First Grade Teacher

First Grade Teacher - Cornell Elementary 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 a 1st Grade Teacher at Cornell Elementary School. This position provides the opportunity to inspire and support upper elementary students during a critical stage of academic, social, and emotional development.

The ideal candidate will create a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where students are challenged to think critically, collaborate effectively, communicate confidently, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Educators in this role will design and deliver meaningful instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards while supporting the whole child through relationship-centered practices and high expectations for student achievement.

This role is ideal for educators who value elementary learners' curiosity, creativity, and growing independence. Successful candidates will contribute positively to a collaborative school culture and demonstrate a commitment to equitable outcomes and academic excellence for all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.

Instruction & Student Learning
• Plan and deliver engaging instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards across core content areas, including English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
• Foster a student-centered classroom environment that promotes inquiry, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Develop meaningful learning experiences that encourage student engagement, curiosity, and academic growth.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of learners.
• Utilize formative and summative assessment data to monitor student progress and inform instructional decision-making.
• Implement evidence-based instructional practices that support literacy development, mathematical reasoning, and content-area learning.
• Create opportunities for student voice, choice, reflection, and authentic application of learning.
• Integrate instructional technology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
• Support students in developing organizational skills, independence, responsibility, and positive learning habits.

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 proactive, restorative, and relationship-centered practices.
• Support students' social-emotional growth, self-regulation, and positive identity development.
• Foster a classroom culture that values diversity, belonging, empathy, and mutual respect.
• Encourage student participation in school activities and opportunities that support personal growth and leadership development.

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities
• Collaborate regularly with grade-level teams, special education staff, interventionists, specialists, counselors, and support staff to support student success.
• Participate actively in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and district initiatives.
• Communicate effectively and consistently with families regarding student progress, classroom activities, and student needs.
• 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.
• Contribute positively to a collaborative and student-focused school culture.

Qualifications

Education, Certification & Experience
• Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education or related field required.
• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate required.
• Preferred Michigan certification endorsement: K-5 All Subjects (ZG) or equivalent elementary certification.
• Successful elementary teaching experience preferred.
• Experience implementing student-centered instructional practices and differentiated instruction preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Knowledge of elementary curriculum, instructional best practices, and Michigan Academic Standards.
• Ability to create engaging, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environments.
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to support literacy development, mathematical reasoning, and interdisciplinary learning.
• 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 Cornell Elementary School?

Cornell Elementary School provides a welcoming and supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Staff work collaboratively to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences that foster curiosity, confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of belonging for every child.

Educators at Cornell Elementary benefit from:
• Highly engaged and enthusiastic learners
• Strong instructional leadership and collaborative grade-level 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 elementary school community dedicated to helping students build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and future success.

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