Secondary English Language Arts Teacher, Middle School

Language Arts EducatorReports To: Building PrincipalPosition Purpose:Topeka Public Schools language arts educators demonstrate a commitment to learning for all students by maintaining organized, student-centered classrooms, by presenting content-rich and standards-based lessons and activities, by meeting individual needs through the use of assessments and data, and by using a variety of instructional strategies that are reflective of current best practices and research.Qualifications:The classroom teacher will meet all qualifications and behavior standards as set by the Kansas Department of Education. In accordance with certification requirements and the performance expectations of Topeka Public Schools, all classroom teachers shall meet the following employment criteria:The minimum of a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university.A valid Kansas Teacher's Certificate (applicable level-area endorsements preferred).A completed credential file that meets the Topeka Public Schools standards.Professional verification of successful classroom teacher performance and/or student teaching experience.Evidence of the willingness and the ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by the State Board of Education.Regular and predictable attendance is essential.ESOL endorsement is preferred.Physical/Emotional Requirements:(The incumbent may be required to use the below requirements during any part of the working day.) While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk, and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee is required to interact with staff and to meet demands from several people. The employee is responsible for the work output of others. On occasion, the employee may be required to work extended hours.Performance Responsibilities:Adapts language arts material and methods that guide and challenge pupilsEffectively implements the district-adopted curriculumDevelops standards for critical analysis through group discussionsEvaluates each pupil's progress in language arts skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing)Works with students and other classroom teachers in such activities as preparing material for the school newspaper or yearbook or coordinating entries in essay contestsModifies teaching to meet individual student needsCommunicates high expectations to all learnersSeeks, listens, and responds appropriately to suggestions, requests, and concernsIncorporates use of appropriate technologyDevelops lesson plans by incorporating effective lesson designUses a variety of research-based instructional practices and current resources that support instructional goals and student needsModels and facilitates higher-order thinking, problem solving, creativity, and flexibilityRoutinely integrates a variety of informal and formal assessments into instructionUses a variety of data in making instructional decisionsMakes students aware of assessment standards/learner expectationsAssists students in developing self-assessment skillsMaintains up-to-date records of student progressCreates a positive, inviting, and safe learning environmentDevelops, models, and practices procedures and routinesCommunicates realistic and consistent expectations for student behavior and applies appropriate consequencesDemonstrates conflict resolution skillsModels enthusiasm for learning and teachingTreats students, patrons, and colleagues with dignity and respectMaintains confidentialityUses monitoring techniques to facilitate learningDemonstrates knowledge of how subject matter/disciplines are integratedDemonstrates how subject matter is organizedCommunicates effectively and promotes positive interpersonal relationshipsEstablishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior to provide an orderly, productive environment during instructional activitiesSupervises pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned working dayOversees assigned budgetsSupports the District's educational mission for all students and implements all Board regulations and policies in a fair and equitable mannerPerforms other tasks and assumes other responsibilities as the Superintendent or designee may assignTerms of Employment:12 months; salary and work year to be determined by the Board of Education.Evaluation:Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board policy on evaluation of professional certified personnel.Significant associations:The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor.