7th Grade ELA @ West Valley

7th Grade Language Arts Teacher

Position:
Middle School 7th Grade Language Arts Teacher

Location:

West Valley Middle School

Qualifications:

All qualifications are required unless otherwise indicated.

• Valid Washington State Teacher's Certificate with an endorsement in English Language Arts or English. Additional middle-level endorsements preferred.
• Evidence of successful middle-level teaching experience.
• Demonstrated experience with or willingness to implement Mastery-Based Learning (MBL) and Standards-Based Grading (SBG) practices; prior experience with MBL and SBG is preferred.
• Evidence of training and experience utilizing instructional technology, including grading systems, attendance tracking, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, email communication, and integration of technology into daily instruction.
• Evidence of successful instruction in reading, writing, speaking, listening, vocabulary development, and language conventions.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and effectively instruct students of diverse ability levels.
• Evidence of differentiating instruction to meet varied learning styles and needs, including both foundational support and enrichment opportunities.
• Ability to maintain a positive, productive learning environment with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Commitment to dynamic, student-centered, and literacy-rich instructional practices.
• Understanding of the Washington State English Language Arts Learning Standards and the Common Core State Standards.
• Willingness to participate in inclusive practices (e.g., co-teaching, co-planning, and other service delivery models).

Essential Job Functions:

• Teach 7th Grade English Language Arts aligned to Washington State standards.
• Prepare and deliver effective lessons, with written evidence of preparation available upon request.
• Create and maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
• Adhere to all West Valley School District and West Valley Middle School policies and expectations.
• Actively engage students in meaningful learning experiences that develop reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills.
• Incorporate higher-level thinking, literary analysis, research, and effective written communication into instruction, assessment, and daily student performance.
• Foster a classroom culture that promotes independent reading, academic discussion, collaboration, and a growth mindset.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and actively participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
• Establish and maintain open communication with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Demonstrate innovation and adaptability in response to evolving educational practices.
• Maintain a strong commitment to the success of all students.
• Participate in professional development aligned with district and school initiatives, including MBL and SBG implementation.
• Provide regular progress updates to parents and respond promptly to concerns.
• Maintain accurate student records, including grades, attendance, and required documentation.
• Enforce school rules and monitor student behavior in all settings.
• Implement requirements of IDEA, Section 504, and ADA to support students with disabilities.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies (e.g., workshop model, small-group instruction, literature circles, writing conferences, and technology integration).
• Promote student ownership of learning through Universal Design for Learning (UDL), including offering multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression.

Working Relationships:

• Collaborate with teachers, support staff, and administrators.
• Communicate regularly with students, parents/guardians, and colleagues.
• Partner with grade-level teams to plan instruction, analyze student data, and support continuous improvement.
• Work cooperatively with administrators in evaluation and observation processes.
• Provide guidance and direction to instructional paraprofessionals as needed.
• Effectively support a wide range of student abilities and behaviors, including managing challenging situations.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in a classroom setting.
• Requires prolonged standing, sitting, and computer use.
• May involve outdoor supervision in varying weather conditions.
• May require lifting, moving, or assisting students and equipment.
• May involve exposure to bodily fluids and cleaning agents.
• Requires the ability to manage high-stress or emotionally charged situations.

Working Environment:

• Physical demands may include lifting up to 50 pounds (or assisting with more), carrying, pushing, pulling, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and fine motor tasks.
• Work time is approximately divided among sitting (34%), walking (33%), and standing (33%).
• Work is typically performed in a clean, hazard-free environment.

Healthcare Benefits (SEBB):

(All Employees who work 630 hours per school year are eligible.)

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long Term Disability

Additional Benefits:

• Washington State Retirement (PERS,…