Join Our Team at Royal Palm Academy: Come See Where Teachers Thrive!
Embark on a rewarding journey with Royal Palm Academy, an independent Catholic school in the beautiful setting of Naples, Florida. We seek exceptional educators and staff eager to make a lasting impact on our students' lives. If you're passionate about shaping future leaders and fostering a vibrant learning environment, explore a career with us.
At Royal Palm Academy, you'll join a community dedicated to providing top-quality education paired with strong character formation. We value extraordinary educators and offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits to support your growth and success.
Ready to make a difference? Explore opportunities to join our exceptional team and contribute to our mission to educate minds, inspire hearts, and form character. Come See Where Teachers Thrive!
Open Positions (Come See Where Teachers Thrive!)
- Technology Teacher and STEM Coach (2025-2026)
- Music Teacher (2025-2026)
- 4th Grade Teacher (2025-2026)
- 5th Grade Teacher (2025-2026)
- Substitute Teachers (Ongoing)
- Interested in a career at RPA? Send your resume!
Technology Teacher and STEM Coach (2025-2026)
Job Posting: Technology Teacher and STEM Coach
Start Date: August 2025
School Year: 2025–2026
Hiring Range: $50,000 to $60,000 annually
Additional Stipend: Available for after-school STEM clubs and potential summer programming
About Us:
Royal Palm Academy is a joyful, vibrant, independent, and family-oriented Catholic PK-8 school located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we partner with families to provide a rich educational experience grounded in Catholic values.
The Opportunity:
Royal Palm Academy is seeking a full-time Technology Teacher and STEM Coach for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a permanent, salaried position offering competitive compensation and the chance to help build a world-class technology and STEM program from the ground up.
This is a unique opportunity for a visionary educator to shape the future of our enrichment program and lead the development of a cutting-edge STEM curriculum, lab, and after-school experience. The right candidate will bring energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive to build an inspiring program that blends technology, engineering, robotics, coding, 3D printing, virtual reality, and more—tailored to your own strengths and passions.
Position Overview:
The Technology Teacher and STEM Coach will provide weekly enrichment classes to students in grades K-8 and play a leading role in designing and expanding our Innovation Lab and STEM offerings. The role includes collaboration with school leadership to develop long-term goals for a robust, cross-curricular STEM program and potential summer learning opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Embrace and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of Royal Palm Academy
-
Teach dynamic, age-appropriate technology and STEM classes to students in grades K-8
-
Develop and implement a modern, hands-on STEM curriculum focused on innovation, engineering, coding, design, and problem-solving
-
Lead and grow an after-school STEM program (robotics, coding, maker club, etc.)
-
Partner with faculty to integrate technology and STEM concepts across the academic curriculum
-
Guide the vision for the creation and development of a future Innovation Center / Maker Space / STEM Lab
-
Inspire student creativity and critical thinking through project-based learning and real-world applications
-
Collaborate with school leadership to develop program goals, budgets, equipment needs, and long-term growth strategies
-
Serve as a resource and mentor to fellow teachers in the integration of instructional technology
-
Stay current with emerging technology trends and best practices in K-8 STEM education
-
Communicate clearly and regularly with parents, colleagues, and administrators
Qualifications:
-
Bachelor’s degree in Technology, Engineering, Education, or a related STEM field
-
Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience, preferably in a K-8 school setting
-
Proven experience developing or leading STEM or technology-focused programs
-
Strong classroom management skills and ability to engage and inspire young learners
-
Passion for innovation, hands-on learning, and building something extraordinary from the ground up
-
Proficiency with educational technology, programming tools, maker technologies, and digital platforms
-
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; highly collaborative and team-oriented
-
Enthusiasm for Catholic education and formation of the whole child
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Experience in Catholic or independent schools
-
Experience with robotics, 3D printing, coding languages, VR tools, or design software
-
Leadership experience in launching new programs or labs a plus
Physical and Other Demands:
-
Ability to actively lead lessons, projects, and activities in classroom and lab environments
-
Capable of lifting up to 25 pounds and managing equipment, tools, and student projects
-
Comfortable supervising and engaging students in both structured and open-ended learning spaces
-
Ability to maintain a positive, professional demeanor in a busy and dynamic school setting
To Apply:
Please submit a Resume/CV and Cover Letter (in Adobe PDF format) to Michael Bussman, Head of School, at mbussman@royalpalmacademy.org. Your cover letter should include a statement of your teaching philosophy and how your background aligns with the mission and vision of Royal Palm Academy’s emerging STEM program
Music Teacher (2025-2026)
Start Date: August 2025 | School Year: 2025–2026
About Us:
Royal Palm Academy is a joyful, vibrant, independent, and family-oriented Catholic PK-8 school located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we partner with families to provide a rich educational experience grounded in Catholic values.
The Opportunity:
We are excited to announce an opening for a full-time Music Teacher for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a permanent, salaried position with competitive compensation and benefits. Following a brief gap in the 2024–2025 school year, we are seeking an experienced and visionary music educator who is ready to re-establish and grow a world-class music program at Royal Palm Academy.
Position Overview:
The Music Teacher will lead weekly music enrichment classes for all students from Pre-K3 through 8th Grade. The ideal candidate will bring passion, creativity, and a strong foundation in music education to help design and implement an outstanding, school-wide music curriculum. In partnership with the Director of Music at Saint John the Evangelist Parish, this teacher will also help coordinate student music for school Masses and collaborate to launch and develop a vibrant student choir.
This role is ideal for a music educator who thrives in a joyful Catholic school community and is excited to build a lasting legacy of musical excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Embrace and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of Royal Palm Academy.
-
Teach engaging, developmentally appropriate music classes once per week to each grade level from age 3 through 8th grade.
-
Rebuild and develop a robust music curriculum that introduces music theory, vocal technique, and instrumental exploration.
-
Inspire a love of music through hands-on learning, movement, listening, singing, and creativity.
-
Collaborate with the parish Director of Music and school leadership to coordinate student participation in weekly Mass and religious celebrations.
-
Help create and grow a student choir program, including preparation for school performances and liturgical music.
-
Prepare students for musical presentations and school-wide events that highlight artistic achievement and joyful expression.
-
Use a variety of teaching strategies and tools, including age-appropriate music technology and instruments.
-
Foster a supportive classroom environment that encourages participation and builds confidence in musical expression.
-
Communicate regularly with parents and school staff regarding student progress and program highlights.
Qualifications:
-
Bachelor’s degree in Music, Music Education, or a related field.
-
Minimum of 2 years of direct experience teaching music in a PK-8 school setting.
-
Strong classroom management skills and enthusiasm for working with a wide age range of students (ages 3–14).
-
Experience developing music curriculum and leading school-wide performances or liturgical music events.
-
Knowledge of music theory, vocal instruction, and instrumental teaching strategies.
-
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; collaborative and team-oriented.
-
Passion for Catholic education and a commitment to the moral and spiritual development of students.
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Experience in Catholic or independent schools.
-
Proficiency in piano.
-
Familiarity with liturgical music and Catholic Mass structure.
-
Experience directing choirs or student musical productions.
Physical and Other Demands:
-
Ability to actively lead classes and rehearsals across various grade levels.
-
Capable of lifting and moving musical equipment (up to 20 pounds).
-
Able to supervise and engage students in a variety of settings including classrooms, performance areas, and Mass.
-
Strong organizational and time management skills.
To Apply:
Please submit a Resume/CV and a Cover Letter (in PDF format) to Michael Bussman, Head of School, at mbussman@royalpalmacademy.org. Your cover letter should include a statement on your teaching philosophy and how your background aligns with the mission of Royal Palm Academy and the vision for our music program.
4th Grade Teacher (2025-2026)
Job Posting: 4th Grade Teacher
Start Date: August 2025
School Year: 2025–2026
Hiring Range: $50,000 to $60,000 annually
About Us:
Royal Palm Academy is a joyful, vibrant, independent, and family-oriented Catholic PK-8 school located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we partner with families to provide a rich educational experience grounded in Catholic values.
The Opportunity:
Join our esteemed faculty as a full-time 4th Grade Teacher for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a permanent, salaried position with competitive compensation and benefits. We are seeking a passionate and experienced educator who is dedicated to fostering academic achievement, character development, and spiritual growth in our students.
Position Overview:
As a 4th Grade Teacher at Royal Palm Academy, you will play a vital role in creating a nurturing and engaging classroom environment where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. You will guide students in academic and moral development, integrating Catholic values throughout your instruction.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Embrace and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of Royal Palm Academy
-
Cultivate a positive and inclusive classroom culture where students feel valued and motivated to learn
-
Plan and deliver dynamic, standards-aligned lessons that promote critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration
-
Integrate Catholic teachings and values into daily instruction and classroom activities
-
Establish clear expectations for behavior and implement effective classroom management strategies
-
Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs and abilities of students
-
Utilize technology to enhance teaching and maintain accurate records of student progress
-
Communicate regularly with parents, colleagues, and administration to support student success
-
Participate in school events and professional development opportunities
Qualifications:
-
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent certification in Elementary Education or a related field
-
Minimum of 2 years of lead teacher experience at the K–5 level, or 5+ years in Catholic or independent school settings
-
Passion for teaching elementary-aged students and dedication to the mission of Catholic education
-
Strong classroom management skills and ability to foster a joyful and supportive learning environment
-
Proficiency with educational technology and student information systems
-
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; team-oriented and collaborative
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Practicing Catholic in good standing and able to teach Catholic theology
-
Previous experience teaching in grades K–5 or equivalent student teaching
Physical and Other Demands:
-
Ability to perform tasks such as standing, sitting, and actively monitoring students in various locations
-
Maintain professionalism in a fast-paced and dynamic classroom setting
-
Ability to manage up to 18 students and supervise children outdoors on playgrounds or athletic fields
-
Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds
-
Ability to perform CPR and life-saving measures for adults and children
-
Strong communication skills and presence with students, parents, and colleagues
To Apply:
Please submit a Resume/CV in Adobe PDF format to Michael Bussman, Head of School, at mbussman@royalpalmacademy.org. A cover letter or email expressing your interest in the 4th Grade Teacher position at Royal Palm Academy is optional.
5th Grade Teacher (2025-2026)
Job Posting: 5th Grade Teacher
Start Date: August 2025
School Year: 2025–2026
Hiring Range: $50,000 to $60,000 annually
About Us:
Royal Palm Academy is a joyful, vibrant, independent, and family-oriented Catholic PK-8 school located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we partner with families to provide a rich educational experience grounded in Catholic values.
The Opportunity:
Royal Palm Academy is seeking a full-time 5th Grade Teacher for the 2025–2026 academic year. This is a permanent, salaried position offering competitive compensation and benefits. We are looking for a passionate and experienced educator who will inspire academic success and foster moral and spiritual development in our students.
Position Overview:
As a 5th Grade Teacher at Royal Palm Academy, you will be instrumental in creating a classroom culture that encourages intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and joyful learning. Your work will help students thrive academically while forming strong moral character rooted in Catholic values.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Embrace and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of Royal Palm Academy
-
Create a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment where students feel valued and supported
-
Plan and deliver dynamic, standards-based lessons across core subject areas
-
Integrate Catholic teachings into instruction and daily routines
-
Implement effective classroom management strategies and promote positive behavior
-
Differentiate instruction to meet a range of student learning needs and abilities
-
Use technology to enhance instruction and maintain accurate records of student progress
-
Communicate regularly with parents and collaborate with colleagues to support student learning
-
Engage in school-wide activities and participate in professional development opportunities
Qualifications:
-
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent certification in Elementary Education or a related field
-
Minimum of 2 years of lead teaching experience at the K–5 level, or 5+ years in Catholic or independent schools
-
Passion for educating elementary-aged students and commitment to Catholic education
-
Excellent classroom management and instructional skills
-
Proficiency with educational technology and school management systems
-
Strong communication and interpersonal skills; team player mindset
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Practicing Catholic in good standing and able to teach Catholic theology
-
Previous experience in grade 5 instruction or equivalent student teaching
-
Experience with Orton-Gillingham or other multisensory reading programs (training available)
Physical and Other Demands:
-
Ability to lead classroom instruction and supervise students in various environments
-
Maintain professionalism and composure in a dynamic and active school setting
-
Capable of managing up to 18 students and supervising outdoor activities on uneven surfaces
-
Ability to lift and carry objects up to 20 pounds
-
Ability to perform CPR and emergency response procedures for children and adults
-
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with students, parents, and staff
To Apply:
Please submit a Resume/CV in Adobe PDF format to Michael Bussman, Head of School, at mbussman@royalpalmacademy.org. A cover letter or email expressing your interest in the 5th Grade Teacher position is optional.
Substitute Teachers (Ongoing)
Position Title: Substitute Teacher
About Us:
Royal Palm Academy is a joyful, vibrant, independent, and family-oriented Catholic PK-8 school located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we partner with families to provide a rich educational experience grounded in Catholic values.
The Opportunity:
Join our esteemed faculty as a Substitute Teacher. This is an as-needed hourly position with compensation set at $18.50/hour, $148/day. We are seeking passionate educators who are dedicated to fostering academic achievement, character development, and spiritual growth in our students across all grade levels.
Position Overview:
As a Substitute Teacher at Royal Palm Academy, you will play a vital role in maintaining a dynamic and engaging learning environment for our students. You will step into any grade level classroom, from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade, to provide high-quality instruction in the absence of the regular classroom teacher. Through innovative instruction and a commitment to Catholic values, you will empower students to continue their educational journey seamlessly.
Key Responsibilities:
- Embrace and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of Royal Palm Academy.
- Cultivate a positive and inclusive classroom culture where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to learn.
- Deliver dynamic lessons that align with grade-level curriculum standards and promote critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
- Integrate Catholic teachings and values into daily instruction and classroom activities, fostering spiritual growth and moral development.
- Establish clear expectations for behavior and conduct, and implement effective classroom management strategies.
- Adapt instruction to meet the diverse learning needs and abilities of students, ensuring all learners are challenged and supported.
- Utilize technology effectively to enhance teaching and learning experiences, and maintain accurate records of student progress and achievement.
- Communicate regularly and collaboratively with parents, colleagues, and school administration to support student success and well-being.
- Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and stay current with best practices in education.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent certification in Education or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years of classroom experience, preferably in a K-8 setting.
- Passion for teaching students across all elementary and middle school grades and dedication to the mission of Catholic education.
- Strong classroom management skills and ability to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
- Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft Office and student information systems.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to collaboration and teamwork.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Practicing Catholic in good standing and able to teach Catholic theology.
- Previous experience teaching in a K-8 setting, or experience student teaching.
- Experience with Orton-Gillingham (training available but not required).
Physical and Other Demands:
- Ability to perform various physical tasks, including standing, sitting, and monitoring students in various locations.
- Maintain composure and professionalism in a fast-paced and dynamic classroom environment.
- Ability to directly manage up to 20 students in a fast-paced classroom environment, as well as provide active supervision for the safety of children outdoors, including athletic fields and playgrounds, with uneven surfaces.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy objects up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to perform CPR and lifesaving skills for adults and children.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to interact effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
To Apply:
Please submit a Resume/CV in Adobe PDF format to Tammy Misinski, Head of Middle School, at tmisinski@royalpalmacademy.org. A cover letter or email expressing your interest in the Substitute Teacher position at Royal Palm Academy is optional.
About Royal Palm Academy:
Royal Palm Academy is an independent, Catholic, pre-kindergarten to eighth-grade school in Naples, Florida. Our mission is to partner with families to provide an education of rich academics with Catholic formation. Through integral formation, we teach the mind, educate the heart, and form the character of tomorrow's leaders. Join us in shaping the future of Catholic education at Royal Palm Academy.
Interested in a career at RPA? Send your resume!
Royal Palm Academy is always seeking exceptional candidates who are passionate about Catholic education. To apply for a position or to place a resume on file, please send a brief email or cover letter expressing your area of interest, and your resume to mbussman@royalpalmacademy.org. If you have applied in previous years, please re-submit an updated resume and cover letter expressing your interest to be considered for the upcoming school year.
Royal Palm Academy Lookbook
Why Naples?
- #1 Best Place to Live (US News & World Report, 25-26)
- #1 Best Place to Retire (US News & World Report, 25-26)
- #1 in Safest Places to Live
- Daytrip Access to Miami, Palm Beach, Tampa, and Orlando
- Home to miles of pristine beaches on the Gulf of Mexico
- Abundance of wildlife and nature preserves
- “Golf Capital of the World” with over 90 golf courses
Non-Discrimination Statement
Royal Palm Academy is an equal-opportunity employer. The school encourages, seeks, and will employ applicants the school deems qualified for the position sought, regardless of age, ethnic background, nationality, race, religion, or physical ability, with reasonable accommodation to fulfill the responsibilities of the position. However, as a Catholic school, Royal Palm Academy reserves the right to use religion as a hiring criterion for selected positions, as permitted by law.