Teacher - PSR

Job Summary

The Parish School of Religion (PSR) Teacher is responsible for providing engaging, age-appropriate religious instruction that supports the spiritual, moral, and personal development of students. The teacher helps students deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith, explore Church teachings and traditions, and develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

The PSR Teacher creates a welcoming, respectful, and supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, participate in discussions, and grow in their faith. As a positive role model, the teacher supports the mission and values of the parish by fostering a classroom environment rooted in respect, compassion, integrity, and understanding.

Job Responsibilities

Religious Instruction and Faith Formation

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons in accordance with the parish's religious education curriculum and guidelines.
• Teach Catholic beliefs, Scripture, Church teachings, sacraments, prayers, traditions, and liturgical practices.
• Help students develop an understanding of Catholic values and apply them to everyday life.
• Encourage students to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and grow in their understanding of prayer and worship.
• Use engaging teaching methods, activities, discussions, and resources to support student learning and participation.
• Prepare lesson materials and classroom activities in advance of each session.

Classroom Management and Student Engagement

• Establish and maintain a welcoming, respectful, and organized classroom environment.
• Encourage active participation, thoughtful questions, and meaningful discussions about faith.
• Promote positive behavior, mutual respect, cooperation, and personal responsibility.
• Adapt teaching approaches to accommodate students' varying ages, learning styles, and developmental needs.
• Support students in developing compassion, empathy, integrity, and respect for others.

Spiritual Development and Faith Witness

• Serve as a positive role model of Catholic faith and Christian living.
• Foster students' spiritual and moral development through prayer, reflection, Scripture, and faith-based activities.
• Encourage participation in parish life, liturgical celebrations, service opportunities, and other faith-building experiences, as appropriate.
• Demonstrate respect, patience, kindness, and understanding in all interactions with students.
• Support the parish's mission of evangelization and faith formation.

Communication and Collaboration

• Communicate effectively and professionally with the Director of Religious Education, parish staff, parents, and guardians regarding student participation, progress, and concerns.
• Collaborate with parish leadership and fellow catechists to support consistent and effective religious education.
• Participate in teacher meetings, training sessions, and ongoing catechetical formation as required.
• Maintain appropriate records of attendance, lesson completion, and other documentation as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow parish policies regarding communication and student information.

Student Safety and Well-Being

• Provide a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment for all students.
• Follow all parish, diocesan, and applicable child protection policies and procedures.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and promptly report concerns, incidents, or suspected abuse in accordance with applicable policies and laws.
• Complete all required child-safety training and employment screenings.

Job Requirements

Education and Faith Formation

• Knowledge of the Catholic faith, including Scripture, Church teachings, sacraments, and traditions.
• Completion of, or willingness to participate in, required diocesan catechist training and ongoing faith formation.
• Previous catechetical training or coursework in religious education preferred.

Experience

• Previous experience teaching, catechizing, mentoring, or working with children and youth preferred.
• Experience planning and facilitating age-appropriate learning activities is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and classroom management skills.
• Ability to explain Catholic teachings clearly and in an age-appropriate manner.
• Ability to create an engaging, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Patience, flexibility, dependability, and a genuine interest in helping students grow in faith.
• Ability to work collaboratively with parish staff, families, and fellow catechists.
• Commitment to the teachings and mission of the Catholic Church.