Teach in a school designed around teacher wellness and student relationships. ZECA School of Arts & Technology in Jacksonville, NC is hiring passionate elementary educators for the 2026-27 school year. We offer a 4-day student instructional week (students dismiss every Monday for teacher planning and professional development), small class sizes averaging 10-16 students, and a school culture built on The R.E.A.L. Approach™—Relationships, Emotional Intelligence, Academics, and Love.
Why Teachers Choose ZECA:
- 4-Day Student Week: Every Monday is dedicated to teacher planning, collaboration, and professional development—no students, no scrambling for prep time
- Daily Planning Time: Additional 60-90 minutes of planning built into every instructional day
- Small Class Sizes: Average 10-16 students per class, capped at 23
- Built-In Wellness Support: Teacher reset room on campus and mental health days built directly into the school calendar
- State Benefits: Salary comparable to NC state schedule, plus participation in state health insurance and state retirement system
- Real Coaching & Mentorship: Structured professional development, instructional coaching, and leadership pathways
- Innovative Teaching: Project-based learning, arts integration, technology integration, and cooperative learning structures—teach beyond the textbook
About ZECA:
ZECA is not a traditional school environment. We are a mission-driven learning community where educators make a visible impact, grow professionally, and help shape an innovative model of education. Our whole-child approach blends strong academics, emotional development, arts integration, and future-focused technology experiences. Teachers here are not isolated employees—they are part of an aligned team working together to improve outcomes for students and families.
The R.E.A.L. Approach™:
We believe student success begins with aligned adults, clear systems, and strong daily routines. Teachers at ZECA are supported in creating structured, peaceful classrooms where students feel seen, challenged, and cared for. Our culture is built on Relationships, Emotional Intelligence, Academics, and Love.
What You'll Do:
- Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned instruction using project-based and hands-on learning approaches
- Build strong relationships with students and families grounded in The R.E.A.L. Approach™
- Integrate the arts, technology, and cooperative learning structures into daily instruction
- Collaborate with grade-level teams during weekly Monday planning days
- Participate in coaching cycles and ongoing professional development
- Contribute to a positive, mission-driven school culture
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree required
- North Carolina teaching license preferred (will consider candidates eligible for licensure or pursuing residency licensure)
- Strong classroom management skills and commitment to relationship-based teaching
- Passion for innovative, student-centered instruction
- Commitment to collaboration and continuous growth
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM (Mondays are student-free; teachers engage in planning and PD)
Location: Jacksonville, North Carolina (on-site)
Start Date: August 10, 2026
To Apply: Submit your resume and a brief cover letter sharing why ZECA's mission resonates with you.
Pay: $41,051.36 - $53,051.11 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
