UNIVERSITY LIGGETT SCHOOL \ OUR SCHOOL
\ OUR SCHOOL
Join our Team!
University Liggett School’s faculty and staff of 126 includes master teachers, alumni, recent college graduates, and business, communications, and education professionals with decades of successful experience in independent schools. More than 50 of our full-time faculty hold advanced degrees in their fields. Many are also active as successful writers, artists, scientists, and lecturers in their own fields, as well as being committed to the community and social service in the Detroit area.
Our faculty enjoy the flexibility of small class sizes (with an 8:1 student/teacher ratio, the average class size is 14).
All teaching employees are supported by the Heads of each division, their peers, and the Head of School. Ample professional development opportunities are provided by school administration and faculty are encouraged to pursue additional opportunities at any point in their careers at University Liggett School. Successful teaching applicants are able to support the students through their involvement in the arts, athletics and after school programs.
University Liggett School is seeking teachers with a minimum of three years of teaching experience in their field. A degree in the teaching subject area is mandatory. We are looking for educators who are confident in their content area knowledge, adept with the integration of technology, invigorated by the process of collaboration and experienced in implementing inquiry-based lessons that put students at the center of their learning.
If you are interested in exploring employment with University Liggett School, send the requested information to the appropriate person listed on the job posting.
Faculty positions
The Associate Prekindergarten Teacher will support the mission and vision of University Liggett School through positive interaction with students, parents, and faculty. Specifically, the Associate Prekindergarten Teacher is responsible for ensuring that the school’s mission, vision, and strategic plan are the center of all decisions and actions. The Associate Prekindergarten Teacher will support an atmosphere of trust and openness among employees, students, and parents and will support an atmosphere that fosters the intellectual, social, physical, behavioral, and emotional growth of each student.
The primary role of the associate teacher is to support and supervise students while working closely with the lead teacher. This role also serves to provide less experienced teachers with hands-on professional experience working with a mentor teacher.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Engage actively with the children to foster a positive learning environment and provide a welcoming, friendly, and inclusive atmosphere for students
- Work closely with the lead teacher to plan and carry out lesson plans grounded in the Reggio Emilia philosophy
- Supervise group activities and assist in small group instruction
- Help maintain the classroom materials and environment in a clean and orderly manner
- Assist the lead teacher using positive feedback and disciplining when necessary
- Assist in maintaining records of student progress and needs
- Maintain a safe and supportive environment for young children
- Participate in faculty duties, such as student supervision during recess, snack, lunch, nap and dismissal
- Handle basic hygiene needs such as handwashing, assisting with the bathroom and dressing for outdoor play
- Observe children and share any concerns with the lead preschool teacher, LS psychologist, or Early Childhood Program Director
- Support lead preschool teacher using a whole-child approach that builds classroom community and creates an environment that remains responsive to the strengths and needs of all students
- Attend weekly faculty meetings, team meetings, and professional development days
- Attend Back to School Night and parent-teacher conferences
- Work with lead teacher, Division Head, and Dean of Teaching and Learning to strengthen pedagogy and knowledge of Reggio Emilia and take advantage of professional development opportunities
- Model the Liggett core values within and beyond the classroom walls
Qualifications
- Bachelor degree from an accredited college or university in early childhood education or elementary education preferred
- Familiarity with a Reggio-inspired classroom or emergent curriculum is preferred
- Previous experience working with young children
- A passion for early childhood education and helping children grow in a positive way
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Flexibility when the need arises
- An understanding of the importance of a consistent routine in the early childhood classroom
Screenings – TB assessment, Livescan Background Check, CPR/First Aid certification
Work Environment:
This job operates in a professional school environment.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
9 months: 7:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Contact Person
Qualified candidates should send the following to Peggy Dettlinger, Head of Lower School, at pdettlinger@uls.org:
- A letter of interest
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Responses to the following prompts with a video, writing, or an artifact:
- Describe a recent professional development experience you participated in and its impact upon your practice.
- What is the most significant pedagogical shift you have made in your practice from the beginning of your career to today?
- What role does assessment play in your classroom?
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
Liggett is an equal-opportunity employer and educational institution. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, misdemeanor arrest record, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by federal or Michigan law.
This policy governs all aspects of employment at Liggett including hiring, assignments, training, promotions, compensation, employee benefits, discipline, discharge, and all other terms and conditions of employment. This policy applies to all conduct on school premises, during school-sponsored activities on or off campus, and in connection with all school-related duties or functions. This policy also applies to all conduct and communication by vendors or other third parties while on school premises or in connection with providing services to the school.
The Middle and Upper School Visual Arts teacher will support the mission and vision of University Liggett School through positive interaction with students and faculty. Specifically, it is the Middle and Upper School Visual Arts Teacher’s responsibility to ensure that the school’s mission, vision, and strategic plan are the center of all decisions and actions. The Visual Arts Teacher will support an atmosphere of trust and openness among employees, students, and parents and will support an atmosphere that fosters the intellectual, social, physical, behavioral, and emotional growth of each student.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Teach 5 sections of Middle and Upper School Visual Art which include various forms such as painting, drawing, sketching, and 3-D art.
- Guide and support student portfolio creation and the college admissions process.
- Create an equitable and inclusive class environment that promotes community, integrity, respect, excellence, and empathy
- Design projects that stretch student thinking and imagination
- Scaffold assignments effectively and respond thoughtfully and promptly to student work
- Collaborate with colleagues and engage in department discussions about pedagogy and other concerns
- Participate actively in advancing the Visual and Performing Arts Department Curriculum and The Liggett Approach
- Serve as a Upper School co-advisor
- Communicate thoughtfully, respectfully, and clearly with parents
- Write thoughtful, articulate progress reports
- Along with core teaching responsibilities, the candidate may be asked to take on additional duties that may include photography for the yearbook, assistance with scenic design, faculty chaperone at the 6th grade trip, or other activities that integrate visual art in the life of our school.
Qualifications
- Teaching degree, masters level or advanced degree in visual arts
- Enthusiasm for Middle and Upper School students and an understanding of their developmental needs
- A thoughtful and engaging approach to teaching, learning, and assessment
- A growth mindset about teaching practices and an eagerness to work toward professional goals and development
- A keen desire to work in a collaborative, inclusive, and student-centered environment
- Ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds to develop healthy, supportive, and responsive relationships
- Strong writer, reader, and speaker
- Eager willingness to support and to be present in the life of the school
- Facility with technology in the classroom
Work Environment:
This job operates in a professional school environment.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
9 month employee/ 7:45 am- 3:30 pm
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
Liggett is an equal opportunity employer and educational institution. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, misdemeanor arrest record, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by federal or Michigan law.
This policy governs all aspects of employment at Liggett including hiring, assignments, training, promotions, compensation, employee benefits, discipline, discharge, and all other terms and conditions of employment. This policy applies to all conduct on school premises, during school-sponsored activities on or off campus, and in connection with all school-related duties or functions. This policy also applies to all conduct and communication by vendors or other third parties while on school premises or in connection with providing services to the school.
Contact Person
Qualified candidates should send the following to Shernaz Minwalla, Head of Upper School, at sminwalla@uls.org:
- A letter of interest
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Responses to the following prompts with a video, writing, or an artifact:
- Describe a recent professional development experience you participated in and its impact upon your practice.
- What is the most significant pedagogical shift you have made in your practice from the beginning of your career to today?
- What role does assessment play in your classroom?
About University Liggett School
The oldest independent co-educational day school in Michigan, University Liggett School is among the preeminent PreK-12 institutions in the Midwest. University Liggett School is known for providing the kind of innovative and exploratory experiences that connect a diverse student body with their learning in dynamic and engaging ways. It is an inspiring place where ideas and possibilities abound. Like any school, there are traditions that form the foundation of our work in the community, and our foundation is strong. This guiding philosophy is supported by a rich array of co-curricular programs.
University Liggett School seeks a full-time, experienced Spanish teacher to begin in September 2024.
Department Philosophy:
The Modern Languages (ML) Department offers a language experience in French, Spanish and Mandarin. Students excel in their language(s) of choice and are able to take more than more than one language simultaneously. Students explore culture, ask questions, and develop their communication skills, ultimately becoming proficient at a level appropriate to their grade. Students learn how to collaborate and work independently all while developing proficiency in all areas of language development: speaking, listening, writing and reading. In each language, students can also participate in language clubs and there are school excursions in the Detroit area to visit culturally relevant places.
Essential Duties:
- Teach four or five sections of Spanish primarily in the Upper School
- Create a class environment that is devoted to advancing proficiency in Spanish through thoughtful immersive experiences.
- Possess a wide range of teaching approaches to reach from the most advanced language learners to those with neurodiversity
- Create an equitable and inclusive class environment that promotes integrity, respect, and empathy
- Design writing assignments and activities that stretch student thinking and imagination
- Scaffold assignments effectively and respond thoughtfully and promptly to student writing
- Collaborate with colleagues and engage in department discussions about pedagogy and other concerns
- Participate actively in advancing the Modern and Classical Languages department’s curriculum and The Liggett Approach
- Serve as an Upper School advisor
- Communicate thoughtfully, professionally, and clearly with parents
- Participate actively and positively in the life of the school
Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree or higher in Spanish or Spanish Education or an equivalent field
- Enthusiasm for Upper School students and an understanding of their developmental needs
- A thoughtful and engaging approach to teaching, learning, and assessment
- A growth mindset about teaching practices and an eagerness to work toward professional goals and development
- A keen desire to work in a collaborative, inclusive, and student-centered environment
- Ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds to develop healthy, supportive, and responsive relationships
- Strong writer, reader, and speaker
- Eager willingness to support and to be present in the life of the school
- Facility with technology in the classroom
The mission of University Liggett School is to empower students to develop intellectual curiosity, leadership and confidence to contribute to a complex and changing world. We challenge students to excel and to achieve their highest potential. We create opportunities for discovery and achievement by developing a faculty who foster the strengths of each student through the Liggett Approach. We teach and practice the values of respect and responsibility in an emotionally and physically safe environment.
Contact Person
Qualified candidates should send the following to Shernaz Minwalla, Head of Upper School, at sminwalla@uls.org:
- A letter of interest
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Responses to the following prompts with a video, writing, or an artifact:
- Describe a recent professional development experience you participated in and its impact upon your practice.
- What is the most significant pedagogical shift you have made in your practice from the beginning of your career to today?
- What role does assessment play in your classroom?
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
University Liggett School is committed to a culturally diverse faculty and student body. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by applicable federal or Michigan law. Candidates from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent schools are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
If you are a highly qualified educator looking for substitute teaching work for all grade levels and subject areas, we are looking for you. At University Liggett School students are active participants in their learning experience. Substitute teachers at Liggett thrive in a dynamic, student-centered, collaborative environment.
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree. Submit to a Michigan school employment criminal background and fingerprinting checks as required. Please indicate the grade level and subject areas that you are qualified to teach in your letter of interest.
If you are interested in being added to our substitute teaching roster please email your resume and a letter of interest to Maureen Solak at msolak@uls.org.
Staff positions
University Liggett School seeks a Front Desk Manager and Communications Assistant beginning May 1, 2024. This is a 10.5 month position. Reporting to the Executive Assistant to the Head of School and Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications, the Front Desk Manager and Communications Assistant is the initial contact for guests when they call or arrive on campus.
University Liggett School, an independent, co-education school for grades PreK3-12, has a long tradition as an outstanding school, known for providing the kind of innovative and exploratory experiences that connect a diverse student body with their learning in dynamic and engaging ways. It is an inspiring place where ideas and possibilities abound. Like any school, there are traditions that form the foundation of our work in the community, and our foundation is strong. Our charge is to be better than good enough and to understand that risk-taking, innovation, and creativity lie at the center of good teaching and learning for our students and our faculty.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Operate phone system for the entire school.
- Greet visitors, check them in using the School-Pass system, and direct them to the appropriate area.
- Communicate with co-workers, parents, students and others in a courteous and professional manner.
- Oversee most aspects of mail by sorting and distributing incoming mail, coordinating pickup and delivery of packages from delivery services and summarizing copier and postage usage for school.
- Manage courier deliveries.
- Assist with the curation and creation of school newsletters.
- Manage schoolwide Google calendar.
- Manage and update portal resource boards.
- Assist in various tasks aimed at effectively conveying our message to internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist with graphic design work as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
- A high-school diploma or GED.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Courteous and friendly demeanor.
- Must be detail oriented with an ability to multitask.
- Must be able to work with a diverse group of people.
- Proficient with typing and data entry.
- Knowledge of Google Workspace.
- Experience with Hubspot (or other digital communications and marketing software) and Adobe Suite is preferred.
- Previous experience in a communications or marketing role with graphic design responsibilities is a plus.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- The workday begins at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m.
- Activities include walking, standing, bending, kneeling, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity. The work is performed primarily indoors.
- Occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.
- Work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time.
Interested candidates should contact Maureen Solak at msolak@uls.org or 313-884-4444, ext. 402.
Position Title Bus Driver
Department Transportation
Position Classification Part-Time, Non-exempt
Start Date Immediately
University Liggett School, an independent, coeducation school for grades PreK3-12, has a long tradition as an outstanding school, known for providing the kind of innovative and exploratory experiences that connect a diverse student body with their learning in dynamic and engaging ways. It is an inspiring place where ideas and possibilities abound. Like any school, there are traditions that form the foundation of our work in the community, and our foundation is strong. Our charge is to be better than good enough and to understand that risk-taking, innovation, and creativity lie at the center of good teaching and learning for our students and our faculty.
Position Summary
University Liggett School is seeking Bus Drivers to transport students over specified routes to and from school and special events. Route drivers have regular five day per week routes. Event drivers have fluctuating schedules based on scheduled school activities and events and may drive an occasional route.
Essential Responsibilities
- Fully understand how to operate and safely drive a school bus.
- Assist students with getting on and off the bus as needed.
- Ensure the safety and security of all bus passengers and the vehicle.
- Arrive at pick-up and drop-off points in a timely manner.
- Reports all accidents immediately; requesting police or ambulance service as needed.
- Communicate effectively and positively with students, parents, staff, and colleagues.
- Participates in all required training.
- Check weather conditions and road reports before departures.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by the Transportation Supervisor or other appropriate administrator.
Position Requirements
- A valid Michigan Driver’s license with satisfactory driving record.
- Possess a valid Michigan CDL with B, P, S, endorsements and acquire a Michigan Department of Education bus driver card within 90 days of hire.
- Driving experience in transporting passengers.
- Training and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position.
- Must be capable of working independently and possess the ability to understand and follow through on verbal and written instructions.
- Must possess basic first aid and CPR certification or be able to obtain it.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Possess a good knowledge of bus operation and traffic laws.
- Possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to maintain a calm demeanor.
- Alert, focused, and detail oriented.
- A self-starter who works well independently.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, use hands, use foot controls to drive, reach with hands and arms; climb, bend, kneel, and stoop; and talk and hear.
- Must be physically able to perform and demonstrate emergency evacuation procedures.
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs
- Ability to use emergency exits at any location on the bus.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, night/dusk vision, color vision, and peripheral vision.
Work Environment
The job responsibilities are performed on a bus; Occasional exposure to objectionable conditions or variations such as those found in variable weather conditions.
For consideration, interested candidates are asked to submit their letter of interest, resume, and names and contact information for three references to Donna Root at droot@uls.org.
Athletic positions
Contact us
For faculty positions, send a resume, letter of interest, and three recent professional references or for a non-teaching position, please send a resume and letter of interest to:
University Liggett School
1045 Cook Road
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236-2509
Attn: Maureen Solak
msolak@uls.org
Liggett is always seeking out experienced coaches. For athletic positions, send a resume and letter of interest to:
Dr. Leython Williams '03
Assistant Head of School for
Athletics & Ancillary Programs
lwilliams@uls.org
University Liggett School
1045 Cook Road
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236-2509