English Language Arts - Middle School

Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher

The Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher is responsible for providing high-quality instruction that develops students' literacy, communication, and critical thinking skills while promoting academic excellence and personal growth. The teacher plans and delivers standards-based instruction aligned with the Indiana Academic Standards, creates a positive learning environment, and collaborates with students, families, colleagues, and administrators to support student success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging lessons aligned with the Indiana Academic Standards for English Language Arts.
• Teach reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, and language skills using a variety of instructional strategies.
• Develop students' critical thinking, analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Create and maintain a positive, safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment conducive to learning.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the academic needs of all learners.
• Utilize formative and summative assessments to evaluate student learning and guide instructional decisions.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, grades, assessments, and student progress.
• Provide timely feedback to students to encourage continuous growth and achievement.
• Integrate instructional technology and digital resources into classroom instruction.
• Collaborate with grade-level teams, special education staff, EL teachers, counselors, interventionists, and administrators to support student achievement.
• Implement accommodations and modifications as required by Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Plans, English Learner (EL) plans, and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).
• Communicate effectively and professionally with parents and guardians regarding student progress and classroom expectations.
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), curriculum development, staff meetings, professional development, and school improvement initiatives.
• Supervise students during assigned duties, extracurricular activities, field trips, and other school-sponsored events as assigned.
• Maintain confidentiality of student and district information.
• Comply with all Griffith Public Schools policies, administrative guidelines, and applicable state and federal laws.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Building Principal or District Administration.

Qualifications:

• Required:
  
  Valid Indiana Teaching License with appropriate English Language Arts licensure. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Knowledge of Indiana Academic Standards. Demonstrated ability to establish positive relationships with students, staff, and families. Strong oral, written, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Preferred:
  Master's degree. Previous middle school teaching experience. Experience integrating technology into instruction. Knowledge of differentiated instruction and evidence-based literacy practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of effective instructional strategies for middle school learners.
• Knowledge of curriculum development and assessment practices.
• Ability to motivate and engage diverse learners.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• Ability to analyze student data to improve instruction.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and families.
• Proficiency with educational technology and student information systems.
• Commitment to professional growth and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Sit, bend, reach, kneel, and stoop as necessary.
• Lift and carry instructional materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Operate classroom technology and office equipment.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Working Conditions:

• Classroom and school environment.
• Frequent interaction with students, staff, parents, and community members.
• Occasional evening meetings, conferences, professional development, or school events.
• Moderate noise levels consistent with a middle school setting.

Evaluation:

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with the Griffith Public Schools Teacher Evaluation Plan, Board policies, administrative guidelines, and applicable Indiana law.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Griffith Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The District is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate in employment practices in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.