Teaching at Westland

With 130 students from 100 families, the school is intentionally small and intimate. Parents are active in numerous ways, supporting the work of the teachers and administrators through committees, field trip driving, Friday Hot Lunch teams, and fundraising. Each classroom has two full-time teachers for 22 students who also benefit from a variety of specialist-taught classes. Our progressive approach centers around a social studies-core curriculum that is project-based and integrates disciplines through high-interest studies. A deep belief in developmental theory and practice grounds the creation of curriculum by the teachers.

A cooperative, collaborative spirit permeates the classrooms and everything else from faculty meetings to trustee meetings, from curriculum planning to student Culminations.  Being part of this vibrant community with its rich history of traditions brings joy and camaraderie for teachers and staff.

Salary and Benefits

Employees at Westland enjoy excellent salaries and benefits including medical and dental insurance and a TIAA retirement plan. Teachers are members of the American Federation of Teachers Union. New employees are supported by a mentoring program, and opportunities for relevant professional development are available to all throughout the year.

Location

The campus is located on top of the Santa Monica Mountains near the Sepulveda Pass in the West Los Angeles area, with access from the city or the Valley.  Our nature-rich two acre campus allows for gardens, a pond, chickens, and plenty of outdoor play space.

History

Westland School was founded in 1949 by educators committed to a progressive educational model built on democracy and community. A parallel commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion has defined the school’s philosophy and practice for 70 years. The school engenders passionate engagement and loyalty among families and employees alike, resulting in a strong through-line from its founding principles.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Westland School promotes a community of inclusion and emphasizes an appreciation of the value of all people. The school maintains a policy of nondiscrimination toward all employees and applicants for employment. Thus, to the full extent required by law, the school will not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on their race, color, religious creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other protected characteristic, all as defined by applicable law. The school also does not discriminate against employees or applicants on account of pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition. Discrimination based on any ground listed in this paragraph is unlawful.