Teaching at Trace

While many of our teachers hold degrees in education, some come from a variety of other professional backgrounds. However, all of our teachers possess invaluable knowledge or expertise that qualifies them for the classroom. Before inviting a parent to teach, we ensure their skill set and interests align with our standards. Once selected, they are provided with a professionally developed curriculum and receive specific training from the Head of School on classroom management and implementation.

Our staff maintains the same professional standards as traditional teaching programs, including lesson planning, grade reporting, and conducting parent-teacher conferences. We value this parent-led model because it allows families who share our core values to be directly involved in their children's education.

In my own personal experience, I have found teaching at Trace to be a dream come true. As a child, I always wanted to be a teacher, but through various twists and turns in life, I felt I had to lay that dream down. When we enrolled our oldest child at Trace, I was elated at the idea of finally stepping into the classroom. It felt as though I was being allowed to become the teacher I had dreamed of being as a child, right at my son's school.

However, despite having a degree in Child and Family Development and many educational credits, I had not been in a formal classroom setting since college. Because that was "many moons ago," I felt quite nervous. I found myself wondering how I would execute a lesson plan or manage a classroom—details that were long in my educational rearview mirror. I truly questioned if I would have what it takes to succeed.

However, my doubts were soon quieted as I saw that not only would I receive excellent training to assure confidence in a classroom setting, but I wouldn't be doing it alone. At Trace, we work in teaching teams designed to give both teachers space during the week, as well as the ability to lean on each other in an effort to educate and shepherd our students' minds and hearts.

We have regularly scheduled teacher trainings providing classroom management strategies, tips in lesson planning, and time to bounce ideas off of other teachers in the community. I have found that not only is the training excellent, but the community is unmatched as we all band together to teach each other’s children. It is a special honor that I will never take for granted.

I am currently in my 13th year at Trace Academy and my 10th year of teaching. Not only have I been equipped for the journey by the training given to me, but I have also been equipped in my journey of faith, marriage, motherhood, and friendship. Teaching at Trace Academy has transformed my heart and life in ways that I am forever grateful for.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are Trace teachers qualified?
Yes. Every teacher is intentionally selected, trained, and supported to ensure your child receives a high-quality, engaging education in every classroom.

Are Trace teachers certified?
Some teachers hold education degrees, while others bring valuable real-world expertise. Every teacher is chosen for their ability to teach well, connect with students, and uphold our academic and character standards.

How does the parent-teacher model benefit my child?
Your child is surrounded by invested, like-minded adults who care deeply about their growth. This creates a safe, relational environment where students are known, encouraged, and challenged.

How are teachers prepared to teach?
Teachers are equipped with a professionally developed curriculum and receive hands-on training from the Head of School, ensuring consistency, structure, and confidence in the classroom.

Will my child still receive a structured, rigorous education?
Absolutely. Students experience clear expectations, strong academics, and consistent progress tracking—comparable to top private school standards.

Why do families choose Trace?
Families choose Trace because it offers something rare: strong academics, meaningful relationships, and a school community built around shared values—where parents aren’t on the sidelines, but part of what makes the school exceptional.