Middle Grades English Teacher

Position Summary

The Grade 5-6 English Teacher will design and deliver a dynamic and engaging curriculum for students . This role requires a learning environment that encourages curiosity and critical thinking. This role is responsible for creating a flexible educational program and a class environment favorable to learning and personal growth, establishing effective rapport with students, motivating students to develop skills, attitudes and knowledge needed to provide a good foundation for middle school education in accordance with each student’s ability;

and for establishing good relationships with parents and other faculty and staff members. It is expected that the English teacher will have the knowledge to teach students varied activities designed to develop reading and writing skills and concepts.

• Integrate Ridgefield Academy’s mission and values into classroom practices, fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and kindness.
• Actively participate in school events, committees, and initiatives to strengthen the school community.
• Uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in interactions with students, families, and colleagues.

• Plan and deliver a hands-on, inquiry-based curriculum engaging students in reading, writing and public speaking.
• Employ diverse instructional strategies to meet the needs of all learners, including differentiation, formative assessments, and technology integration.
• Utilize diverse instructional strategies, including hands on activities, technology integration, and interdisciplinary approaches, to meet the diverse needs and learning styles
• Assess and monitor student progress through formative and summative assessments, providing timely and constructive feedback
• Set high academic expectations while scaffolding learning to support student growth and foster critical thinking.
• Incorporate innovative teaching practices that prepare students for future challenges, encouraging creativity and problem-solving.

• Create a positive, inclusive, and safe classroom environment where all students feel valued and supported.
• Actively teach and model social-emotional skills, incorporating restorative practices to resolve conflicts and promote accountability.
• Implement consistent and fair classroom management strategies, cultivating a productive and collaborative atmosphere.
• Develop strong rapport and relationships with students and fellow faculty.

• Partner with the Head of Middle and Upper School, Assistant Head for Academics, grade-level teams, learning specialists, and counselors to advocate for student well-being and success.
• Build strong partnerships with families, maintaining transparent and timely communication through conferences, progress reports, and classroom updates.
• Engage in school-wide professional learning communities, contributing to team initiatives and strategic priorities such as DEIB and SEL programming.

• Demonstrate a growth mindset by seeking out professional development opportunities and engaging in reflective practice to improve teaching effectiveness.
• Regularly assess and adapt teaching strategies based on student outcomes, feedback, and evolving educational standards.
• Serve as a collaborator, sharing expertise and supporting the professional development of colleagues.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Experience:
  
  Minimum of 3 years of experience teaching with elementary or middle school students, ideally in an independent school setting.
• Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of inquiry-based curriculum design, differentiation, and assessment strategies.
  • Proven ability to cultivate an inclusive classroom environment that prioritizes student agency and growth.
  • Ability to be nimble and flex into your growth zone for continuous learning and development
  • Proficiency in integrating technology into teaching and learning.