Teacher, PSR

Job Summary

The PSR (Parish School of Religion) Teacher is responsible for providing faith formation and religious education to children and youth in accordance with the teachings, traditions, and values of the Catholic Church. The PSR Teacher prepares and delivers age-appropriate lessons, encourages students to develop their Catholic faith, and creates a safe, respectful, and welcoming learning environment. The teacher works collaboratively with parish staff, parents, volunteers, and other catechists to support the spiritual and religious development of students.

Job Responsibilities

• Religious Education: Teach age-appropriate Catholic religious education lessons using the curriculum and materials provided by the parish.

• Lesson Planning: Prepare engaging lessons, activities, discussions, prayers, and learning experiences that support students' understanding and practice of the Catholic faith.

• Faith Formation: Help students develop a deeper understanding of Scripture, Catholic teachings, sacraments, prayer, worship, and Christian living.

• Classroom Management: Maintain a safe, respectful, welcoming, and positive classroom environment. Establish and reinforce appropriate classroom expectations and behaviors.

• Student Engagement: Encourage active participation in lessons, discussions, prayer, service activities, and other faith formation experiences.

• Student Support: Provide guidance, encouragement, and appropriate support to students as they grow in their faith and understanding of Catholic teachings.

• Sacramental Preparation: Support students in preparing for the Sacraments as assigned, including helping them understand the significance of the sacraments and their role in the life of the Church.

• Communication: Communicate professionally and respectfully with students, parents or guardians, parish staff, clergy, and other catechists regarding student participation and classroom needs.

• Student Safety: Follow all parish and diocesan policies regarding child protection, supervision, safety, emergencies, and appropriate interactions with minors.

• Attendance and Records: Maintain accurate attendance records and complete any required documentation or reports in accordance with parish procedures.

• Team Collaboration: Participate in catechist meetings, training, parish programs, and other activities that support the PSR program and parish mission.

• Professional and Faith Development: Participate in required catechist formation, training, and professional development opportunities.

• Other Duties: Perform other related duties as assigned by the Pastor, Director of Religious Education, PSR Coordinator, or designated parish supervisor.

Job Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or coursework in religious education, theology, education, or a related field preferred.

• Experience: Previous teaching, catechetical, youth ministry, classroom, or volunteer experience preferred but not required.

• Faith: Practicing Catholic who demonstrates a commitment to the teachings, traditions, and mission of the Catholic Church.

• Skills:

  1. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  2. Ability to teach and engage children or youth in an age-appropriate manner.
  3. Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
  4. Patience, flexibility, and a positive approach to working with students.
  5. Ability to create a welcoming and respectful learning environment.
  6. Ability to work collaboratively with parish staff, parents, volunteers, and other catechists.
  7. Commitment to maintaining appropriate boundaries and student confidentiality.

• Background and Training: Must successfully complete required parish and diocesan background screening, child-safety training, and any other requirements for working with minors.

• Schedule: Ability to attend scheduled PSR classes, meetings, training sessions, and other required parish activities.