Instructional Specialist ESL

ESL Instructional Specialist for Newcomers (Itinerant)

Provide targeted professional development for teachers instructing Emergent Bilinguals, enabling them to implement instructional practices that develop linguistic, academic, and sociocultural skills within their classroom. Provide Emergent Bilinguals with appropriate learning activities and experiences in the core academic subject area assigned to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from accredited university
• Valid Texas teaching certificate with required ESL endorsements for assignment
• Knowledge of core academics and best practices for language acquisition
• General knowledge of curriculum and instruction
• Ability to instruct students and manage behavior
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Preferred: biliterate in both the English and Spanish language
• At least one-year student teaching or approved internship

Major

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Instructional Strategies:
  Understands the acquisition of a second language and designs instructional plans consistent with meeting the needs of English language learners. Demonstrates the ability to individually assess and monitor the students' skills in English. Assist with the transition from primary native language to English acquisition. Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the district's curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
  
  Use of distinct resources to create and implement lesson plans and show written evidence of preparation is required. Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies, and administrative regulations. Plan lessons and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, accommodations, materials, and equipment that reflect an understanding of the learning styles and needs of students receiving ESL services.
  
  Conduct assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan instructional activities. Work cooperatively with other teachers to modify and adapt curricula as needed Integrate and implement technology to strengthen the teaching/learning process.
• Student Growth and Development:
  Help students analyze and improve study methods and habits. Conduct ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal testing. Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by the campus principal. Be a positive role model for students, support the mission of the school district.
• Classroom Management and Organization:
  Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students. Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities. Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
• Communication:
  Advocates for ESL students and seeks necessary resources to ensure student success in all aspects of the educational environment. Work collaboratively with teachers to provide the most appropriate program based on the child's native language and readiness for English instruction. Communicates with students, parents, and teachers about student progress in a timely manner and in a fashion that demonstrates respect for cultural norms.
  
  Must demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with parents and community agencies in order to promote English language acquisition. Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers. Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members. Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Professional Growth and Development:
  Participate in staff development activities, to include the special needs of the ESL students, to improve job-related skills. Keep informed of and comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
• General Employee Requirements:
  Support and align work with the mission, vision, and beliefs of the district. Follow and support board policies in areas of related responsibility. Ensure district resources are managed effectively to maximize resources for student learning. Share in the development and implementation of district success plans. Actively participate in ongoing development to improve work quality and district contribution. Model integrity, work ethic, and professionalism as a suitable example for LISD students.