Teacher - PSR

The Archdiocese of St. Louis strives to teach and share our faith, serve others, and foster unity throughout the St. Louis area.  Once a part of Kenrick-Glennon Seminary's campus, the Cardinal Rigali Center in Shrewsbury, MO is today the headquarters and curia (governing body) for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Job Summary

Ascension Catholic Church is seeking a faith-filled and dedicated PSR (Parish School of Religion) Teacher to support the faith formation of children and youth within the parish. The PSR Teacher is responsible for creating a welcoming learning environment, teaching Catholic doctrine and traditions in accordance with Church teachings, and helping students grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

This part-time position works collaboratively with the Director of Religious Education, parish staff, parents, and volunteers to support the parish's mission of evangelization and faith formation. The PSR Teacher serves as a positive role model of Catholic faith and Christian behavior while providing age-appropriate instruction and fostering an environment in which students can learn, participate, and grow spiritually.

Job Responsibilities

Religious Education and Instruction

• Teach assigned PSR classes using the approved curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional materials.
• Prepare and deliver engaging, age-appropriate lessons that communicate Catholic teachings, Scripture, prayer, sacraments, traditions, and moral development.
• Present Catholic doctrine accurately and in accordance with the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church.
• Help students develop a deeper understanding of their Catholic faith and encourage them to apply that faith to their daily lives.
• Encourage students to actively participate in class discussions, prayer experiences, Scripture activities, and other faith-formation opportunities.
• Support students in preparing for sacramental celebrations, as applicable.
• Encourage participation in parish life and opportunities for worship, service, fellowship, and spiritual growth.

Classroom Management and Student Engagement

• Foster a positive, respectful, welcoming, and faith-centered classroom environment.
• Establish and maintain appropriate classroom expectations and routines.
• Engage children and youth through meaningful, interactive, and age-appropriate learning activities.
• Encourage students to ask questions, participate in discussions, and develop a deeper understanding of their faith.
• Respond appropriately to individual student needs while maintaining a safe and productive learning environment.
• Promote respectful, compassionate, and Christ-centered interactions among students.

Student Records and Communication

• Maintain accurate student attendance records and other required documentation.
• Monitor student participation and progress and communicate significant concerns to the Director of Religious Education.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with parents and guardians regarding classroom activities, expectations, and student participation.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality regarding student and family information.
• Promptly communicate significant behavioral, academic, safety, or other concerns to the appropriate parish staff.

Collaboration and Program Support

• Collaborate with the Director of Religious Education, catechists, volunteers, parish staff, parents, and other ministry leaders to support the parish's religious education program.
• Participate in catechist meetings, training sessions, retreats, and faith-formation opportunities as required.
• Assist with religious education programs, parish events, sacramental preparation, prayer experiences, and other activities as requested.
• Support the planning and implementation of activities that strengthen students' connection to the parish community.
• Contribute to a welcoming, supportive, and faith-filled environment for students and families.

Catholic Faith and Ministry

• Promote and model Catholic values, teachings, traditions, and Christian behavior.
• Serve as a positive role model for children and youth through personal conduct, attitude, and interactions with others.
• Support and uphold the mission and teachings of the Catholic Church and the parish.
• Encourage students to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and grow in prayer and participation in the life of the Church.
• Support the parish's mission of evangelization, discipleship, and faith formation.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for sharing the Catholic faith and fostering spiritual growth in young people.

Job Requirements

• Ability to present Catholic teachings accurately, clearly, and in an age-appropriate and engaging manner.
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills.
• Ability to create and maintain a positive, respectful, and faith-centered learning environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, volunteers, parish staff, and ministry leaders.
• Ability to work collaboratively with parish staff, volunteers, students, and families.
• Dependability, professionalism, sound judgment, and a commitment to serving the parish community.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Ability to adapt instruction and activities to the developmental and individual needs of children and youth.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish positive relationships with students and families.
• Commitment to evangelization, discipleship, and lifelong faith formation.
• Enthusiasm for sharing the Catholic faith and fostering spiritual growth in children and youth.
• Practicing Catholic committed to the teachings, mission, and values of the Catholic Church.
• Knowledge of Catholic doctrine, Scripture, sacraments, traditions, and prayer.
• Previous teaching, catechetical, ministry, religious education, or volunteer experience preferred.
• Experience working with children or youth in a school, parish, classroom, or ministry setting preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage children and youth in meaningful and age-appropriate faith formation.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Additional religious education, theology, catechetical, or education coursework preferred.
• Willingness and ability to complete required Archdiocesan training and Safe Environment requirements.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.  
 
Pre-Employment Screening 
All candidates receiving an employment offer must submit a pre-employment screening. The screening will include criminal background check, Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen, employment and educational licensure/certification verification, health screening, and any other screenings deemed necessary for employment. Any offer would be contingent upon successful completion of any required screening.