Empowering Students: Become a Social Studies Teacher at Chemawa Indian School
Are you a passionate educator looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Native American students? The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is currently seeking a committed Social Studies Teacher for the Chemawa Indian School located in Salem, Oregon. This position offers a unique chance to work within a culturally vibrant academic community, contributing to the academic and personal growth of tribal youth.
Job Responsibilities
As a Social Studies Teacher, your primary goal is to foster an environment conducive to learning and critical thinking. Your core duties will include:
- Instructional Planning: Developing daily lesson plans and yearly instructional outlines that align with academic standards.
- Classroom Engagement: Delivering interactive lessons that cater to diverse learning styles.
- Assessment: Utilizing criterion-referenced and standardized tests to monitor student progress.
- Counseling and Communication: Providing guidance to students and maintaining open communication with parents and guardians.
- Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate student records in compliance with BIE regulations.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several core criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Must maintain a valid teacher certification in the relevant state and subject area.
- Must successfully complete a background security investigation.
Salary and Pay Setting
Pay is determined following the selection process and is based on education level and experience. The pay scale generally correlates to the following levels:
| Pay Level | Education Requirement |
|---|---|
| 11 | Bachelor's Degree |
| 12 | Bachelor's + 15 grad hours |
| 13 | Bachelor's + 30 grad hours |
| 14 | Master's Degree |
| 15 | Master's + 15 grad hours |
| 16 | Master's + 30 grad hours |
| 17 | Doctorate |
Benefits
Federal employment with the BIE comes with a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and professional development opportunities. While government quarters are not provided and relocation expenses are not paid, the personal reward of educating tribal youth is significant.
Application Tips
- Check the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or fewer.
- Formatting Matters: Ensure margins are at least 0.5 inches and font size is 10-point or higher.
- Transcripts: Submit clear copies of your college transcripts that include the degree conferred.
- Indian Preference: If applicable, ensure Form BIA 4432 is correctly completed.
This role is more than a standard teaching job; it is an invitation to be part of a community that empowers students for life. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging and rewarding career in Salem, Oregon, submit your application today.
Why This Teacher (Social Studies) Job Matters
Shape the future of Native American youth as a Social Studies educator at the historic Chemawa Indian School.
Teacher (Social Studies) Job Overview
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is seeking a dedicated Social Studies Teacher for the Chemawa Indian School in Salem, Oregon. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality, culturally responsive instruction to students in a residential school environment. As a key member of the academic team, you will help foster the spiritual, mental, and physical growth of students through a comprehensive and engaging social studies curriculum. This is a school-year contract role requiring commitment, passion for education, and a desire to make a lasting impact on tribal youth.
Requirements for Teacher (Social Studies)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited educational institution
- Valid Teacher certification/licensure in the appropriate endorsement area (state-issued)
- Successful completion of a background security investigation
- Valid driver's license for incidental operation of government vehicles
- Registration with the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959)
Preferred Qualifications for Teacher (Social Studies)
- Experience in cross-cultural teaching environments
- Expertise in designing and implementing social studies curricula
- Proven track record of classroom management and student engagement
- Demonstrated proficiency in assessment and progress monitoring tools
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Access to a range of government-sponsored life and disability insurance plans
- ✓Participation in the federal leave system
💡 How to Apply Teacher (Social Studies) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Teacher (Social Studies) Job
- Ensure you have a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages (10-point font minimum).
- Gather your official or unofficial college transcripts.
- Obtain a copy of your valid state teacher license/certification.
- If claiming Indian Preference, ensure you have Form BIA 4432 completed by a tribal official.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the deadline.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; extra pages will be discarded.
- Ensure all uploaded transcripts are legible and include the full page, including the key.
- Be specific about your work experience, including total hours per week to qualify part-time status.
- Do not include photos on your resume.
- Double-check that all documents are not encrypted or password-protected, as this prevents automated processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote status. You must be present at the Chemawa Indian School in Salem, Oregon.
Is Indian Preference available?
Yes, qualified candidates may claim Indian Preference by submitting the appropriate BIA Form 4432.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, travel and relocation expenses will not be paid for this position.
What is the contract duration?
This is a school-year contract position that requires annual renewal.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, travel and relocation costs are the responsibility of the selectee.
Can I submit unofficial transcripts?
Yes, unofficial transcripts are accepted for initial application, but official transcripts will be required upon selection.
Job from Bureau Of Indian Education
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) provides high-quality education opportunities from early childhood through life. Their mission centers on honoring the diverse cultural and governmental contexts of tribal nations. By working at the Chemawa Indian School, you are joining an agency that emphasizes the "whole person" approach, valuing the spiritual, mental, physical, and cultural needs of every student.