First Grade Class Teacher — 2027–28 School Year
First Grade Class Teacher — 2027–28 School Year
Job Category: Lower School: Grades 1-5
Opening Statement
Detroit Waldorf School is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic First Grade Class Teacher to welcome our incoming first grade class for the 2027–28 school year. We seek an educator who brings warmth, creativity, and a strong foundation in Waldorf education, with the intention of guiding this class from first through eighth grade.
The class teacher plays a central role in the academic, artistic, and social development of each student. This position calls for a thoughtful educator who can cultivate a caring classroom community, build strong relationships with families, and collaborate with colleagues to provide a rich and developmentally appropriate Waldorf education.
Employment begins July 1, 2027, allowing time for curriculum preparation, classroom setup, and collaboration before the school year begins.
About
Detroit Waldorf School is a thriving nonprofit serving over 260 students from across the metro area, reflecting the deep trust families place in this extraordinary community. Graduates carry forward the school’s values into diverse fields, embodying creativity, leadership, and a commitment to positive change. Faculty and staff members are recognized leaders and mentors in Waldorf education, sharing Detroit’s unique story on national and international stages.
At its core, Detroit Waldorf School is more than an institution. It is a living, breathing community where diversity, ingenuity, and resilience converge to inspire learners and educators alike. Our history is a testament to the power of visionary education and the belief that nurturing the whole child can transform not just individual lives, but the very fabric of our city.
Essential Job Duties
Plan and teach a developmentally appropriate Waldorf curriculum, beginning with first grade in the 2027–28 school year.
Bring academic subjects to life through storytelling, movement, music, visual arts, and practical activities.
Establish classroom rhythms, routines, and expectations that support learning, independence, and a strong sense of community.
Observe and assess student progress, maintain appropriate records, and prepare written student reports.
Respond to students’ individual learning needs in collaboration with families, colleagues, and student support personnel.
Build respectful, consistent relationships with parents and caregivers through regular communication, conferences, and class meetings.
Collaborate with subject teachers to support a cohesive educational experience.
Participate in faculty meetings, pedagogical study, professional development, and school committees.
Support school festivals, community events, and admissions activities as appropriate.
Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment.
Prepare for the ongoing development of the class, with the intention of continuing as its teacher through eighth grade.
Qualifications
Required:
A bachelor’s degree.
Completed Waldorf grades teacher certification.
A strong understanding of Waldorf education, child development, and the grades curriculum.
The ability and commitment to guide a class from first through eighth grade.
Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.
The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and build constructive partnerships with families.
A commitment to creating an inclusive classroom that respects and supports students from diverse backgrounds.
Preferred:
Previous experience as a Waldorf class teacher.
Experience teaching first grade or the early elementary grades.
Experience supporting students with varied learning needs.
Strengths in storytelling, music, movement, visual arts, and other artistic practices central to Waldorf teaching.
Experience contributing to a collaborative faculty community.
What We Are Looking For
The ideal candidate is:
Warm, grounded, and attentive to children’s individual development.
Enthusiastic about bringing the Waldorf curriculum to life through academic and artistic work.
Able to provide clear, consistent classroom leadership.
Reflective and open to feedback, mentorship, and continued professional growth.
Committed to building lasting relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
Dedicated to the mission and values of Detroit Waldorf School.
Training Requirements
The selected candidate will be required to complete and maintain the following trainings as a condition of employment:
Mandated Reporter Training
First Aid and CPR Certification, required every two years
Employment Details
Eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
403(b) retirement plan
Life insurance
Short-Term Disability (STD)
Long-Term Disability (LTD)
Paid Parental Leave
To Apply
If you are passionate about Waldorf education and inspired by the opportunity to guide a class from first through eighth grade, we encourage you to apply.
Detroit Waldorf School is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Interested candidates should submit a completed employment application, a letter of interest, and a current resume to hr@detroitwaldorf.org. Please include “First Grade Class Teacher — 2027–28” in the subject line.
Applicants are also asked to attend a Taste of Waldorf Tour as part of the application process.
