Are you a good fit for UCS?

UCS is a school with a vision to implement four educational priorities: (1) to build a community within our school and connect with the local community, (2) to build a curriculum that is coherent, (3) to create a climate for learning, and (4) to demonstrate commitment to character. Everyone who works at and volunteers at UCS must share this vision. If this vision seems too difficult to commit to on a daily basis, then UCS is not the school for you.

In order to build a community, teachers must be comfortable with sharing ideas, collaborating with colleagues, connecting their classes (even across grade levels), and being open to other adults entering their classrooms to assist students.

In order to build a coherent curriculum, teachers must constantly research most-effective practices and teaching strategies, attend meaningful workshops to develop professionally, consult with colleagues at UCS and other schools, connect and collaborate with professionals in the community, plan ahead, and be prepared to utilize the teachable moment. Lastly, teachers must be effective in breaking down barriers to help students learn new and difficult material.

In order to create a climate for learning, teachers must creatively design and personalize the classroom space so that it is kid-friendly, warm, and inviting. Teachers must make their space inclusive, attractive, and organized. Multiple adults are in the classroom with the sole purpose of working with students. Student behavior should always be discussed with students in a private, non-threatening manner, and children must always be respected. Teachers should maintain control of the class but when chaos escalates, be able to hone in on the stimulant and quickly establish order. The classroom must be friendly, safe, and a place where learning is the priority at all times.

In order to demonstrate a commitment to character, each teacher must strive to be a walking example of the core virtues: honesty, respect, responsibility, compassion, self-discipline, perseverance, and giving. Teachers must also encourage service to others starting in the classroom.