Our Mission:  Knoxville Leadership Foundation (KLF) serves the Knoxville area by connecting communities of resource with communities of need, while reconciling people to Jesus Christ and to each other.

Purpose of Position:  This full-time position prepares justice-involved adults and high school dropouts for High School Equivalency (HiSET) certification. The Teacher creates an engaging, trauma-informed learning environment that helps participants overcome past educational barriers and achieve measurable academic and personal success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Deliver consistent, high-quality HiSET instruction in small classes of 8–16 participants, using varied teaching methods, technology, and real-world applications.
• Utilize curriculum that integrates HiSET test preparation with workplace skills (critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork), leadership development, and life skills and working with supervisor to make adaptations as necessary.
• Establish and maintain a structured, respectful classroom culture; set clear behavioral expectations and respond effectively to behavioral issues using trauma-informed practices.
• Regularly assess participant progress, track skill development, and maintain accurate documentation of attendance, performance, and growth.
• Actively collaborate with KLF case managers by sharing timely insights on student strengths, challenges, and needs, and participate in disciplinary, de-escalation, and re-engagement meetings.
• Sustain productive relationships with key educational partners to support participant success.
• Attend all staff meetings, retreats, and professional development activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Key Performance Expectations:

• Participants show measurable progress toward HiSET readiness (pre/post assessments, practice test scores).
• Maintain high participant engagement and retention in classes.
• Demonstrate effective classroom management with minimal disruptions.
• Utilize curriculum and ensure implementation of effective teaching strategies. 
• Collaborate with teammates and key partners.
• Provide timely and accurate documentation and communication with the team.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s preferred) in Education, Adult Education, Special Education, or a related field.
• 2+ years of teaching experience, preferably with adults, at-risk youth, justice-involved individuals, or in HiSET/GED programs. HiSET/GED test preparation experience or certification strongly preferred.

Competencies Required:

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies to perform the essential functions of this position:

• Trauma-Informed Teaching: Understands how trauma affects learning and adapts instruction and support accordingly.
• Instructional Effectiveness: Uses diverse strategies to meet varied learning needs and styles.
• Classroom Management: Maintains a safe, focused, and productive learning environment.
• Collaboration & Communication: Works effectively with case managers and partners; provides clear, timely feedback.
• Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Thrives in a dynamic setting and addresses challenges proactively.
• Organization: Manages time well, prioritizes tasks, and maintains accurate records.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged standing and teaching in classroom or experiential learning settings.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

*This position transports program participants. A driving record will be reviewed by our insurance company. Any violations need to be discussed during the initial phone screen.

*As part of our hiring process, we conduct federal background checks.  Any prior charges need to be discussed during the initial phone screening 

For more information about our organization, please visit https://klf.org/