Pond Cove Elementary School is a vibrant, high-performing K–4 school serving over 550 students and supported by a dedicated staff of more than 80 educators and specialists. We are committed to fostering excellence and rigor across all areas of professional practice while maintaining a strong sense of community, collaboration, and student-centered learning.
We are seeking a permanent kindergarten teacher who is positive, hard-working, and deeply committed to providing high-quality instruction. The ideal candidate holds themselves and others to high expectations and brings warmth, initiative, and professionalism to their work.
Position Overview:
The successful candidate will join a collaborative team of five kindergarten teachers. Responsibilities include planning and delivering engaging, hands-on instruction aligned with district curricula across all content areas - literacy, phonics, math, science, and social studies - while using assessments to monitor student growth and guide instruction. Current core programs include Kindergarten for ME, Bridge to Reading (Heggerty), Handwriting Without Tears, and Everyday Mathematics.
Additional responsibilities include recess/lunch coverage and collaboration with a wide range of colleagues, including school counselors, social workers, special educators, learning coaches, and administrators.
Certification Required:
- Maine Elementary Teacher Certification (Endorsement 020)
Key Competencies:
- Deep knowledge of early childhood pedagogy and the ability to deliver effective, standards-aligned instruction
- Strong classroom management skills rooted in predictable routines and clear behavior expectations
- A growth mindset and the ability to foster a culture of curiosity, reflection, and continuous learning
- Willingness to embrace shared responsibility, contribute to school-wide initiatives, and attend meetings or events outside the school day
- Initiative and proactive problem-solving in response to student and school needs
Professional Expectations:
- Commitment to supporting a wide range of learners through differentiated instruction and data-informed decision making
- Knowledge of nondiscriminatory practices and an understanding of legal responsibilities related to public education
- Willingness to engage in and contribute to professional learning communities
Preferred Experience or Training In:
- Kindergarten for ME
- Everyday Mathematics
- Bridge to Reading (Heggerty)
- DRA and NWEA Assessments
- Responsive Classroom
- Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
- Multi-Tiered Systems of Support / RTI
We’re looking for someone who:
- Builds a strong, inclusive classroom community where students feel safe, valued, and respected
- Designs high-interest, hands-on learning experiences that promote engagement and deep understanding
- Collaborates effectively with colleagues and support staff to meet students’ academic, social, and emotional needs
- Is responsive to the dynamic nature of elementary schools, including schedule changes, assemblies, and school events
- Shares ownership of all students and contributes to a positive school culture
Ideal Personal Characteristics:
- Child-centered and compassionate
- Humble and reflective
- Persistent in solving problems and meeting student needs
- Clear and professional communicator
- Organized, flexible, and proactive
- Respectful and collaborative team member
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Application Instructions: Cape Elizabeth Schools will not accept paper or emailed applications or supporting materials. All applications and supporting materials are to be completed online via Frontline Recruiting & Hiring (formerly Applitrack) at https://www.cape.k12.me.us/o/cesd/page/job-openings--105 and must include the following:
- Completed online application
- Cover letter specific to posted position
- Current resume
- Copies of all post-secondary transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Copy of current Maine teaching certification or proof of pending certification
Internal applicants should submit the internal application form via Frontline Recruiting & Hiring (formerly Applitrack) on our website - https://www.cape.k12.me.us/o/cesd/page/job-openings--105
Application deadline: Until Suitable Candidate is Found
Online application materials should be directed to:
Tiffany Karnes
Principal
Pond Cove Elementary School
12 Scott Dyer Road
Cape Elizabeth, Maine 04107
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Department of Education Certification Information can be obtained online at the Maine Dept of Education website. For more information about Maine's Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) process, please visit https://www.maine.gov/doe/cert/fingerprinting or call the Maine Certification Office at 207-624-6603.
Cape Elizabeth is a residential community located on the Atlantic Ocean three miles south of Portland, two hours north of Boston, and covers about 15 square miles. It has a population of 9,068 residents living in 3,200 households. Cape Elizabeth has three schools; Pond Cove Elementary School, grades K-4; Cape Elizabeth Middle School, grades 5-8; and, Cape Elizabeth High School, grades 9-12. All schools are located within easy walking distance of each other. Please visit our website for more information.