Religious Education Instructor

Job Description

Religious Education Instructor

Summary of Position

The Religion Teacher is responsible for the instruction of students, organization of instructional lessons and implementation of the religious education curriculum, while being a contributing member of the community.

In addition, the Religion Teacher, as a member of the Pastoral Care Team, is responsible for the promotion of our Catholic identity while ministering to staff and students. Promotion of our Catholic identity includes:
1. Lead an animated and quality Catholic Studies experience
2. Develop an active Christian environment on campus
3. Promote SCJ values
4. Incorporate Native American aspects into the classroom and liturgy
5. Increase the spirit of generosity (Circle of Courage value) among our students
6. Provide a vibrant liturgy experience

This is an exempt position.

Accountability

Reports to the Director of Mission Integration

Core Responsibilities
• Supports and models the Catholic Mission and the Native American Culture that are the foundations of St. Joseph's Indian School.
• Promotes a reclaiming environment for all students through the Circle of Courage.

Responsibilities

1. Teaches Catholic Studies in the grade school (Grades 1 to 8) deliver engaging and age-appropriate lessons on Catholic teachings, traditions, scripture, and sacraments.

2. Assist in preparing students for receiving the sacraments (e.g., First Communion, Reconciliation, and Confirmation).

3. With the Director of Mission Integration, provides Catholic Studies instruction to the high school students.

4. Acts as a member of the Pastoral Care Team and contributes to the overall Catholic identity on campus by participating in liturgy planning and assisting with Sunday liturgy.

5. Adhere to Catholic teachings by ensure all teachings align with the doctrines and values of the Catholic Church.

6. Accurately evaluates and records student achievement and progress for reporting to the administration and team members serving the child.

7. Promotes teamwork and open communication through regular participation in discussions with other staff who also directly supervise student, i.e. houseparents, other teachers, Family Services Counselors, and families of students.

8. Acts in accordance to the Guidelines established by the school administration to provide effective supervision and quality education.

9. Promotes service learning by encourage students to live out their faith through acts of service and community involvement.

10. Serve as a faith role model by embodying the Catholic faith through personal example, guiding students in their spiritual and moral development.

11. Immediately reports any type of abuse or neglect, suspected or alleged, as well as any serious accidents or illnesses affecting the students.

12. Assists with the completion of state or local reports, surveys, inventories, plans of study, and any form required by St. Joseph's Indian School.

13. Works toward professional growth by attending workshops and taking continuing education courses.

14. Completes other responsibilities as required by the Director of Mission Integration.

Qualifications
• Must be a practicing Catholic with a strong understanding of Catholic doctrine, traditions, and values.
• Bachelor's degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Education, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to support and promote the integration of Lakota culture and spirituality into the Catholic faith experience for students.
• Be certified as a teacher by the state of South Dakota preferred
• Equivalent experience will be considered

About the Employer

St. Joseph's Indian School is a Catholic, Native American-serving school located in Chamberlain, South Dakota. Founded in 1927, the school provides a holistic education and residential care for Lakota (Sioux) children in grades 1-12 at no cost to their families.
Rooted in Catholic faith and Native American traditions, St. Joseph's Indian School is committed to nurturing the spiritual, academic, physical, and emotional well-being of its students. The school fosters a supportive learning environment that celebrates Lakota culture through language, ceremonies, dance, and spiritual traditions, while also providing a strong academic foundation.