English Teacher

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

Position Status: Full Time
Start Date: 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…