Penn Fellow Program Participant

Penn Fellows Program Participant Reports to: Director of Penn Fellows Program and Assigned Mentor Position Summary: The Penn Fellows Program is a selective fellowship designed for early-career educators who demonstrate exceptional promise and a commitment to teaching in independent schools. Fellows will gain hands-on classroom experience, professional development, and mentorship while contributing meaningfully to the academic and co-curricular life of the school.

This program provides a pathway for talented individuals to develop into outstanding educators who embody the school’s Core Values: Integrity, Respect, Compassion, Service, and Excellence and support the Portrait of a Learner.

Key Responsibilities

Teach one or more sections in a designated subject area under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Assist in curriculum development and lesson planning, incorporating best practices in pedagogy and student engagement. Participate in professional development seminars and workshops offered through the Penn Fellows Program.

Serve as an advisor or co-advisor to a small group of students, providing academic and social-emotional support. Contribute to the school community through coaching, club sponsorship, or other extracurricular involvement. Observe and collaborate with experienced faculty to refine teaching skills and classroom management strategies.

Engage in reflective practice and feedback sessions to support professional growth. Perform other duties as assigned by school administration. Essential Qualities: Commitment to Learning: Eager to grow as an educator through mentorship and professional development. Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and written communication abilities. Passion for Education: Genuine enthusiasm for working with students and contributing to their academic and personal growth. Portrait of an Educator Alignment: Strive for Wisdom: Continuously seek feedback, reflection, and collaboration to deepen their knowledge and enhance practice.

Find Joy in Purpose: Draw inspiration from meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and the school’s mission. Nurture Relationships: Foster empathy, inclusion, and a sense of belonging through authentic, caring relationships. Build Resilience: Approach challenges with adaptability, creativity, and balance between personal and professional well-being.

Practice Humility: Embrace feedback, acknowledge limitations, and view learning as a lifelong process. Pursue Excellence: Nurture all dimensions of human flourishing by upholding high standards, seeking out and providing mentorship, and striving for improvement. Live with Honor: Act with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to the community’s shared values.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required; candidates pursuing or holding a master’s degree in education or a related field preferred. Demonstrated interest in teaching and working in an independent school setting. Strong academic background and ability to teach in the assigned subject area. Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.

Employer Provided Benefits: Medical Coverage Dental Coverage Vision Coverage Long Term Disability/Short Term Disability Term Life Insurance 403(b) Defined Contribution Retirement Plan Salary determined by UPenn.