Why Ideal?

Friendship Ideal’s early learning approach for students in grades pre-K3 to kindergarten is guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy that our children are extraordinarily capable and the world is their classroom. Through art, nature, literature, dramatic play, language, writing and music, our Reggio-inspired program nurtures students’ innate curiosity, intellect, creativity and self-confidence. Filled with joyous exploration and guided by personalized pathways, students make discoveries, learn to solve problems and collaborate, while developing the building blocks that lead to lifelong learning. Named after the area in Italy where the concept was developed, Reggio Emilia is a highly- acclaimed early-learning model where children are encouraged to explore our ever-changing world.

Led by a community of seasoned and supportive teachers, Ideal builds on its early learning program in the elementary (1-4) and middle grades (5-8) to develop knowledgeable, caring, resilient and ethical young scholars. Our rigorous academic curriculum builds strong foundations in mathematics, science, social studies, English and language arts along with exposure to foreign language study. Project-based learning that takes students out of the classroom to investigate real-world problems is a critical component of the academic day.

One of our newest elementary and middle school campuses, Friendship Ideal’s early learning classrooms are colored by all forms of patterns and expression that spark creativity and foster student inquiry. A big picture window leads our littlest learners to their outdoor classroom and garden, where they plant and play as they investigate and learn. In 2021, the Ideal campus expansion will include new classrooms, a performing arts theater, gymnasium, innovation lab and digital library.

By completing an application, you have applied to be considered for anticipated vacancies in the 2024-2025 school year. Please note that our formal interview process will begin January 2024 contingent on our confirmed vacancies. 

Friendship Public Charter School operates a thriving network of college preparatory public charter schools. Headquartered in Washington, DC., Friendship serves over 4,800 students in preschool to grade 12 and guides a growing network of alumni to college completion annually.  Our mission is to prepare students to become ethical, literate, well-rounded, and self-sufficient citizens by providing a world-class education that motivates students to reach high academic standards, to enjoy learning, to achieve success, and to contribute actively to their communities. For 25 years, with the support and guidance of our exceptional faculty, our students have risen to the challenge with high graduation rates, college acceptances, and unparalleled success academically and socially.

Friendship is looking for responsible, confident, respectful, caring, committed, persistent, and patient professionals to join our family for the 2024-2025 school year starting in August 2024. Friendship Public Charter Schools is committed to the idea that each and every child can make it to and through college. If you share that belief, please apply. 

For more information about our schools please visit the following Social Media pages: YouTube, Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!

Please see the available salary scales: FPCS Compensation

• Create a classroom culture of high achievement and student ownership of their learning that helps foster students’ intellectual, social and emotional development.
• Provide daily instruction, including clear learning outcomes, well-designed lessons and high-quality assessments that align to Friendship’s curriculum and standards.
• Incorporate into lessons creative, hands-on learning experiences that broaden students’ exposure and interests, help foster student ingenuity and require application of knowledge and skills acquired through daily instruction.
• Provide a classroom environment that is visually appealing, rich with resources aligned to curriculum and standards and honors student’s achievement with current and accurate displays of exemplary student work.
• Communicate to students to understand their talents, interests and needs and to convey learning expectations and their progress toward meeting those expectations.
• Communicate regularly with families to identify students’ talents, interests and needs and update parents regarding students’ achievements and progress.
• Collaborate with school-based staff and throughout the Friendship network in staff meetings, regular analysis sessions and professional learning designed to enhance students’ learning experience and increase student achievement.
• Professional background in one or more of the following types of Art
  • Instrumental Music
  • Photography
  • Graphics Arts
  • Technical Design
  • Theatre Production

FPCS’s policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, status as a special disabled veteran, or any other protected criteria as established by federal, state, or local laws.  This policy applies to recruitment and hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfer, layoff, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment.  Employment decisions at FPCS are based solely upon relevant criteria, including an individual’s capabilities, qualifications, training, experience and suitability.