About

Career Opportunities

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Harrisburg Academy is a dynamic and vibrant community dedicated to developing young scholars, artists, and athletes of character. Faculty and staff alike play an integral role in shaping the experiences of our students. We pride ourselves in recruiting and retaining quality and exceptionally talented employees who are passionate about their field and value lifelong learning.

Established in 1784, Harrisburg Academy is one of the oldest non-public schools in the nation and Harrisburg’s only independent school. Our coed, diverse school community inspires students from age three through 12th grade by providing an academically challenging and globally minded liberal arts education focused on dynamic classroom experiences, strong student outcomes, and a commitment to character development.  The Academy proudly stands as the first school in the greater Harrisburg area to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and merit scholarship.

 Harrisburg Academy embraces the diversity of people, cultures, and ideas, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Full-Time Positions

List of 5 items.

  • Head of Early Childhood and Lower School

    Harrisburg Academy seeks a dynamic, innovative, and experienced Head of Early Childhood and Lower Schools for the 2022-23 school year. Reporting directly to the Head of School, the Head of Early Childhood and Lower School is charged with the comprehensive responsibility for all activities involving students and faculty in both Early Childhood and Lower School divisions, as well as oversight of the International Baccelaureate’s Primary Years Programme (PYP); specific responsibilities include the following: 
     
    • To maintain congruence between the school's board-approved mission statement and all activities of the Early Childhood and Lower School divisions.  
    • To act as the educational leader of the Early Childhood and Lower School divisions, responsible for their day-to-day operation; to direct the activities of the members of the school instructional and, in conjunction with the business manager, the non-instructional staff in the performance of their duties.  
    • To function as the chief articulator of both division's programs, expectations, behavioral guidelines, and other information necessary to ensure that all constituencies are fully informed consistent with their individual roles.  
    • To observe, supervise, and help evaluate the faculty in the development and implementation of curriculum; to supervise the teaching process, and to review and evaluate the academic programs.  
    • To help lead the Pedagogical Leadership Team in the articulation of the school mission, school goals, programmatic goals, course objectives, materials, methods and means of assessment.  
    • To ensure the implementation and annual reflection of the Programme of Inquiry.
    • To foster an environment where each student is seen, known, and celebrated, in which learning can take place, a school climate which is supportive and which reflects high morale.  
    • To be aware of the educational, physical, social, and psychological needs of the members of our school community and to develop plans for meeting these needs.  
    • To help oversee and direct the activities of teacher leaders, the sponsors of various student organizations and activities, and faculty committees.  
    • To make recommendations to the Head of School regarding the hiring and retention, and the assignment of faculty. 
    • To establish programs for the orientation of new teachers, for in-service training of all teachers, and for the evaluation of classroom teachers. To ensure that teachers are familiar with and adhere to school policies in all areas of the school operation.  
    • To conduct regular meetings with faculty which deal both with routine school matters and the stimulating exchange of ideas on issues of educational/philosophical interest and concern.  
    • To oversee the coordination of the co-curricular and extra-curricular activity programs of the school; to assist in the planning and the presentation of school assemblies and programs; to assist in maintaining a comprehensive calendar of school events; to keep the entire school community informed of various school programs and activities.  
    • To provide for the academic guidance of students; to maintain complete academic records on all students; to oversee the grading and the reporting of standards and methods used by teachers in measuring student achievement.  
    • To be responsible for establishing guidelines for proper student conduct; to maintain student discipline consistent with school policies; to monitor students' adherence to established school rules; to maintain accurate records of student attendance and citizenship.  
    • To be a visible presence in all areas of the school; to work toward a resolution of all problems - both routine and unique - as they arise; to keep the Head of School informed of the general programs, activities, and problems of the school.  
    • To help in preparing a master school class schedule and to assign teachers and students to classes and other obligations.  
    • To assist in the admission process for the testing, interviewing, and evaluating of applicants for enrollment.  
    • To participate as a member of the senior Administrative Council Small (consisting of the head of school and division heads.) 
    • To participate as a member of the Administrative Council Large (consisting of the head of school, all division heads, directors of admission, development, technology, communications, athletics, and the school counselor.) 
    • To assist in designing, implementing, and the documentation of safety concerns and crisis management. 
    • To attend and participate in Board of Trustee meetings as needed and serve on designated Board of Trustee committees as assigned. 
    • To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School. (Currently include supervision of the Extended Day Program and oversight of EDP Director and staff; supervision of Summer Camp Program and oversight of Summer Camp Director and staff; and leadership of the Pandemic Response Team and supervision of the school nurse.) 
    • To support the school and its leadership. 

    Preferred Qualifications Include:
    • Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership or applicable related field
    • Substantial classroom teaching experience (at least 3-5 years)
    • Educational experience with transdisciplinary and concept-based learning
    • Previous school leadership experience
    • Training and experience in leading the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme
    • Commitment to building student inquiry, agency, and action
    • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice initiatives

    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familial affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated.  
     
    Current State Police, Child Abuse, FBI clearances, a physical, and a TB test are required. Interested candidates should submit their cover letter, resume, statement of educational philosophy, and five professional references by May 9, 2022. Please send all inquiries and application materials via email to Kelly Rinehart, administrative assistant of the Early Childhood and Lower School division, at rinehart.k@harrisburgacademy.org.  
     
    About Harrisburg Academy  
    Established in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, the Academy is one of the first independent schools in America and the flagship private school in Central Pennsylvania. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth. Students, preschool through high school, excel in a challenging and diverse curriculum, and are well-rounded scholars and creative artists, exceptional athletes and talented musicians, and globally-minded philanthropists. They benefit from the enormous advantages of a small learning community each and every day that offers stimulating growth to prepare them for 21st Century success to learn boldly and to think analytically, creatively, and innovatively. More information at https://www.harrisburgacademy.org/.

  • Fifth Grade Teacher

    Harrisburg Academy is seeking a dynamic, innovative, and experienced fifth-grade teacher to join our expert faculty for the 2022-23 school year. Due to an increase in enrollment, Harrisburg Academy is expanding and opening additional lower school classrooms. As Harrisburg Academy is an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) candidate school, the successful candidate will be responsible for collaborating with the current lower school teachers to create and implement the core PYP curriculum in their own self-contained classroom, as well as leading the fifth-grade Exhibition. To support the school's mission of improving both the global and local community, we actively encourage applicants with a broad range of experiences including involvement in international schools.
       
    Preferred Qualifications include:  
    • Elementary Education Degree  
    • Previous classroom teaching experience; 3-year minimum preferred 
    • PYP Training and experience leading the Exhibition are highly desired 
    • Expertise in concept-based education and an inquiry mindset   
    • Commitment to building student agency and supporting student action
    • Competence in connecting with students and creating an inclusive classroom community 
    • Commitment to actively participate in collaborative planning 
    • Competence in connecting with parents 
    • Organized and purposeful about materials and lesson plans    
    • Collaboration with faculty and administration  
    • Excellence in classroom management techniques, experience with Responsive Classroom preferred 
    • Enthusiasm for professional development and further knowledge about pedagogy  
    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familial affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated.  
     
    Current State Police, Child Abuse, FBI clearances, a physical, and a TB test are required. Interested candidates should submit their cover letter and resume by May 31, 2022.  Please send all inquiries and application materials via e-mail to Kelly Rinehart, administrative assistant of the Early Childhood and Lower School division, at rinehart.k@harrisburgacademy.org.  
     
    About Harrisburg Academy  
    Established in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, the Academy is one of the first independent schools in America and the flagship private school in Central Pa. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth. Students, preschool through high school, excel in a challenging and diverse curriculum, and are well-rounded scholars and creative artists, exceptional athletes and talented musicians, and globally-minded philanthropists. They benefit from the enormous advantages of a small learning community each and every day that offers stimulating growth to prepare them for 21st Century success to learn boldly and to think analytically, creatively, and innovatively. More information at https://www.harrisburgacademy.org/

  • Early Childhood Assistant Teachers

    Harrisburg Academy is currently seeking early childhood assistant teachers for the 2022-23 school year. We are looking for qualified individuals with high energy who love working with young children.  The positions involve assisting the lead teacher with all classroom activities and classroom management as well as the potential for supervisory responsibilities for before and after school care.  Candidates should feel comfortable leading learning activities, communicating with parents, and organizing school activities.  The successful candidates must have an applicable education degree and/or experience working with the early childhood age level.  Co-curricular interests in the arts or athletics are highly desirable.   
      
    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familial affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated.   
      
    Current State Police, Child Abuse, FBI clearances, a physical, and a TB test are required. Interested candidates should submit their cover letter and resume by June 15, 2022. Please send all inquiries and application materials via e-mail to Kelly Rinehart, administrative assistant of the Early Childhood and Lower School division, at rinehart.k@harrisburgacademy.org.   
      
    About Harrisburg Academy   
    Established in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, the Academy is one of the first independent schools in America and the flagship private school in Central Pennsylvania. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth. Students, preschool through high school, excel in a challenging and diverse curriculum, and are well-rounded scholars and creative artists, exceptional athletes and talented musicians, and globally-minded philanthropists. They benefit from the enormous advantages of a small learning community each and every day that offers stimulating growth to prepare them for 21st Century success to learn boldly and to think analytically, creatively, and innovatively. More information at https://www.harrisburgacademy.org/

  • Learning Specialist and Coordinator of Instructional Support

    Harrisburg Academy is seeking a dynamic and innovative educator to serve as our Learning Specialist and Coordinator of Instructional Support beginning in the 2022-23 school year. In collaboration with the Division Heads and Director of Counseling, the Learning Specialist will provide direct support to students to help facilitate academic growth as well as lead the Student Support Team. The successful candidate will possess extensive classroom experience and a master’s degree in special education or a related field. The Learning Specialist will have experience with children who have a range of abilities as well as expertise in offering instructional support to students for both academic and executive functioning needs. The Learning Specialist will work closely with teachers and members of the Student Support Team to create, manage, and help implement strategies and learning plans to meet the needs of individual students. 
     
    Essential duties and responsibilities include:
    • Lead the Student Support Teams (SST).
    • Manage SST caseload and documentation forms.
    • Collect and analyze appropriate data including factors contributing to student progress including classroom environment, instructional delivery, and student engagement to help teachers determine students’ areas of need.  
    • When applicable, attend student meetings with the local school district including evaluation and IEP meetings.
    • Assist in developing instructional strategies based on data.
    • Draft student accommodation plans.
    • Conduct instructional planning meetings with teachers based on student progress data.
    • Provide one-on-one and small-group support/instruction in order to help students develop effective learning strategies to promote academic improvement and build trusting relationships with students.
    • Act as a resource and provide professional development for faculty in the areas of learning differences, executive functions, and cognitive skill-building to implement best practices in teaching and learning.
    • Stay current with new developments in teaching methods and educational psychology.
    • Maintain professional relationships with the intermediate unit,  psychologists, and neuropsychologists in the area as a referral base and possess a solid understanding of processes related to psychoeducational testing and outcomes.
    Preferred qualifications include a proven record of:
    • Extensive knowledge of educational pedagogy, learning differences, and instructional strategies 
    • Facility with a variety of instructional methods and assessments
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a positive and proactive communication style
    • Ability to create a learning environment that addresses and supports each student’s needs
    • Competence in connecting with students and creating a healthy community culture
    • Competence in connecting with parents
    • Organized and purposeful about materials and plans  
    • Collaboration with faculty and administration
    • Bachelor's degree in Education or an applicable field is required, though a Master's is preferred.
    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, familial affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated.  
     
    Current State Police, Child Abuse, FBI clearances, a physical, and a TB test are required. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by May 13, 2022.  Please send all inquiries and application materials via e-mail to Kelly Rinehart, administrative assistant of the Early Childhood and Lower School division, at rinehart.k@harrisburgacademy.org.  
     
    About Harrisburg Academy  
    Established in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, the Academy is one of the first independent schools in America and the flagship private school in Central Pennsylvania. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth. Students, preschool through high school, excel in a challenging and diverse curriculum, and are well-rounded scholars and creative artists, exceptional athletes and talented musicians, and globally-minded philanthropists. They benefit from the enormous advantages of a small learning community each and every day that offers stimulating growth to prepare them for 21st Century success to learn boldly and to think analytically, creatively, and innovatively. More information at https://www.harrisburgacademy.org/. 

  • Director of College Counseling

    Harrisburg Academy offers a comprehensive college counseling program, which encompasses grades eighth through twelfth and exceeds industry practice. The Academy is seeking a dedicated, innovative, and experienced year-round director of college counseling who will be able to maintain and grow the current program. To support the school’s mission of improving both the global and local community, we actively encourage applicants with a broad range of experiences including involvement in international schools. 

    Essential duties and responsibilities include:
    • Advise and support all students and their families through the college search process
    • Counsel students on college options both domestically and internationally
    • Oversee and actively manage college application process for all students including writing individual letters of recommendation and essay development
    • Coordinate and execute annual college fair and parent programming
    • Teach seminar classes related to the college application process
    • Schedule visits with college representatives
    • Maintain accurate student data
    • Other duties as assigned 

    Preferred Qualifications include:
    • Bachelor’s degree, master’s degree preferred
    • Previous experience in a college admission office or at a school with a strong college counseling program; 5-year minimum
    • Member of NACAC, PACAC, NACAC state-affiliate, ACCIS, or other professional organization focused on college admission counseling
    • Deep knowledge of college admission trends, college profiles, and application trend data
    • Knowledgeable about the college application and financial aid processes
    • Experience with international admission processes and institutions overseas; UCAS preferred
    • Strong written, presentation, and communication skills
    • Competency with software programs and be willing to use Cialfo and other college counseling software

    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, familial affiliation, and any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated. 

    Current State Police, Child Abuse, FBI clearances, a physical, and a TB test are required. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by April 22, 2022. Please send all inquiries and application materials via email to Jen Graf, administrative assistant of the Middle and Upper Schools, at graf.j@harrisburgacademy.org.

    About Harrisburg Academy
    Established in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, Jr., the Academy is one of the first independent schools in America and the flagship private school in Central Pennsylvania. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth. Students, preschool through high school, excel in a challenging and diverse curriculum, and are well-rounded scholars and creative artists, exceptional athletes and talented musicians, and globally-minded philanthropists. They benefit from the enormous advantages of a small learning community each and every day that offers stimulating growth to prepare them for 21st Century success to learn boldly and to think analytically, creatively, and innovatively. More information at http://www.harrisburgacademy.org/

Part-Time Positions

List of 3 items.

  • Summer Camp Counselor

    Harrisburg Academy is seeking motivated individuals to serve as summer camp counselors for our program, Summer at the Academy. Summer camp counselors are responsible for helping to plan, follow, and implement lesson plans and activities, while assuring the safety and supervision of a specific group of children. This position will run from June 6-August 5.
     
    Requirements:
    • Must be 16 years of age
    • Availability to work 40 hours per week is preferred
    • Must obtain current State Police, child abuse, and FBI clearances
    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familiar affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated. 
     
    About Harrisburg AcademyEstablished in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, Jr., the Academy is one of the first independent school in America and the flagship private school in Central Pennsylvania. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth through all aspects of our programming.

  • After-School Care & Supervision (Early Childhood/Lower School)

    Hours: Monday through Friday, 2:30-5:30 p.m.*
     
    Position Summary
    The Extended Day Program provides a safe, fun, and enriching environment during after school hours each day for Harrisburg Academy students, using both organized and open-ended activities as students transition between their school day and home. 

    Responsibilities
    • Create a safe, nurturing environment where children can play and learn
    • Monitor and maintain playground areas and other school areas as assigned
    • Foster positive relationships with students, parents, and school faculty
    • Collaborate with co-teachers to plan and implement engaging age-appropriate activities for indoor and outdoor spaces
    • Regular communication with supervisors
    • Facilitate homework assistance activities
    • Prepare and distribute daily snack for EDP students
    Qualifications and Experience
    • Enjoy working with children in a less structured environment
    • Ability to build relationships with families and coworkers
    • Outstanding customer service skills
    • Strong organizational and record-keeping skills
    • Ability to multi-task and manage multiple situations effectively
    • CPR and First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain
    • Must Meet state specific guidelines for the role (clearances: PA State Police, Childline, FBI, Act 24)
    • Basic computer/technology skills
    • Able to move, see, and hear well enough to keep children safe as well as engage in physical activity with children
    • Ability to speak, read, and write English - additional languages a plus
    • Responsive Classroom approach
    • Ability to handle crisis situations, especially where children are involved
    • Ability to respond immediately to emergency situations
    Candidates also interested in substituting should indicate that in their cover letter to Ms. Kristina Yann, Director of Auxiliary Services. Harrisburg Academy is an equal opportunity employer. To apply, send a cover letter and resume via email only. No phone calls, please. Questions can be directed to the same email address. Criminal Record Clearances (PA Child Abuse/PA State Police/FBI Background Check) will be required.

    *additional hours during holidays and school breaks may be available

  • Substitute Teachers

    Harrisburg Academy is currently seeking substitute teachers for preschool through twelfth grade to work throughout the 2021-22 school year. Interested candidates should enjoy working with children of a variety of ages, possess good communication skills, demonstrate strong leadership and classroom management techniques, and model problem solving and peer mediation techniques. 
     
    Substitute teachers are expected to provide supervision and instruction and are responsible for the implementation of lesson plans, management of the classroom, and ensuring student learning. Applicants need to understand this position is on a need-by-basis and hours will vary depending on the institution’s daily needs.  Substitutes need to be prepared for phone calls or texts in the late evenings and early mornings to provide coverage for emergency situations as well as for pre-planned coverage. Substitute teachers are hourly employees.
     
    If you have a passion for teaching and want to work at an Independent school, consider joining our team. 

    Harrisburg Academy does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familial affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We seek candidates who hope to help foster a school environment where all people are valued and where all perspectives are respected and appreciated.   
      
    Current State Police, Child Abuse, FBI clearances, a physical, and a TB test are required. Interested candidates should submit their cover letter and resume via e-mail to Kelly Rinehart, administrative assistant to the Head of Early Childhood and Lower Schools, at rinehart.k@harrisburgacademy.org.   
      
    About Harrisburg Academy   
    Established in 1784 by Harrisburg founder John Harris, the Academy is one of the first independent schools in America and the flagship private school in Central Pennsylvania. At Harrisburg Academy, an outstanding, forward-thinking, hands-on education is paramount with students engaged on a unique journey of self-discovery, academic achievement, and social growth. Students, preschool through high school, excel in a challenging and diverse curriculum, and are well-rounded scholars and creative artists, exceptional athletes and talented musicians, and globally-minded philanthropists. They benefit from the enormous advantages of a small learning community each and every day that offers stimulating growth to prepare them for 21st Century success to learn boldly and to think analytically, creatively, and innovatively. More information at https://www.harrisburgacademy.org/. 

Harrisburg Academy