Frequently Asked Questions

Start date: July 1 2025 Falk Laboratory School, a coeducational K-8 laboratory school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, seeks a full-time Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. This is an exciting opportunity for a visionary professional to shape strategy related to JEDI work in a K-8 laboratory school. This is a 12-month position with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2025. Responsibilities and Duties: Instruction and Implementation Collaborate with Falk faculty in developing and implementing inclusive, social justice-focused curricula and programs at all grade levels. Coordinate and teach social justice lessons for middle school students. Develop and implement a social justice curriculum for K-5 classrooms. School Strategy With the Director and other members of the administrative leadership team, build a shared vision for school improvement with faculty and staff. Oversee the planning of activities and putting programs in place to ensure the attainment of the School’s progressive educational mission and philosophy surrounding justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Identify, analyze, and apply research findings (e.g., practical school correlates) to promote school improvement. Chair search committees to fill teaching vacancies within the middle school division and work with the leadership team to orient new faculty to the School and its culture/systems. Communicate with the various constituencies that make up the School community. In collaboration with the Director and administrative leadership team, work to establish goals for and plan professional development activities and weekly faculty meetings. Contribute to the school’s long-term faculty and staff recruitment and retention strategy. Student and Family Concerns Develop effective and trusting working relationships with Falk students, faculty, staff, and families, and help the community respond meaningfully to diversity and equity-related issues as they arise, particularly within the student body. Ensure student discipline is appropriate, equitable, and just, and follow the Student/Family Handbook and Code of Conduct, as well as within Falk’s progressive educational mission and ethos. Conduct conferences about student and school issues with parents, students, and teachers. School and Community Relations Build relationships with diversity coordinators and leaders at other schools—both independent and public—as well as the University of Pittsburgh Office of Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion and other off-campus cultural resource organizations to support the learning experiences of Falk’s students. Confidently articulate and share the school’s progressive mission, vision, and values with and to the community. Demonstrate awareness of school and community needs and initiate activities to meet those needs. Use appropriate and practical techniques to advance inclusion and belonging for all. Assist with prospective family school tours during the admissions season. Attend admissions and/or advancement-related outreach events and activities, such as the welcome back family picnic, parent night, prospective parent information events (daytime and/or evening, where applicable), family nights, reunions, and so on. Professional/Personal Demeanor, Comportment, and Growth Continue developing and attaining the necessary professional skills appropriate to the senior leader position in a school setting. Demonstrate professional, ethical, and responsible behavior at all times. Serve as a role model/exemplar for all faculty and staff. Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills and have the ability to lead meetings with a variety of stakeholders. Additional Other duties as assigned. Working Conditions: Maintain emotional control under stress; frequent prolonged and irregular hours, with the ability to be on call in high-intensity/crises after-hours. This role requires the individual to move around the school to various rooms frequently. Salary range is competitive and commensurate with experience. Falk Laboratory School, a department in the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh, offers excellent benefits. Please direct questions to the search committee chair, Dr. Jill Sarada, at jill.sarada@pitt.edu. The review of applications will begin in the early Spring of 2025. This is a 12-month position with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2025. Minimum requirements Being an experienced and visionary practitioner in leading transformative, organizational change through a JEDI lens Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred. Strong preference will be given to individuals who have experience in one or more of the following: Administrative and/or program management Classroom teaching Working with students in grades K-8 Materials can be uploaded to join.pitt.edu. For full consideration, please submit: Letter of application A Resume An educational philosophy Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than two years) Unofficial transcripts (candidates may be requested to provide official transcripts at the time of hire) Copy of PA instructional certificate or equivalent Offer of employment is contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before commencement of appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check. Candidates must also submit proof of a negative TB test before their first work day. Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form. Official Job Posting

Start date: August 2025 Falk Laboratory School, a coeducational K-8 laboratory school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh, seeks a full-time, experienced, and dynamic Spanish teacher (K-8) for the next academic year beginning August 2025.  The educator filling this role will be responsible for continuing to develop a program that features progressive ideas about Spanish instruction.  The successful candidate will have a vision for dynamic approaches to Spanish education, excellent collaborative skills, and a willingness to support and engage in educational research.  Demonstrated proficiency in speaking, writing, and reading Spanish will be expected.   A Bachelor's Degree is required. A Master's Degree or demonstrated work towards a master's degree in Spanish teacher education or a related field is preferred. Teaching experience with elementary or middle school students is required—knowledge and experience with ACTFL standards and proficiency levels are preferred. Broad experience is advantageous, as participation across disciplines and grade levels is valued at our school; specific experience with middle school students is preferred. Highly creative work experience in Spanish Language pedagogy is an asset. For full consideration, submit (1) a letter of application, (2) a resume, (3) an educational philosophy, (4) three letters of recommendation, (5) transcripts, (6) PA teaching certification.  The salary range is competitive and commensurate with experience, starting at $50,000. Falk School, affiliated with the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh, offers excellent benefits.  Please direct questions to the search committee chair, Ms. Diana Dimitrovski, at dxdst7@pitt.edu. The review of applications will begin in the early Spring of 2025 and continue until the position is filled.                    The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Offers of employment are contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, and proof of a TB test.  Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements stated on the commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form. Official Job Posting

Start date: August 2025 The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is currently seeking a dynamic leader to serve as Director and Principal, University Laboratory High School (Uni High). Uni High is a prestigious, selective-admission public laboratory school that serves as a model for Innovative education. As the primary leader of Uni High, the Director will provide strategic and educational leadership in alignment with the school’s mission and the broader vision of the University, overseeing all operational aspects of the school. The position reports to the Provost’s Office. The position is formally posted on the Illinois job board through 6:00 p.m. (CST) on March 7, 2025. Please be assured that all inquiries, applications, and correspondence will remain confidential. I hope you will consider this exciting position. Karl Radnitzer

Start date: August 2025 Falk Laboratory School, a coeducational K-8 laboratory school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is seeking three (3) full-time K-5 Educators beginning in the next academic year. This position will start in August, 2025. Candidates should have successful teaching experience in an elementary classroom setting and experience in unit planning in all relevant content areas. The candidate must be an individual who is sensitive to children’s differences and needs while also understanding the importance of developing strong working relationships with families. The candidate must be a teacher who exhibits an authentic passion and enthusiasm for progressive education, and one who understands and appreciates the value of inquiry and exploration. The candidate must be a self-motivated, life-long learner who is willing to work in an intellectually demanding setting with high expectations. The position involves working in close collaboration with colleagues and student teachers, so strong communication skills with an openness to ideas and perspectives are essential. A Bachelor's Degree is required. A Master's Degree or demonstrated work towards a master's degree in teacher education or a related field is preferred. Broad experience is advantageous, as partnering across disciplines and grade levels are valued at our school. Highly creative work experience in the field of elementary education is an asset. Materials can be uploaded to join.pitt.edu. For full consideration, please submit: Letter of application A Resume An educational philosophy Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than two years) Unofficial transcripts (candidates may be requested to provide official transcripts at the time of hire) Copy of PA instructional certificate or equivalent The salary range is competitive and commensurate with experience. Falk Laboratory School, a department in the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh, offers excellent benefits. Letters of inquiry or questions can be sent to Autumn Dillaman at amd973@pitt.edu. The review of applications will begin early in the Spring semester and continue until the position is filled. Offer of employment is contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before commencement of appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check. Candidates must also submit proof of a negative TB test before their first work day. Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form. The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and Offer of employment is contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before commencement of appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check. Candidates must also submit proof of a negative TB test before their first work day. Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form. The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Falk Laboratory School, a coeducational K-8 school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, seeks one full-time Educational Support teacher to work collaboratively with students, teachers, and families to help facilitate positive interactions within the school environment, allowing all students to integrate behaviorally into an inclusive school setting. The Behavior Intervention Specialist has the training to address behaviors that create barriers to learning and healthy relationships in the school. This person will provide direct and consultative services in the school setting for responsive, preventative, and interventive purposes. In addition, the Educational Support teacher works directly with identified students to develop and self-sustain positive behaviors that support their growth academically and behaviorally. Under the supervision of the director of Student Services and Division directors, the Behavior Intervention teacher will provide diversified strategies and activities specifically designed for identified students.  This position will start in August 2024. Responsibilities: Collaborating with school personnel to communicate and uphold universal school expectations to effectively include social validity and equitable support. Working with faculty to develop classroom practices that support student growth and engagement. When necessary, identify, measure, and respond to challenging behaviors, including antecedents and follow-through. Facilitating team meetings with the identified student’s teachers and parents to complete a Functional Behavioral Assessment. Attending regular Student Services team meetings and collaborating with other members (learning specialists, counselors, and the Director of Student Services) to determine effective plans for individual students. Develop a repertoire of assessment strategies consistent with instructional goals, teaching methods, and individual student needs to assess student behavior skills and understandings accurately. Establishing relationships and communicating with teachers, administrators, and family members. Work as a team member to establish and show commitment towards a restorative practices program at Falk. Other duties as assigned Qualifications Experience supporting behavior in either a school or therapeutic setting is advantageous. Knowledge of function-based intervention planning for developing positive interactions across all environments. Knowledge of techniques needed to complete effective Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA), function–based interventions, and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP). Knowledge in using assessment and assessment data to inform instruction and prescribe work plans for individual students. Ascribes to the philosophy that all children can succeed and demonstrates the commitment to do what is necessary to make this a reality. Demonstrates an inquiry stance approach to behavioral support. Strong knowledge of culturally responsive practices. Possesses training to take relevant data to help track and modify inappropriate behavior. Prepared to develop, implement, and maintain student data collection and progress monitoring system for students with behavior disorders and other exceptionalities. A commitment to restorative practices, diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required; Master's Degree in special education (or related field) preferred Elementary/middle school experience is advantageous, and interesting work and/or educational experience in psychology and counseling is beneficial for the position. Materials can be uploaded to join.pitt.edu. For full consideration, please submit:  Letter of application  A Resume An educational philosophy statement Three letters of recommendation Official transcripts PA instructional certificate or equivalent The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The starting salary for this position is $50,000 with additional credit based on experience. Offer of employment is contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before commencement of appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check.  Candidates must also submit proof of a negative TB test before their first day of work if hired.  Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form.

FANNY EDEL FALK LABORATORY SCHOOL University of Pittsburgh 4060 Allequippa Street Pittsburgh, PA 15261 www.falkschool.pitt.edu ​ Position Announcement Director of Student Services (K-8) Falk Laboratory School, a coeducational K-8 school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, seeks one full-time Director of Student Services to provide leadership and support in meeting the tiered needs of students in behavioral development, academic development, and student social, emotional, and mental well-being. This person analyzes the needs of students across all levels at Falk Laboratory School and assists personnel in developing, implementing, and exploring the ongoing effectiveness of school counseling and educational support. This is a 12-month position with an anticipated start date of Summer 2024. Specific responsibilities include: Communicating with Intermediate Unit (IU)/other external supports. Coordinating student evaluations and referrals. Collecting and maintaining student data. Facilitating meetings with families, students, and teachers. Overseeing educational support funds. Planning and coordinating professional development for student services team members and Falk faculty when applicable. Coordinating with external service providers (doctors, etc.). Ensuring continuity of care for students. Developing long-term strategic goals for the student services team and serving as a strategic advisor to the School Director and member of the School Administrative Leadership Group. Working with other administrators to continue developing and refining tiers of support and code of conduct. Supervising student services team members, including 7 full-time faculty members comprising counselors, specialists, and interventionists. Work with division directors to ensure classroom teachers implement student accommodation plans. Supporting learning differentiation in classrooms Developing and managing student support teacher schedules to meet each student's instructional needs and priorities. Regularly updating other academic teams on the needs and progress of students receiving support. Being in partnership with student households to ensure continuity of services both in and outside the School Salary range is competitive and commensurate with experience. Falk Laboratory School, a department in the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh, offers excellent benefits. Please direct any questions to the search committee chair, Dr. Jill Sarada, at jill.sarada@pit.edu. The review of applications will begin in the Spring of 2024 and continue until the position is filled. Qualifications Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead people and provide direction. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in Student Services and its best practices. Knowledge of federal and state legislation related to educational programming for students with needs, IDEA, Title II, Title IV. Understanding of child development, cultural diversity, and family systems. Ability to communicate effectively with students and colleagues. Ability to collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a diverse workplace with your ideas and experience. Excellent time management skills. Ability to work as an independent self-starter. Ability to be flexible and adapt as needed. Demonstrates an open-mindedness, curiosity, and ability to hold multiple perspectives. Minimum requirements Master’s degree in special education, counseling, or similar study area. Minimum 9 years classroom experience; administrative leadership experience preferred. Materials can be uploaded to join.pit.edu. For full consideration, please submit: Letter of application A Resume An educational philosophy that includes ideal classroom experiences in language arts Three letters of recommendation Official transcripts PA instructional certificate or equivalent The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Offer of employment is contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before commencement of appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check. If hired, candidates must also submit proof of a negative TB test before their first day of work. Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form. For full consideration, please submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae/resume, an educational philosophy, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and PA instructional certificate or equivalent. The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Start date: July 1, 2025 Falk Laboratory School, a coeducational K-8 laboratory school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, seeks a full-time Middle School Division Director. The Division Director is the academic and administrative leader of the Middle School division and is responsible for working with students, parents, faculty, staff, curriculum, and program. This is a 12-month position with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2025. Responsibilities and Duties: Instructional Management Monitor curricular content, classroom practices, and pedagogical approaches to ensure that program activities are commensurate with Falk’s mission, vision, and values as an inquiry-based, constructivist, progressive laboratory school for children in middle school grades (6-8). Provide instructional resources, materials, and formative and summative professional feedback to support faculty in delivering instruction that aligns with Falk’s mission, vision, and values as an inquiry-based, constructivist, progressive school for children in middle school grades. Team Supervision and Leadership Foster collegiality and team building between and amongst faculty and staff. Encourage their active involvement in decision-making in their respective areas of concern. Serve as a primary liaison between the middle school division and the Director, faculty, staff, students, parents, and larger communities (Falk, SOE, University of Pittsburgh). Communicate and promote expectations for high-level performance to faculty and students. Recognize excellence and achievement. Ensure the effective and quick resolution of conflicts. School Strategy With the Director and other members of the administrative leadership team, build a shared vision for school improvement with faculty and staff. Overseeing the planning of activities and putting programs in place to ensure the attainment of the School’s progressive educational mission and philosophy. Identify, analyze, and apply research findings (e.g., practical school correlates) to promote school improvement. Faculty Recruitment, Retention & Growth Chair search committees to fill teaching vacancies within the middle school division and work with the leadership team to orient new faculty to the School and its culture/systems. Establish annual goals with faculty concerning professional development and growth, instructional strategies, classroom management. Communicate with the various constituencies that make up the School community. Observe teachers in their practice, record observations, and conduct pre- and post-observation debrief conferences with individual teachers. Make recommendations to the Director on retention, promotion, termination, suspension, or non-renewal of faculty. In collaboration with the Director and administrative leadership team, work to establish goals for and plan professional development activities and weekly faculty meetings. Stay up-to-date on the University of Pittsburgh faculty collective bargaining agreement concerning current and future personnel matters. Student and Family Concerns Work with faculty and students to develop student discipline management systems that result in positive student behavior, enhance the school climate, and remain firmly within Falk’s progressive educational mission and ethos as a school. Ensure student discipline is appropriate, equitable, and just, and follow the Student/Family Handbook and Code of Conduct, as well as within Falk’s progressive educational mission and ethos. Conduct conferences about student and school issues with parents, students, and teachers. School and Community Relations Confidently articulate and share the school’s progressive mission, vision, and values with and to the community. Demonstrate awareness of school and community needs and initiate activities to meet those needs. Use appropriate and practical techniques to encourage community and family involvement, including composing semi-regular middle school newsletters and other communications. Assist with prospective family school tours during the admissions season. Attend admissions and/or advancement-related outreach events and activities, such as the welcome back family picnic, parent night, prospective parent information events (daytime and/or evening, where applicable), family nights, reunions, and so on. Participate in other community events related to Middle School, such as high school fairs, graduation, etc. Professional/Personal Demeanor, Comportment, and Growth Continue developing and attaining the necessary professional skills appropriate to the senior leader position in a school setting. Demonstrate professional, ethical, and responsible behavior at all times. Serve as a role model/exemplar for all faculty and staff. Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills and have the ability to lead meetings with a variety of stakeholders. Additional Other duties as assigned. Working Conditions: Maintain emotional control under stress; frequent prolonged and irregular hours, with the ability to be on call in high-intensity/crises after-hours. This role requires the individual to move around the school to various rooms frequently. Salary range is competitive and commensurate with experience. Falk Laboratory School, a department in the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh, offers excellent benefits. Please direct questions to the search committee chair, Dr. Jill Sarada, at jill.sarada@pitt.edu. The review of applications will begin in the Summer of 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Minimum requirements Master’s degree in education. Minimum 9 years of classroom experience; administrative leadership experience preferred. Experience working with middle school preferred. Materials can be uploaded to join.pitt.edu. For full consideration, please submit: Letter of application Resume An educational philosophy Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than two years) Unofficial transcripts (candidates may be requested to provide official transcripts at the time of hire) Copy of PA instructional certificate or equivalent Offer of employment is contingent on the candidate satisfactorily obtaining and passing the following before commencement of appointment: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check. If hired, candidates must also submit proof of a negative TB test before their first work day. Also, as Act 168 of 2014 requires, the candidate must satisfy the requirements on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release Form. The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.