Duties
Cahokia High School is seeking a dedicated Agriculture (Horticulture) CTE Teacher to instruct students in grades 9–12. This position is responsible for developing and delivering a comprehensive Horticulture Program that aligns with the AFNR Three-Circle Model and meets the Agricultural Education Incentive Funding Grant guidelines and quality indicators.
Key responsibilities include establishing a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) program, serving as an FFA Advisor, and teaching the following courses (subject to scheduling and student enrollment) to meet ISBE College and Career Pathway Endorsement requirements
- Introduction to Agricultural Industry I & II
- Basic Agricultural Science and Agribusiness (dual-credit)
- Horticultural Production and Management (dual-credit)
This position involves teaching two dual-credit college-level courses for 11th and 12th-grade students and includes up to 400 extended hours annually for FFA and SAE duties, supported through the Three Circle Grant Program.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Design, plan, and deliver CTE curriculum aligned with Perkins V and ISBE College and Career Pathway Endorsement (CCPE) requirements, including dual-credit courses
- Teach academic, employability, and technical skills required for industry credentials, certifications, dual-credit coursework, and workforce readiness
- Serve as FFA Advisor for the school’s chapter and coordinate SAE programs for all participating students
- Plan, prepare, and lead students in FFA Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs)
- Accurately document SAE activities and student participation using the AET Experience platform
- Facilitate hands-on and experiential learning opportunities in the classroom, greenhouse, garden, and lab
- Modify instruction and materials to meet diverse student needs and career goals
- Coordinate field trips, industry guest speakers, and work-based learning experiences
- Maintain program quality through regular evaluations and participation in biannual CTE Advisory Board meetings
- Participate in ongoing professional development and departmental meetings
- Develop and manage program budgets and maintain inventory of equipment and supplies
- Enforce all safety standards and ensure compliance with federal, state, and district policies
- Perform other duties as assigned
Physical Demands:
The role requires regular standing, walking, speaking, hearing, and using hands for instructional and greenhouse tasks. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. Some work may involve kneeling or crouching and exposure to higher temperatures, particularly in the greenhouse or garden.
Work Environment:
- Instructional settings include classrooms, labs, greenhouses, and outdoor gardens
- Involves use of various materials and chemicals (e.g., fertilizers, shears) under supervised safety protocols
Must be able to work in varied weather conditions and handle physically demanding tasks like lifting soil bags or moving greenhouse equipment
Qualifications
Qualifications:
- Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a CTE Agriculture endorsement
OR
- CTE Educator License with Stipulations (ELS-CTE) endorsed for Agricultural Education
Alternative Pathway for Industry Professionals:
Applicants with agriculture industry experience may qualify for the ELS-CTE by either:
- Earning 60+ semester hours from a regionally accredited institution and documenting 2,000+ hours of relevant work experience, or
Documenting a minimum of 8,000 hours of work experience in the horticulture and agribusiness field
How to Apply
To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a tailored resume, cover letter and any relevant college transcripts to:
Tiffany Pearce
Chief Business Officer / Recruitment
pearcety@cusd187.org
Applications may also be submitted through the Cahokia Unit School District #187 Job Application Site:https://sky.cusd187.org/scripts/wsisa.dll/WService=wsFin/rapplmnu03.w
Open until filled.