2026-27 ESL Teacher/English Learner Program Teacher (ELPT)

Great Lakes Academy ESL Teacher/English Language Program Teacher About Great Lakes Academy Great Lakes Academy (GLA) is a high-performing, single-site charter school located in South Chicago. Our mission is to prepare all of our students with the fundamental academic skills, critical thinking ability, and strength of character to excel in high school, college, and a career of their choice. We empower all of our students with the education today that they will need to change the world tomorrow. Our staff work hard to close opportunity gaps for our scholars, and the data speaks for itself: In 2023, on the rigorous Illinois Assessment of Readiness, GLA had the highest percentage of students reaching proficiency in ELA and Math of all elementary schools in Hyde Park, Woodlawn, South Shore, and South Chicago. We are proud of our growth and achievement, but we have our sights set even higher for the 2024-25 school year, and we need your help to reach our goals. We are seeking a high-capacity, hungry, and humble ESL or Bilingual Teacher. An experienced and highly qualified candidate will also have the opportunity to serve in a leadership role as our English Language Program Teacher (ELPT), which would add $4,500 to the base salary. Job Overview A Great Lakes Academy Teacher will be part of a team of talented, committed teachers working to change the face of education on the Southeast Side of Chicago. Our Teachers take responsibility for the high academic achievement and character development of every child in their classrooms. Our ESL/Bilingual Teachers support our Multilingual Learners (MLLs) through both small‑group pull‑out instruction and whole‑group, in‑class accommodations/modifications. Candidates MUST have their Illinois PEL with ESL or Bilingual Endorsement. ESL Teachers will have $1,500 added to their base salary, and Bilingual Teachers will have $3,000 added to their base salary (based on years of experience). If also serving in the ELPT role, this person will be responsible for coordinating aspects of the school’s instructional program for Multilingual Learners (MLL’s). The ELPT is responsible for ensuring the school’s compliance with student program placement related to enrollment, file management, assessment coordination, and other required program services. An ELPT candidate must have experience with and be proficient in administering WIDA and ACCESS tests. The school's ELPT will have an additional $5,000 added into their salary. Job Responsibilities Internalize and deliver lesson plans that are rigorous, relevant, and engaging, setting students up for success in high school, college, and beyond. Lead a safe, structured, supportive classroom culture by building relationships with students, leveraging systems & routines, and consistently implementing GLA’s code of conduct. Use academic data to inform whole‑group, small‑group, and individual instruction and to drive student growth and achievement. Provide ESL instruction in core content (literacy, mathematics) for Multilingual Learners. Co‑plan with classroom teachers to align instruction with Common Core State Standards and WIDA ELD. Collaborate with classroom teachers regarding instructional scaffolding and support. Establish relationships with students’ families, communicating frequently and partnering in student success. Consistently model the Great Lakes Academy BE GREAT virtues: Gratitude, Respect, Excellence, Accountability, and Truthfulness. Collaborate with all staff members across team, grade level and subject area. Actively participate in weekly 1:1 coaching and regular professional development (PD), including our three‑week summer PD in August. Coordinate MLL Program compliance by creating schedules for MLL supports, leading and conducting MLL Screener and ACCESS testing, coordinate required communication to families of MLL students, keep and organize program files for MLL students, and other duties required by the school's language program. Participate as an instructional leader on the schools Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) to support high quality implementation of instructional practices for MLL's. Competencies Belief in and alignment with Great Lakes Academy’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non‑negotiable. Humility: Self‑reflective with a growth mindset and ability to accept and implement feedback. Reliability: Willingness to work hard, be flexible, and overcome obstacles in the pursuit of goals. Kindness: Strong relationship builder with students, families, and other staff members. Mastery of and enthusiasm for your academic subject. Willingness to place student achievement as highest goal. Committed to serving Black and Brown students on the South Side of Chicago. Job Requirements Bachelor’s degree required. ONE of the following certifications is required: Professional Educator License (PEL) with ESL endorsement. PEL with Bilingual endorsement. Transitional Bilingual Educator (TBE) license. Teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred, but not required. Eligibility to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. As an equal opportunity employer, Great Lakes Academy hires without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr ReNEW Schools