UNIVERSITY LIGGETT SCHOOL \ OUR SCHOOL
\ OUR SCHOOL
Join our Team!
University Liggett School’s faculty and staff of 126 includes master teachers, alumni, recent college graduates, and business, communications, and education professionals with decades of successful experience in independent schools. More than 50 of our full-time faculty hold advanced degrees in their fields. Many are also active as successful writers, artists, scientists, and lecturers in their own fields, as well as being committed to the community and social service in the Detroit area.
Our faculty enjoy the flexibility of small class sizes (with an 8:1 student/teacher ratio, the average class size is 14).
All teaching employees are supported by the Heads of each division, their peers, and the Head of School. Ample professional development opportunities are provided by school administration and faculty are encouraged to pursue additional opportunities at any point in their careers at University Liggett School. Successful teaching applicants are able to support the students through their involvement in the arts, athletics and after school programs.
University Liggett School is seeking teachers with a minimum of three years of teaching experience in their field. A degree in the teaching subject area is mandatory. We are looking for educators who are confident in their content area knowledge, adept with the integration of technology, invigorated by the process of collaboration and experienced in implementing inquiry-based lessons that put students at the center of their learning.
If you are interested in exploring employment with University Liggett School, send the requested information to the appropriate person listed on the job posting.
Faculty positions
About University Liggett School:
The oldest independent co-educational day school in Michigan, University Liggett School is among the preeminent PreK-12 institutions in the Midwest. University Liggett School is known for providing the kind of innovative and exploratory experiences that connect a diverse student body with their learning in dynamic and engaging ways. It is an inspiring place where ideas and possibilities abound. Like any school, there are traditions that form the foundation of our work in the community, and our foundation is strong. This guiding philosophy is supported by a rich array of co-curricular programs.
Position Summary:
University Liggett School seeks a full-time, experienced English teacher.
Department Philosophy:
All students in the Upper School complete Core 1 in the 9th grade and Core 2 in the 10th grade. These classes include an introduction to MLA requirements and extensive practice with reading closely, annotating, and writing analytical and other types of papers. In the 11th and 12th grades, students choose from a slate of semester-long elective offerings. The seminar method is used in literature classes, which emphasize reading rich and complex texts and writing analytical papers. Writing electives taught on a regular basis include Craft of Writing, which reinforces basic skills and emphasizes the art of the essay, Creative Writing, which contributes (along with independent submissions) to our award-winning literary magazine, and Nonfiction Writing, our journalism class that produces articles for the school’s student newspaper.
Responsibilities:
- Teach four or five sections of English, primarily in the Upper School and likely to include both Core and elective classes
- Create a class environment that is devoted to close reading of complex texts, thoughtful discussion, and analytical writing
- Create an equitable and inclusive class environment that promotes integrity, respect, and empathy
- Design writing assignments that stretch student thinking and imagination
- Scaffold writing assignments effectively and respond thoughtfully and promptly to student writing
- Collaborate with colleagues and engage in department discussions about pedagogy and other concerns
- Participate actively in advancing the English department’s curriculum and The Liggett Approach
- Serve as an upper school advisor
- Communicate thoughtfully, professionally, and clearly with parents
- Participate actively and positively in the life of the school
Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree or higher in English or an equivalent field
- Enthusiasm for upper school students and an understanding of their developmental needs
- A thoughtful and engaging approach to teaching, learning, and assessment
- A growth mindset about teaching practices and an eagerness to work toward professional goals and development
- A keen desire to work in a collaborative, inclusive, and student-centered environment
- Ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds to develop healthy, supportive, and responsive relationships
- Strong writer, reader, and speaker
- Enthusiasm for reading a wide range of texts outside of teaching
- Eager willingness to support and to be present in the life of the school
- Facility with technology in the classroom
Contact Person:
Qualified candidates should send the following to Shernaz Minwalla, Head of Upper School, at sminwalla@uls.org:
- A letter of interest
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Responses to the following prompts with a video, writing, or an artifact:
- Describe a recent professional development experience you participated in and its impact upon your practice.
- What is the most significant pedagogical shift you have made in your practice from the beginning of your career to today?
- What role does assessment play in your classroom?
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
University Liggett School is committed to a culturally diverse faculty and student body. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by applicable federal or Michigan law. Candidates from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent schools are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
About University Liggett School
The oldest independent co-educational day school in Michigan, University Liggett School is among the preeminent PreK-12 institutions in the Midwest. University Liggett School is known for providing the kind of innovative and exploratory experiences that connect a diverse student body with their learning in dynamic and engaging ways. It is an inspiring place where ideas and possibilities abound. Like any school, there are traditions that form the foundation of our work in the community, and our foundation is strong. This guiding philosophy is supported by a rich array of co-curricular programs.
University Liggett School seeks a full-time, experienced Spanish teacher to begin in September 2024.
Department Philosophy:
The Modern Languages (ML) Department offers a language experience in French, Spanish and Mandarin. Students excel in their language(s) of choice and are able to take more than more than one language simultaneously. Students explore culture, ask questions, and develop their communication skills, ultimately becoming proficient at a level appropriate to their grade. Students learn how to collaborate and work independently all while developing proficiency in all areas of language development: speaking, listening, writing and reading. In each language, students can also participate in language clubs and there are school excursions in the Detroit area to visit culturally relevant places.
Essential Duties:
- Teach four or five sections of Spanish primarily in the Upper School
- Create a class environment that is devoted to advancing proficiency in Spanish through thoughtful immersive experiences.
- Possess a wide range of teaching approaches to reach from the most advanced language learners to those with neurodiversity
- Create an equitable and inclusive class environment that promotes integrity, respect, and empathy
- Design writing assignments and activities that stretch student thinking and imagination
- Scaffold assignments effectively and respond thoughtfully and promptly to student writing
- Collaborate with colleagues and engage in department discussions about pedagogy and other concerns
- Participate actively in advancing the Modern and Classical Languages department’s curriculum and The Liggett Approach
- Serve as an Upper School advisor
- Communicate thoughtfully, professionally, and clearly with parents
- Participate actively and positively in the life of the school
Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree or higher in Spanish or Spanish Education or an equivalent field
- Enthusiasm for Upper School students and an understanding of their developmental needs
- A thoughtful and engaging approach to teaching, learning, and assessment
- A growth mindset about teaching practices and an eagerness to work toward professional goals and development
- A keen desire to work in a collaborative, inclusive, and student-centered environment
- Ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds to develop healthy, supportive, and responsive relationships
- Strong writer, reader, and speaker
- Eager willingness to support and to be present in the life of the school
- Facility with technology in the classroom
The mission of University Liggett School is to empower students to develop intellectual curiosity, leadership and confidence to contribute to a complex and changing world. We challenge students to excel and to achieve their highest potential. We create opportunities for discovery and achievement by developing a faculty who foster the strengths of each student through the Liggett Approach. We teach and practice the values of respect and responsibility in an emotionally and physically safe environment.
Contact Person
Qualified candidates should send the following to Shernaz Minwalla, Head of Upper School, at sminwalla@uls.org:
- A letter of interest
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Responses to the following prompts with a video, writing, or an artifact:
- Describe a recent professional development experience you participated in and its impact upon your practice.
- What is the most significant pedagogical shift you have made in your practice from the beginning of your career to today?
- What role does assessment play in your classroom?
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
University Liggett School is committed to a culturally diverse faculty and student body. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by applicable federal or Michigan law. Candidates from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent schools are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
If you are a highly qualified educator looking for substitute teaching work for all grade levels and subject areas, we are looking for you. At University Liggett School students are active participants in their learning experience. Substitute teachers at Liggett thrive in a dynamic, student-centered, collaborative environment.
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree. Submit to a Michigan school employment criminal background and fingerprinting checks as required. Please indicate the grade level and subject areas that you are qualified to teach in your letter of interest.
If you are interested in being added to our substitute teaching roster please email your resume and a letter of interest to Maureen Solak at msolak@uls.org.
Staff positions
The Director of Enrollment Management will support the mission and vision of University Liggett School through positive interaction with students and faculty. Specifically, it is the Director of Enrollment Management’s responsibility to ensure that the school’s mission, vision, and strategic plan are the center of all decisions and actions. The Director of Enrollment Management will support an atmosphere of trust and openness among employees, students, and parents and will support an atmosphere that fosters the intellectual, social, physical, behavioral, and emotional growth of each student.
PROFESSIONAL GROWTH AND INNOVATION
- Annually represent the school at in person conferences for regional and national professional enrollment and marketing associations, sharing with the school community information that can support the community’s growth in accordance with the school’s vision and The Liggett Approach.
- Along with other members of the admission team, participate in webinars and other opportunities for professional development provided by regional and national professional enrollment and marketing associations.
- Create regularly scheduled opportunities for members of the admission team to reflect upon the learning that emerges from in person and online professional development programs, considering ways in which our enrollment efforts can evolve.
ENROLLMENT STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT AND PROCESS MANAGEMENT
- Develop comprehensive enrollment strategies that are grounded in data driven decision making and aligned with the school's mission, values, vision, and goals.
- Conduct data-driven analysis of market trends, the competitive landscape, and student demographics to optimize recruitment efforts.
- Foster relationships with feeder schools, educational consultants, and other key stakeholders to increase visibility and referrals.
- Develop and manage a family ambassador network.
- Create and execute an enrollment and communications plan to attract suitable candidates and enhance the school's online visibility and reputation.
- Lead the Admission team and oversee the entire admission process.
- Oversee the planning and execution of admission events, assessments, and transition activities.
- Ensure an efficient and streamlined experience for prospective students and their families, from lead generation to enrollment and retention.
- Oversee the evaluation of prospective students.
- Manage all re-enrollment processes, including contract review, updates, and preparation, developing and executing strategies to promote retention in collaboration with other administrative offices.
- Manage yield and onboarding of new students and families.
- Manage SEVIS and International Students, visas, etc.
FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIPS/TUITION REVENUE
- Take primary responsibility for managing the school’s financial aid and scholarship budgets, ensuring that expenditures are in line with budgeted expectations developed by the Head of School and Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations.
- Collaborate with the Head of School, Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations, and others identified by the Head of School to determine financial aid and scholarship awards.
- Create projections for financial aid expenditures and net tuition revenue.
- Maintain up to date tuition revenue information.
- Manage the 4A fund for students.
- Manage the financial aid committee.
- Oversee all aspects of the need-based financial aid application process for new and returning students.
- Manage the awarding of scholarships, including Liggett Merit Scholarship and Schaap Scholars.
- Support stewardship initiatives.
COLLABORATION WITH ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS
- Collaborate closely with academic leaders and faculty to understand program offerings, effectively communicate those offerings to prospective students, retain current students, create engaging experiences for prospective students, and identify opportunities to share our stories.
DATA, REPORTING, AND BUDGET MANAGEMENT
- Produce longitudinal reports that inform trustees, administrators, and faculty about admission, enrollment, and retention trends impacting the school’s operations.
- Prepare demographic data for NAIS, Board, and grant proposals.
- Maintain accurate enrollment records.
- Oversee and manage the departmental budgets for admissions and marketing & communications.
- Perform routine cost-benefit analysis to maximize ROI and optimize fund allocation.
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
- Develop and oversee the implementation of marketing, communications, advertising, and public relations plans related to admission.
- Foster a culture that values compelling content, innovation, effective technology use, and exceptional quality.
- Collaborate with various departments to ensure clarity and consistency in all enrollment communications.
- Implement innovative strategies to demonstrate the value of a University Liggett School education.
EXTERNAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANDING
- Maintain a positive brand image for the school, consistently communicating its unique value proposition and offerings.
PRINT AND DIGITAL MARKETING
- Oversee the creation, distribution, and maintenance of all print and electronic material related to enrollment.
- Collaborate with other offices regarding the design and content of the school’s website, ensuring that the website supports the school’s brand standards and articulation of the school’s vision.
- Take primary responsibility for design and content of the school’s social media feeds, ensuring that they support the school’s brand standards and articulation of the school’s vision.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.
- Demonstrates consistently exemplary personal and professional ethics in keeping with ULS’s Community Values.
- Embraces all elements of ULS’s Mission.
- Demonstrates the ability to develop, articulate, and pursue a compelling vision for enrollment and marketing efforts in alignment with the School’s vision.
- Demonstrates strong written and oral communication skills.
- Demonstrates highly effective educational leadership abilities.
- Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrates a commitment to innovation and to collaboration.
- Possesses substantive relevant successful administrative experience.
Screenings – TB assessment Livescan Background Check
Work Environment:
This job operates in a professional school environment.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This is a full-time, twelve-month position. Limited travel and occasional weekend and evening work will be required.
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
Liggett is an equal opportunity employer and educational institution. It is the policy of the school to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, veteran status, military service, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity,
and sexual orientation), genetic information, height, weight, misdemeanor arrest record, marital or familial status or any other status specifically protected by federal or Michigan law.
This policy governs all aspects of employment at Liggett including hiring, assignments, training, promotions, compensation, employee benefits, discipline, discharge, and all other terms and conditions of employment. This policy applies to all conduct on school premises, during school-sponsored activities on or off campus, and in connection with all school-related duties or functions. This policy also applies to all conduct and communication by vendors or other third parties while on school premises or in connection with providing services to the school.
Position Title Bus Driver
Department Transportation
Position Classification Part-Time, Non-exempt
Start Date Immediately
University Liggett School, an independent, coeducation school for grades PreK3-12, has a long tradition as an outstanding school, known for providing the kind of innovative and exploratory experiences that connect a diverse student body with their learning in dynamic and engaging ways. It is an inspiring place where ideas and possibilities abound. Like any school, there are traditions that form the foundation of our work in the community, and our foundation is strong. Our charge is to be better than good enough and to understand that risk-taking, innovation, and creativity lie at the center of good teaching and learning for our students and our faculty.
Position Summary
University Liggett School is seeking Bus Drivers to transport students over specified routes to and from school and special events. Route drivers have regular five day per week routes. Event drivers have fluctuating schedules based on scheduled school activities and events and may drive an occasional route.
Essential Responsibilities
- Fully understand how to operate and safely drive a school bus.
- Assist students with getting on and off the bus as needed.
- Ensure the safety and security of all bus passengers and the vehicle.
- Arrive at pick-up and drop-off points in a timely manner.
- Reports all accidents immediately; requesting police or ambulance service as needed.
- Communicate effectively and positively with students, parents, staff, and colleagues.
- Participates in all required training.
- Check weather conditions and road reports before departures.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by the Transportation Supervisor or other appropriate administrator.
Position Requirements
- A valid Michigan Driver’s license with satisfactory driving record.
- Possess a valid Michigan CDL with B, P, S, endorsements and acquire a Michigan Department of Education bus driver card within 90 days of hire.
- Driving experience in transporting passengers.
- Training and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position.
- Must be capable of working independently and possess the ability to understand and follow through on verbal and written instructions.
- Must possess basic first aid and CPR certification or be able to obtain it.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Possess a good knowledge of bus operation and traffic laws.
- Possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to maintain a calm demeanor.
- Alert, focused, and detail oriented.
- A self-starter who works well independently.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, use hands, use foot controls to drive, reach with hands and arms; climb, bend, kneel, and stoop; and talk and hear.
- Must be physically able to perform and demonstrate emergency evacuation procedures.
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs
- Ability to use emergency exits at any location on the bus.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, night/dusk vision, color vision, and peripheral vision.
Work Environment
The job responsibilities are performed on a bus; Occasional exposure to objectionable conditions or variations such as those found in variable weather conditions.
For consideration, interested candidates are asked to submit their letter of interest, resume, and names and contact information for three references to Donna Root at droot@uls.org.
Athletic positions
Contact us
For faculty positions, send a resume, letter of interest, and three recent professional references or for a non-teaching position, please send a resume and letter of interest to:
University Liggett School
1045 Cook Road
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236-2509
Attn: Maureen Solak
msolak@uls.org
Liggett is always seeking out experienced coaches. For athletic positions, send a resume and letter of interest to:
Dr. Leython Williams '03
Assistant Head of School for
Athletics & Ancillary Programs
lwilliams@uls.org
University Liggett School
1045 Cook Road
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236-2509