We are looking for a highly knowledgeable and passionate Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Elementary K–5 Social Studies to join our Curriculum and Instruction team. Reporting to the Senior SME, Social Studies, this role supports the development of high-quality print and digital instructional materials that meet the needs of teachers and students. The SME brings deep content expertise, classroom experience, and a commitment to culturally responsive instruction to ensure Discovery Education products deliver meaningful, standards-aligned learning experiences. This position partners closely with cross-functional teams to translate research-based practices into engaging digital and print solutions for classrooms.
In This Role You Will
Curriculum Development & Content Alignment
- Support the design, development, and review of K–5 social studies curriculum content
- Ensure alignment to national, state, and district standards, including the C3 Framework
- Contribute to the creation of lesson plans, assessments, teacher guides, and student-facing materials
- Incorporate inquiry-based learning and literacy integration into social studies resources
Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support
- Partner with instructional designers, editors, product developers, and external contractors to deliver high-quality content
- Support partnership and implementation teams to ensure successful integration of products into classrooms
- Provide expertise during curriculum adoption processes at state and district levels
Quality Assurance & Innovation
- Participate in quality assurance to confirm content accuracy, consistency, and instructional integrity
- Ensure content reflects culturally responsive practices and affirms diverse perspectives
- Leverage emerging tools, including artificial intelligence, to enhance workflows and explore innovative instructional design approaches
Professional Learning & Expertise Sharing
- Stay current with trends and research in elementary social studies education
- Share expertise with colleagues across the organization to strengthen content design and instructional approaches
Core Competencies for Success
- Expertise in K–5 social studies pedagogy, including inquiry-based learning and literacy integration
- Knowledge of state-specific standards and the C3 Framework
- Collaboration and teamwork across diverse functions
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Problem solving and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects independently
- Openness to feedback and ability to adapt quickly
- Commitment to equity and culturally responsive practices
Credentials and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in education, social studies, history, geography, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- Minimum of 3 years of classroom teaching experience in elementary grades (K–5)
- Experience in curriculum writing or instructional design preferred
- Teaching certification in elementary education or social studies strongly preferred
- Legal right to work in the United States
This role is designed to be hybrid/remote in our Charlotte HQs.
At Discovery Education, we are fulfilling our mission of preparing learners for tomorrow by creating innovative classrooms connected to today’s world.
Serving more than 4.5 million educators and 45 million students, available in approximately half of U.S. classrooms and primary schools in the UK, and more than 140 countries around the globe; we are on a journey to transform teaching and learning though innovative partnerships with school districts, states, ministries of education, and other like-minded organizations.
We have built an award-winning and highly reputable organization because of talented and driven people who work together to accelerate student achievement by tapping into students’ natural curiosity and desire to learn by capturing their minds and imagination through the fascination of Discovery.
Why Join Discovery Education?
Discovery Education believes empowering each team member is vital to cultivating high performing, highly engaged teams. Being a part of our team means we partner together to achieve mutual goals. To this end, Discovery Education offers a robust and comprehensive insurance package. You can find a complete listing on our Career Page.
Along with traditional insurance offerings, our inclusive offerings center around:
- Career Development Ownership – Be the driver of your success!
- Continuing Education AND Tuition Reimbursement Programs
- Mentorship program and collaboration with veteran leaders
- Constant opportunities for cross-functional training and skill building
- Uncapped career growth
Team Member Wellness – When you feel great, you do great work!
- Leave for life’s moments including 7 recognized holidays
- Take PTO without the vacation guilt
- Up to 12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave
- Annual Winter Holiday Break (typically the last week of December)
This opportunity is perfect for people interested in joining a high-performing, collaborative team, who enjoy a dynamic industry, and are excited about high-impact, project-based work.
Inspired? We would love the opportunity to review your candidacy! Select the blue “Apply Now” button at the bottom left of the screen to begin your application.
Discovery Education is an equal opportunity employer. Discovery Education is committed to being an employer of choice, not just a good place to work, but a great and inclusive place to work. To that end, we strive to recruit and maintain a workforce that meaningfully represents the communities we serve. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, protected veteran status or disabled status, or genetic information.
Job Details
Pay Type
Salary
