About Job

Psychology Teacher

Location: College Achieve Paterson Charter School/ Paterson, NJ
Organization: College Achieve Public Schools

Position Overview

College Achieve Public Schools is seeking a knowledgeable and engaging Psychology Teacher for our high school to inspire and challenge students through the study of human behavior, cognition, and mental processes. This role is ideal for an educator who believes in the power of inquiry, critical thinking, and relevance in the classroom. The ideal candidate will foster a dynamic learning environment that prepares students to succeed in higher education and understand the world around them through a psychological lens.

Key Responsibilities

Teach Psychology and related electives aligned to NJ Student Learning Standards
Design and implement lesson plans that encourage exploration, analysis, and application of psychological concepts
Foster a student-centered classroom that emphasizes inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking
Assess student learning using varied methods, and provide timely, actionable feedback
Establish a safe, inclusive, and respectful classroom culture
Integrate current events, real-world examples, and relevant psychological theories to promote engagement
Maintain accurate records for grading, attendance, and student progress in accordance with school policy
Communicate regularly with families regarding student performance and classroom activities
Collaborate with colleagues and instructional leaders to align curriculum and share best practices
Participate in all required professional development and school activities
Uphold the mission, values, and high expectations of College Achieve Public Schools
Perform additional duties as assigned by school leadership

Required Qualifications

Valid New Jersey CE, CEAS, or Standard Certificate in Psychology or Social Studies with Psychology coursework
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
Understanding of adolescent development and culturally responsive teaching practices
Demonstrated experience fostering student growth and academic achievement
Must pass a criminal history background check and meet all state requirements

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience
Signing, performance, and retention bonuses
Comprehensive benefits package, including:
Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
NJ State Pension Plan
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Access to a lesson plan repository and professional development support
Teacher referral program

Evaluation

Teachers are evaluated 2–3 times annually under the Achieve NJ Teacher Evaluation System, which includes classroom practice, student achievement, and student growth metrics (SGPs, where applicable).

Skills & Attributes