Grade Level Support Teacher (Permanent Building Substitute)
Catalyst Academy Charter School | Pittsburgh, PA
We Are Seeking
We are seeking a Grade Level Support Teacher (Permanent Building Substitute) to serve in a full-time instructional support role within our school. This position is ideal for an educator who is flexible, relationship-driven, and committed to maintaining continuity of instruction in a structured, high-expectations school environment. The ideal candidate is passionate about scholar growth, values collaboration and coaching, and is eager to contribute as a full member of the Catalyst teaching staff.
This role is more than a traditional substitute position. As a Grade Level Support Teacher, you will serve as a full-time member of our instructional team, stepping into classrooms as needed, supporting daily instruction, reinforcing school-wide systems, and building strong relationships with scholars and staff. For educators interested in growing into a lead classroom role, this position can serve as a pathway to a full-time general education teaching opportunity at Catalyst Academy.
About Catalyst Academy
Catalyst Academy Charter School (est. 2020) is a mission-driven public charter school located in Pittsburgh’s East End, serving scholars and families from historically underserved communities.
Our mission is to build a world-class K–8 school where scholars are prepared for college, career, and life through rigorous instruction, consistent systems, and high expectations.
We are a growing school, currently serving grades K–6 and expanding each year as we build toward a full K–8 model. As we continue to grow, we are seeking educators who are excited to grow with us, bring their talents, and contribute to building a strong, high-performing school environment.
Our culture is grounded in three core values: Belong. Grow. Achieve. We create spaces where scholars and staff feel seen, heard, and valued, we prioritize continuous growth through coaching and development, and we hold ourselves accountable for achieving strong academic results.
Why Teachers Choose Catalyst
Mission-Driven Work That Matters
At Catalyst, educators do more than teach. They make a lasting impact. Our team is deeply committed to serving scholars from historically underserved communities and closing opportunity gaps through high-quality instruction, strong relationships, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential.
A Culture of Belonging, Growth, and Achievement
Our core values—Belong, Grow, Achieve—shape our daily work. Staff are supported, valued, and challenged to continuously improve while contributing to a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.
High-Impact Coaching & Development
Each teacher is supported through ongoing instructional coaching, classroom observations, feedback meetings, and collaborative planning focused on strengthening instructional practice and scholar outcomes.
Professional Development & Collaboration
Teachers participate in structured summer training and ongoing weekly professional development focused on instruction, collaboration, data analysis, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide consistent classroom coverage and instructional support in alignment with school needs and staffing priorities
- Deliver teacher-created or school-provided lesson plans to maintain continuity of instruction in the absence of the classroom teacher
- Support whole-group, small-group, and individual instruction in alignment with school expectations and instructional priorities
- Reinforce Catalyst’s classroom routines, behavioral expectations, and school-wide systems to ensure a consistent scholar experience
- Build strong relationships with scholars, families, and staff to support a positive, structured, and engaging learning environment
- Collaborate with teachers and school leadership to support classroom needs, scholar progress, and instructional continuity
- Step in to support classrooms, intervention blocks, testing coverage, or other instructional priorities as needed
- Use strong classroom management practices to maintain a safe, productive, and high-expectations learning environment
- Participate in coaching, professional development, staff meetings, and other school-based responsibilities as a full member of the teaching team
- Maintain professionalism, flexibility, and readiness to adapt to changing instructional and operational needs throughout the school day
Skills & Qualifications
- Ability to lead and support instruction in a structured, high-expectations school environment
- Strong classroom management skills and the ability to establish consistency quickly across different classrooms
- Flexibility and adaptability in supporting multiple classrooms, grade levels, and instructional needs
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills with scholars, families, and colleagues
- Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, school leaders, and support staff
- Experience working in urban school environments or with students from historically underserved communities preferred
- Demonstrated commitment to educational equity and scholar success
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage shifting priorities throughout the school day
- Openness to feedback, coaching, and continuous professional growth
- Commitment to maintaining consistently high academic and behavioral expectations for all scholars
Core Competencies
- Classroom Management
- Instructional Support
- Flexibility & Adaptability
- Relationship Building
- Student Engagement
- Collaboration
- Cultural Competence
- Professionalism & Reliability
- Organization & Execution
- High Expectations & Accountability
Qualifications
Teaching certification preferred but not required for this role
All required Pennsylvania clearances must be obtained and maintained in accordance with state law.
Compensation & Benefits
This is a full-time, benefits-eligible instructional position and part of Catalyst Academy’s teaching staff. Compensation is competitive with surrounding school systems, and eligible employees receive Catalyst’s full benefits package.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Catalyst Academy Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees, scholars, families, and members of our community.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $47,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Catalyst Academy serves scholars and families from historically underserved communities. What interests you about working in this type of school environment, and how would you support scholar success through your role?
Education:
Work Location: In person
