FAQ

Curious about our job application process and the Henry Ford Academy work experience?  The FAQ below provides answers to many of the common inquiries we receive from job seekers.  Be sure to send your additional questions through our Contact Us page.

What can I expect after I apply?

Once your application is received, you will receive an email confirming its receipt. Applicants who move to the interview process will be contacted directly by the interested site.

Is certification required of all teachers and staff?

The need for certification varies by site. In Michigan and Texas certification in subject area and grade level is required of all teachers. If one of the Henry Ford Academy sites is interested in an interview, they will ask for proof of current certification prior to the interview.

What are the opportunities for professional development?

Staff at Henry Ford Academies benefit from numerous professional development opportunities, including on-site conferences and seminars, workshops, summer opportunities and collaboration with other Academies and schools. Teachers are encouraged to engage in leadership opportunities so they may potentially advance in academic and administrative fields.

What is the work environment like?

Henry Ford Academy teachers and staff unanimously believe that all students can achieve at high levels. All teachers work collaboratively through grade-level and content-area teams to share experiences and best practices to facilitate student and staff success. A thorough screening and hiring process ensures that Academy staff members are qualified in their positions and share the belief that all students will succeed. Teachers are expected to infuse the resources in their community (cultural and community organizations, business, etc.) into their classes and will be supported in this work by staff members. Teachers also have the opportunity to develop elective courses in their areas of interest and that are complementary to core courses.

What tools will teachers have access to?

Teachers at Henry Ford Academies have laptop computers, Internet access, individual space in which to work, a school phone with email, an office with supplies such as paper, office needs and a photocopier. Other tools may be available at each site.

What is the salary and benefit structure at Henry Ford Academies?

Henry Ford Academy salaries vary by site but all schools offer competitive salaries. Teachers receive extra duty pay for after-school club and activity sponsorships and leadership in specified academic areas (such as Team Leader). Compensation includes a comprehensive benefits package with health, dental and life insurance. Other benefits may be available at each site.

How are Henry Ford Academies supported?

As public charter schools in their respective states, Henry Ford Academies receive state school aid (per-pupil funding), other state funding and federal funding. Schools also receive start-up money from a variety of private and public foundations based on location, some of which is provided by HFLI in combination with local sources. We continue to actively seek additional financial support through national and local fundraising.

How will the academic calendar be structured?

The school year at each school is slightly different and generally mirrors the school year calendars of nearby public school districts with appropriate academic schedules (for final exams, for instance), vacations and holidays. Professional development seminars are normally scheduled for just before and after the school year and may be required at other times.

What is a school day like?

The school day length varies by site, but is generally longer than traditional school days. All students receive daily instruction in core academic content and electives. They participate in Forum (a small group advisory period for academic planning and goal-setting) and Academic Coaching (time for independent and guided coursework, group and peer collaboration) daily. Students also have regular interaction with professionals from partner organizations, local employers, community organizations, and area colleges and universities.

What are the class sizes?

We believe that small class sizes are important to student learning and strive for an average class size of 24:1.