ʻOlelo Hawaiʻi Teacher

Apr 25 2025
Island School |Lihue|Full Time, $52,500 - $82,000 / year
Job Description

Full-Time ‘Ōlelo Hawaiʻi Teacher 

Island School seeks an ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi Teacher with a commitment to Hawaiian Culture-based Education (HCBE) independent school education in a college preparatory environment.A full-time position includes teaching classes of upper school ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and possibly supporting elementary level Hawaiian Studies, depending on course load. This educator will join an experienced team who collaborate closely to build the strongest possible program to support students and grow both language and HCBE at Island School.  The position begins in late July for the 2025-2026 academic year.  Pay range for a full-time faculty member role for 25-26 SY depending on years of experience and education: $52,500-$82,000.

Island School is a WASC/HAIS accredited PK-12 independent day school with a total enrollment of just over 500 students. The school is located on the rural island of Kaua`i, the northwestern most inhabited island in the Hawaiian archipelago, which, due to its stunning natural beauty, is known as the "Garden Island." More information about Island School, its educational philosophies, mission statement, and our curriculum can be found at ischool.org.

The successful candidate should have the ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues, and a desire to be part of an independent school community. Candidates should have experience differentiating instruction to work effectively with a range of learners, possess a passion for teaching ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, HCBE, and world languages and demonstrate effective classroom management strategies. Ideal candidates will have prior experience in teaching at the middle and/or high school level. Additional responsibilities include serving as an advisor and full participation in the life of the school.  2+ years of relevant teaching experience in an independent school preferred.Minimum Qualifications include:

  • B.S. / B.A. degree in Hawaiian Studies, ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, education, or relevant degree
  • Hawaiian language fluency 
  • Demonstrated teaching through a HCBE lens
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively work independently and in a group
  • Ability to work effectively with parents, faculty, and staff and to motivate and manage students
  • Strong work ethic, adaptability, generous spirit, sense of humor, and confidence working with students
  • Commitment to and alignment with the School's mission and vision   

Island School offers a great amount of freedom, flexibility, and collaboration to its faculty. It is a place of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, growth mindset, and joy. All constituents are supportive and place the student at the center of our efforts. 

Applications should be directed to Nancy Nagramada, Head of School. Please include a letter of introduction, a résumé, and at least three professional references in a single PDF attachment. We will begin reviewing applications immediately and will close the application period when the position is filled. Information and/or questions may be emailed to: [email protected]. Priority deadline by May 5, 2024, position will remain open until filled.

Island School is an equal opportunity employer.  The School strives to provide equal employment opportunity to all applicants and staff in accordance with sound employee relations practices and federal and state laws.  Our policy prohibits discrimination and harassment because of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity or expression), age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, arrest and court record, reproductive health decision, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, domestic or sexual violence victim status, credit history, citizenship status, military/veterans status, or other characteristics protected under applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and/or executive orders.  This policy applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including hiring, promotions, training, discipline, compensation, working conditions, and benefits.