The Franklin Academy is accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year.
The Franklin Academy is a preschool through 8th grade independent school. We celebrate a love of challenging questions, free expression, and service to others. We limit class size to ten at Preschool, 15 students for grades K-5 and Middle School School core classes may be larger, depending upon subject area. Classes will rarely exceed 18, thus ensuring that our students have more opportunities to ask questions and express themselves. Our school is making a positive impact in Whatcom and Skagit counties. All candidates must actively support the school mission, vision, and core commitments
As our Academy grows, we increasingly seek teachers with:
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- A proven record of high-impact classroom teaching experience;
- References confirming an ability to energize, elevate, and stretch students;
- Awards or other recognition from colleagues and students;
- Experience at regionally or internationally recognized schools;
- Professional leadership abilities and experience;
- Experience recruiting and evaluating other great teachers;
- A global perspective, and ideally international work experience;
- An outstanding academic record, with an advanced degree, strongly preferred.
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If you love helping students push their boundaries — and want to help us build a school that attracts leading teachers — then we invite you to contact us. Franklin Academy is an independent and open community. We warmly welcome applicants of all backgrounds and beliefs.
We are now accepting applications for various school teachers for all levels and disciplines. Ideal applicants will have a college degree, Washington State teaching certification, and prior teaching experience. A foundation in curriculum and instruction, effective classroom management skills, and ready rapport with students are highly desired. Candidates are encouraged to navigate the school’s website, for further information regarding the school’s mission and objectives.
Submit cover letter, resume, completed application with (unofficial) transcripts, and two reference letters. Official transcripts are required upon employment. We seek qualified applicants throughout the school year.
Please email your application forms to applications@thefranklin.academy
Current Employment openings
Preschool Teacher
Our preschool program focuses on building foundational skills through a balance of guided learning, play, and social development in a consistent, supportive classroom setting.
We are currently hiring a Preschool Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year.
Who We Are
Franklin is a close-knit, mission-driven school community. Our preschool classrooms are designed to provide:
- A structured and predictable environment for young learners
- Small class sizes that allow for individual attention
- A focus on social-emotional development and early academic readiness
- Clear communication and partnership with families
We believe early childhood education sets the tone for a student’s entire academic experience, and we take that responsibility seriously.
What Makes Franklin Different
- Nonprofit, private school with a student-centered model
- Small class sizes that allow teachers to truly know each child
- Structured daily routines and clear expectations
- Supportive leadership and team collaboration
- Defined curriculum and learning framework, reducing planning burden
- A calm, consistent environment for both students and staff
- A sustainable pace that supports work-life balance
This is a setting for educators who want to do meaningful work in a well-run classroom.
The Role
As a Preschool Teacher, you will:
- Lead a structured, engaging classroom environment for young learners
- Support early academic, social, and emotional development
- Implement curriculum and classroom routines aligned with school expectations
- Observe and assess student development
- Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress
- Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment
- Collaborate with staff to support consistency across the program
What We’re Looking For
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or closely related field
- Experience in a structured preschool or early learning environment
- Ability to meet Washington State DCYF licensing requirements
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Strong classroom management and organizational skills
- Ability to create a calm, structured, and engaging environment
Compensation
Preschool teachers are compensated based on years of relevant experience and full-time equivalency.
- Salary range: Approximately $35,700 – $45,900
- Placement is based on verified preschool experience
This structure provides consistency and clear growth over time.
Who Thrives Here
This role is a strong fit for educators who:
- Enjoy working with young children in a structured setting
- Value consistency, routine, and clear expectations
- Want to build strong relationships with students and families
- Prefer a collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Are looking for meaningful work with a sustainable workload
Schedule
- Full-time, salaried position
- School-day schedule aligned with program needs
Join Us
If you are looking for a preschool environment that is structured, supportive, and focused on meaningful early childhood development, we encourage you to apply.
Pay: $35,700.00 – $57,221.64 per year
Work Location: In person
K-8 Teacher
Who We Are
Franklin is a close-knit, mission-driven school community built on:
- Strong academic expectations
- A STEM-forward approach to learning
- Small class sizes that allow for individualized instruction
- A structured, consistent classroom environment
- Direct and respectful communication with families
We believe students succeed when teachers have both the structure and the support to do their work well.
What Makes Franklin Different
- Nonprofit, private, mission-driven model focused on students
- STEM-focused learning environment that builds critical thinking skills
- Small class sizes, allowing for meaningful connection and individualized support
- Established curriculum and clear expectations, reducing unnecessary workload
- Opportunity to directly impact and shape student growth
- Supportive, involved leadership
- Professional autonomy within a structured framework
- A sustainable pace that supports work-life balance
The Role
As a K–8 Teacher, you will:
- Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate instruction
- Integrate STEM concepts and critical thinking into daily learning
- Create a structured, positive classroom environment
- Assess student progress and provide clear, consistent feedback
- Differentiate instruction to meet a range of learning needs
- Collaborate with colleagues and contribute to the school community
- Maintain professional communication with families and administration
What We’re Looking For
- Washington State teaching certification
- Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field
- Experience teaching at the elementary or middle school level
- Strong classroom management and communication skills
- A student-centered, practical approach to teaching
- Interest in or experience with STEM education
Compensation
We offer a transparent salary schedule based on education and years of experience.
- Starting salary: $52,022 (BA, 0 years experience)
- Range: Approximately $52,022 – $83,900 depending on experience and advanced education
- Placement is based on verified teaching experience and accredited educational credits
This structure provides consistency and clear growth over time.
Who Thrives Here
This role is a strong fit for educators who:
- Want to have a visible, meaningful impact on students
- Value small class sizes and relationship-based teaching
- Appreciate structure and clear expectations
- Are adaptable, collaborative, and solutions-focused
- Take ownership of their classroom and outcomes
- Are looking for a role that supports both professional impact and personal sustainability
Schedule
- Full-time, salaried position
- Typical hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Includes conferences, school events, and team collaboration
Join Us
If you are looking for a school where you can focus on teaching, build meaningful relationships, and be part of a mission-driven team with a sustainable workload, we encourage you to apply.
Pay: $52,022.00 – $83,900.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Part Time After School Coach (2026–2027 School Year)
The Role
We are looking for reliable, positive, and engaging people to coach and support our after-school programs.
You do not need to be a seasoned coach. If you enjoy working with kids, can lead a group, and show up consistently, we can teach the rest.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading or supporting after-school sports and clubs
- Keeping students engaged, active, and on track
- Teaching basic skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship
- Making sure students are safe and supervised at all times
- Helping set up and clean up each day
- Communicating with staff when needed
Programs You May Support
Depending on your interests and availability, you may work in programs like:
- Cross Country
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Track & Field
- Run Club
- Chess Club
- Robotics
- Math Club
Schedule
- Typically 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
- Monday through Friday, depending on the program (Most programs are 2-3 days a week)
- Some roles are a few days per week, others are more consistent
What We’re Looking For
- Someone who enjoys working with kids and can lead a group
- Reliable and shows up when scheduled
- Comfortable in an active, sometimes fast-paced environment
- Clear communicator and team player
- CPR/First Aid certified, or willing to get certified
- Able to pass a background check and fingerprinting
Bonus If You Have
- Experience coaching or working with youth
- Background in education, kinesiology, psychology, or recreation
- Interest in building experience in a school setting
Why This Is a Good Fit
This role is a great way to:
- Gain experience working with students
- Build coaching or leadership skills
- Get your foot in the door in a school environment
Pay: $20.00 – $38.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Substitute Teacher Preschool thru 8th Grade
If you’re someone who can walk into a classroom, keep things steady, and create a sense of calm and structure, this role matters more than you might expect.
At The Franklin Academy, our work goes beyond filling in for the day. Substitute Teachers play a key role in maintaining consistency for students and supporting the flow of the school when teachers are out.
About The Franklin Academy
Our mission is to provide an education that integrates STEM, academic rigor, and leadership while developing character grounded in timeless values.
We believe in:
- Caring for ourselves, others, and our community
- Engaging fully in meaningful work and relationships
- Creating with curiosity and purpose
- Reflecting to grow with intention
We are a nonprofit school with a strong sense of purpose and a community-oriented environment. While our foundation includes faith-based values, we are open and welcoming to individuals of all backgrounds.
What You’ll Do
You will step into an established classroom and maintain a structured, respectful, and consistent learning environment for the day.
This includes:
- Following lesson plans and classroom routines
- Supporting student behavior in a calm and consistent manner
- Answering questions and helping students stay on track
- Supervising students during transitions, lunch, and recess
- Communicating clearly with staff and leaving notes for the classroom teacher
This role is not about creating new curriculum. It is about consistency, presence, and follow-through.
Position Summary
Substitute Teachers help ensure that the school day runs smoothly in the absence of a classroom teacher.
This role requires someone who can step into an active environment, maintain expectations, and support both students and staff without disruption. Your presence helps create stability for students and allows the rest of the school to continue operating effectively.
Why This Role Works
- Flexible scheduling
- Small class sizes
- Lesson plans are provided
- Supportive and collaborative team
- Opportunity to build experience in a school environment
Substituting can also be a pathway to future full-time opportunities within the school.
Who We’re Looking For
Someone who:
- Is dependable and shows up as expected
- Can maintain structure and expectations in a classroom
- Communicates clearly and calmly
- Is steady, patient, and able to manage a group of students
- Can follow direction while using good judgment when needed
You do not need to know everything. You do need to be someone students and staff can rely on for the day.
Qualifications
- Experience working with children preferred
- College degree preferred; teaching degree strongly valued
- Washington State teaching certification is a plus
- WWU Education majors in their senior year are encouraged to apply
Details
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Schedule: On-call, as needed
Work Location: In person
Benefits: This is an on-call, part-time role and is not eligible for benefits.
Sound Interesting?
If you enjoy working with students and value teamwork, we encourage you to apply.
Submit a cover letter, resume, completed application with (unofficial) transcripts, and two reference letters. Official transcripts are required upon employment. We seek qualified applicants throughout the school year.
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- Please briefly describe your experience working with children or in a classroom setting, including the age groups and your role.
Work Location: In person
Forms
Please send your completed forms by email to applications@thefranklin.academy, or you may mail it to The Franklin Academy, 1509 E. Victor Street, Bellingham, WA 98225.
Application form for teachers: TEACHER APPLICATION FORM
Application form for staff position: STAFF APPLICATION FORM
