that is committed to educating the whole child while delivering robust curricula centered around general elements of fitness, wellness, and team sports. Additionally, schoolwide wellness initiatives are strategic priorities for the school, and the ideal candidate will bring a desire to partner in the implementation of this important institutional goal.

Responsibilities include:

• Teach four or five sections of middle school Physical Education
• Create an equitable class environment which promotes integrity, empathy, and respect
• Serve as a middle school advisor
• Be a contributing member of a middle school grade level team
• Serve as an active member of the Physical Education department, participating actively in advancing departmental curricular initiatives and The Liggett Approach
• Ensure progression of skill development which challenges students individually and as a group
• Communicate thoughtfully, respectfully, and clearly with parents
• Write thoughtful, articulate trimester comments that demonstrate a thorough understanding of each learner
• Collaborate with colleagues and and engage in departmental discussions about pedagogy and other concerns
• Be engaged in the life of the school by coaching two seasons of athletics based on experience and strategic need

Physical Education Department Philosophy and Mission

The Liggett Physical Education department creates a safe environment, both physically and psychologically, for each of its students. Compassion, responsibility and acceptance of others are paramount on a daily basis through instruction, reflection and debriefing.  Within a competitive situation each student can fully engage and build self-confidence in a comfortable setting regardless of skill level. Units are designed so that each student finds a role to experience success.

The Liggett Physical Education department promotes and upholds the qualities inherent in teamwork and good sportsmanship. Classes promote a cooperative environment in which students see the importance of communication and collaboration where both sharing and listening to ideas is encouraged. All students learn to recognize, accept, and value their strengths, as well as the strengths of others. Active participation and goal setting challenge students to achieve their personal best. Throughout this positive physical education experience, students gain the knowledge, confidence and skills necessary to lead safe, healthy and physically active lives.

About University Liggett School

The oldest independent co-educational day school in Michigan, University Liggett School is among the preeminent PreK-12 institutions in the Midwest. Enrolling more than 640 students, University Liggett School offers a rigorous and innovative academic framework that allows students in every grade to find their passions and explore them in depth while developing creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and adaptability. This guiding philosophy is supported by a rich array of co-curricular programs and empowers students to drive their own academic experience, preparing them to flourish at some of the strongest colleges and universities in the country. Concentrated class sizes and challenging academics shape students, giving them a keen sense of self while simultaneously fostering lifelong appreciation for and an understanding of learning.

The mission of University Liggett School is to empower students to develop intellectual curiosity, leadership and confidence to contribute to a complex and changing world. We challenge students to excel and to achieve their highest potential. We create opportunities for discovery and achievement by developing a faculty who foster the strengths of each student through the Liggett Approach. We teach and practice the values of respect and responsibility in an emotionally and physically safe environment.

Contact Person

Qualified candidates should send a letter of interest, educational philosophy, and resume to Paul Rossi, Head of Middle School, at prossi@uls.org.

University Liggett School is committed to a culturally diverse faculty and student body. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by applicable federal or Michigan law. Candidates from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent schools are encouraged to apply.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A bachelor's degree or higher in Physical Education, kinesiology, or a related field with a demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional growth
• A minimum of three years of Middle School Teaching experience in a germaine content area is preferred
• Enthusiasm for middle school learners and an understanding of their developmental needs
• Competence in Physical Education curriculum development, instruction and pedagogy
• An innovative approach to teaching, learning, and assessment
• A growth mindset about instructional practices and an eagerness to work toward professional goals and development
• A keen desire to work in a collaborative, inclusive, student-centered environment
• An eager willingness to assist and be present in the life of the school
• A strong sense of organization
• Facility with integrating technology into the curriculum
• Ability to connect with students and families of diverse backgrounds to develop healthy, supportive, and responsive relationships.