Kindergarten Teacher 2026-2027
Apache Junction Unified School District
Four Peaks Elementary School
Full-Time, Exempt | 2026 - 2027 School Year
Salary Starting at $46,700+ (DOE)
Teach With Purpose. Inspire With Heart. Put Kids First.
Apache Junction Unified School District is seeking a caring, creative, and student-centered Kindergarten Teacher who believes deeply in our Kids First mission. We are looking for an educator who understands that early learning sets the foundation for a child's entire educational journey- and who brings joy, patience, and strong instructional practice to the classroom.
This is an opportunity to join a district committed to innovation, belonging, and excellence. If you are a collaborative problem solver with strong instructional skills, emotional intelligence, and a passion for helping young learners thrive, we want to meet you.
Be part of an elementary school that reflects your passion- whether it's STEM, Dual Language, Classical Education, or Business & Leadership, we have a campus where your strengths shine.
What You'll Lead and Support
• Create a nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Plan and deliver high-quality, standards-aligned instruction in literacy, numeracy, social-emotional learning, and foundational skills
• Use data to monitor student progress and adjust instruction to meet individual needs
• Support positive behavior and classroom routines that promote safety, belonging, and independence
• Collaborate with grade-level teams and participate in ongoing professional learning
• Maintain accurate records and comply with district, state, and federal requirements
• Contribute to a positive school culture rooted in collaboration, curiosity, and connection
• Model professionalism, empathy, and a Kids First mindset in all interactions
What You Bring
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Valid Arizona Teaching Certificate (Early Childhood or Elementary Education) or eligibility to obtain one
• Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Strong understanding of early childhood development and foundational literacy and numeracy instruction
• Ability to build trust, communicate with empathy, and maintain positive relationships
• Skill in creating structured, joyful, and developmentally appropriate learning environments
• Commitment to inclusive practices and meeting diverse learner needs
• Emotional intelligence, patience, and calm leadership in a fast-paced classroom
• Ability to collaborate effectively and contribute to a team-oriented school culture
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary: $46,700
Experience Credit: Additional compensation for verified years of experience
Advanced Education Stipends:
• Master's degree
• Doctorate (Ph.D./Ed.D.)
• Approved additional certifications or endorsements
Benefits Package Includes:
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) � mandatory participation
• 403(b) retirement savings options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• University partnerships offering discounted continuing education and advanced degrees
• Leave benefits and wellness supports (available after one year of service)
Physical & Work Environment Expectations
This role requires regular communication, movement around the classroom, and the ability to stand, walk, bend, sit, and occasionally lift up to 30 pounds. The work environment is active, child-centered, and fast paced. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.
ADA Statement
AJUSD is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the district will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities to ensure equal access to employment opportunities, essential job functions, and the benefits and privileges of employment.
Our Commitment to Equity
Apache Junction Unified School District does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic in its programs, activities, or employment practices.
Join a Team That Puts Kids First
If you are passionate about early learning, committed to student success, and ready to teach with heart, innovation, and integrity, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of AJUSD.
The Apache Junction Unified School District expects and holds itself accountable for nothing less than excellence in everything we do. The district’s vision is driven by a deep-seated, honest commitment we have made to make sure our school system provides all students a quality opportunity to learn, within safe campuses, with the highest quality teachers, while participating in advanced and enriched courses that allow students to experience 21st Century Learning.
The driving force behind this vision is simple. Students graduating from Apache Junction Unified School District must be prepared to be competitive in a global community, a global community that demands our children be better prepared tomorrow than they are today. Our students are tomorrow’s doctors, contractors, software developers, teachers, leaders and parents. Today’s children are the men and women of tomorrow who will be responsible for making sure democracy flourishes and our nation remains strong.
In order to ensure that our students are successful in a global economy, our school system continues to evolve and improve. We constantly strive to adjust the way we work with our students, the way we hold ourselves accountable as we increase the level of expectation we have for ourselves and for our students. We are committed to improving the rigor in our classrooms, the resources and materials our teachers and students have to work with, the safety on our campuses and our relationships with the community. It is our responsibility to provide all students a quality educational experience; an educational experience that is well rounded and prepares our children to become members of our local, national, and global community.
