English Teacher

English Teacher (Secondary) - Okemos High School
Okemos Public Schools | Okemos, Michigan

Position Status: Full Time
Start Date: 2026-2027 School Year
Salary/Benefits : Per OEA Master Agreement

Summary

Okemos Public Schools is seeking a passionate, student-centered educator to serve as an English Teacher at Okemos High School. This position provides the opportunity to engage high school students in rigorous, engaging, and meaningful English Language Arts learning experiences that promote critical thinking, communication, creativity, analysis, and a lifelong appreciation for reading and writing.

The ideal candidate will foster an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where students are empowered to develop strong literacy skills, communicate effectively, analyze complex texts, and express ideas thoughtfully through written and verbal communication. Educators in this role will design meaningful instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards while supporting the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of students.

This role is ideal for educators who value authentic student engagement, inquiry-based learning, collaboration, and relationship-centered practices. Successful candidates will contribute positively to a collaborative team culture and demonstrate a commitment to equitable outcomes for all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.

Instruction & Student Learning

• Plan and deliver engaging English Language Arts instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards.
• Foster a student-centered classroom environment emphasizing critical thinking, communication, creativity, collaboration, and analytical reasoning.
• Develop meaningful learning experiences that promote literacy development, reading comprehension, writing skills, discussion, research, and textual analysis.
• Deliver rigorous instruction that supports student growth, engagement, and academic achievement.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of secondary learners.
• Utilize formative and summative assessment data to monitor student progress and guide instructional decision-making.
• Create opportunities for student voice, inquiry, reflection, discussion, and authentic application of learning.
• Support student development of effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Prepare students for advanced coursework and postsecondary opportunities, where applicable.

Culture, Climate & Student Support

• Build positive, respectful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Establish and maintain a safe, inclusive, and equitable classroom environment.
• Promote positive student behavior through restorative and relationship-centered practices.
• Support students' social-emotional growth, well-being, and postsecondary readiness.
• Encourage student engagement in academic enrichment opportunities and co-curricular activities, where applicable.
• Support students' social-emotional growth, well-being, and postsecondary readiness.
• Encourage student engagement in career exploration, leadership development, and future planning.

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate regularly with colleagues, counselors, career-focused programs, and support staff to enhance student learning opportunities.
• Participate actively in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and district initiatives.
• Communicate effectively and consistently with families regarding student progress and classroom experiences.
• Maintain accurate student records, assessment data, and instructional documentation.
• Demonstrate continuous professional growth and reflective instructional practice.
• Support school and district initiatives aligned with the Strategic Plan and Equity Plan.

Qualifications

Education, Certification & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in English and Education or related field required.
• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate required.
• Preferred Michigan certification endorsement: BA
• Successful secondary teaching experience preferred.
• Experience with student-centered instructional practices and literacy-focused instruction preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of secondary English Language Arts curriculum, literacy instruction, writing instruction, and Michigan Academic Standards.
• Ability to create engaging, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environments.
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to foster critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and analytical reasoning skills in students.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, families, and community partners.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to integrate instructional technology effectively to support teaching and learning.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices.

Why Okemos High School?

Okemos High School provides a dynamic and academically rigorous environment where students are encouraged to pursue excellence, innovation, leadership, and meaningful learning opportunities. Staff work collaboratively to support student achievement while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and college and career readiness.

Educators at Okemos High School benefit from:

• Highly engaged and motivated students
• Strong instructional leadership and collaborative teams
• Supportive families and community partnerships
• Opportunities for innovation and professional growth
• A district-wide commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement

This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly respected high school community committed to preparing students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

About Okemos Public Schools

Located in the greater Lansing area and neighboring Michigan State University, Okemos Public Schools is one of Michigan's premier school districts. Serving over 4,500 students, the district is consistently recognized for academic excellence, innovative programming, and a strong commitment to student success.

Okemos is known for its highly qualified staff, engaged families, and diverse, globally minded community. The district's commitment to equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement creates an exceptional environment for both students and educators.

The surrounding community offers access to a vibrant college-town atmosphere, cultural opportunities, outdoor recreation, and an outstanding quality of life.

Pursuant to Public Act 68 of 1993 and Public Act 83 of 1995, selected new employees shall submit to fingerprints and a criminal background check at the employee's expense.

It is the policy of the Board of Education that the District will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis. The District shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination.

Traditionally marginalized candidates are encouraged to apply.

Inquiries or complaints by applicants or employees related to discrimination should be directed to:

Director of Human Resources
Okemos Public Schools
4406 N Okemos Rd
Okemos, MI 48864
Phone: View phone number on click.appcast.io