Physical Education Teacher (Secondary) - Okemos High School
Okemos Public Schools | Okemos, Michigan

Position Status: Full Time
Start Date: 2026-2027 School Year
Salary/Benefits: Per OEA Master Agreement

Summary

Okemos Public Schools is seeking a passionate, student-centered educator to serve as a Physical Education Teacher at Okemos High School. This position provides the opportunity to engage high school students in meaningful physical education experiences that promote lifelong wellness, physical fitness, teamwork, personal responsibility, and healthy decision-making within a supportive and academically rigorous school environment.

The ideal candidate will foster an engaging and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to develop physical literacy, confidence, collaboration skills, and an appreciation for lifelong health and wellness. This educator will design meaningful learning experiences aligned with Michigan Academic Standards while supporting the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of students.

This role is ideal for an educator who values relationship-centered practices, authentic student engagement, collaboration, and innovative instructional approaches. Successful candidates will contribute positively to a strong team culture and demonstrate a commitment to equitable outcomes for all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.

Instruction & Student Learning

Plan and deliver engaging physical education instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards.
Foster a positive and student-centered learning environment emphasizing wellness, fitness, teamwork, personal responsibility, and healthy lifestyles.
Design meaningful learning experiences that promote physical literacy, movement skills, goal-setting, collaboration, and lifelong wellness habits.
Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, developmental, and physical needs of students.
Utilize formative and summative assessment data to monitor student progress and guide instructional decision-making.
Support students in developing leadership skills, self-confidence, resilience, and positive peer relationships.
Create opportunities for student voice, participation, and meaningful engagement in physical activity and wellness education.
Facilitate Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) within the learning environment.

Culture, Climate & Student Support

Build positive, respectful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
Establish and maintain a safe, inclusive, equitable, and supportive learning environment.
Promote positive student behavior through restorative and relationship-centered practices.
Support students’ social-emotional growth, well-being, and healthy decision-making.
Encourage student participation, teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth.

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

Collaborate regularly with colleagues, counselors, support staff, and administrators to enhance student learning and well-being.
Participate actively in professional learning communities, staff meetings, district initiatives, and ongoing professional development.
Communicate effectively and consistently with families regarding student progress and classroom experiences.
Maintain accurate student records, assessment data, and instructional documentation.
Demonstrate continuous professional growth and reflective instructional practice.
Engage positively with parents, families, and community members.
Support school and district initiatives aligned with the Strategic Plan and Equity Plan.

Qualifications

Education, Certification & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Health Education, or related field required.
Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate required.
Michigan certification endorsement required: Physical Education (MX or MC).
Must meet Highly Qualified requirements.
Successful secondary teaching experience preferred.
Experience teaching physical education at the middle school and/or high school level preferred.
Experience with student-centered instructional practices preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of effective physical education instructional practices, physical fitness concepts, and adolescent development.
Ability to create engaging, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environments.
Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
Ability to foster teamwork, leadership, wellness, and positive student engagement.
Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, families, and community members.
Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to integrate technology effectively to support teaching and learning.
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices.

Why Okemos High School?

Okemos High School provides a dynamic and academically rigorous environment where students are encouraged to pursue excellence, innovation, leadership, and meaningful learning opportunities. Staff work collaboratively to support student achievement while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and college and career readiness.

Educators at Okemos High School benefit from:

Highly engaged and motivated students
Strong instructional leadership and collaborative teams
Supportive families and community partnerships
Opportunities for innovation and professional growth
A district-wide commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement

This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly respected high school community committed to preparing students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

About Okemos Public Schools

Located in the greater Lansing area and neighboring Michigan State University, Okemos Public Schools is one of Michigan’s premier school districts. Serving over 4,500 students, the district is consistently recognized for academic excellence, innovative programming, and a strong commitment to student success.

Okemos is known for its highly qualified staff, engaged families, and diverse, globally minded community. The district’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement creates an exceptional environment for both students and educators.

The surrounding community offers access to a vibrant college-town atmosphere, cultural opportunities, outdoor recreation, and an outstanding quality of life.

Pursuant to Public Act 68 of 1993 and Public Act 83 of 1995, selected new employees shall submit to fingerprints and a criminal background check at the employee’s expense.

It is the policy of the Board of Education that the District will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis. The District shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination.

Traditionally marginalized candidates are encouraged to apply.

Inquiries or complaints by applicants or employees related to discrimination should be directed to:

Director of Human Resources
Okemos Public Schools
4406 N Okemos Rd
Okemos, MI 48864
Phone: 517-706-5006