Reports To:  School Principal and Director of Programs for English Learners (EL)

Position Purpose:   

Educators of English Learners who are new to the country understand that instruction in language is not separate from the learning of content and they must demonstrate a commitment to learning for all students by maintaining organized student-centered classrooms utilizing push-in, pull-out, and sheltered instruction.  Instruction will be content-rich and standards-based. Individual needs are met through the use of assessments and data; and by using a variety of instructional strategies that are reflective of current best practices and research. The teacher for English Learners maintains, organizes, and administers programs, activities, and curricula.

Qualifications:                 

• Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) licensure requirements fulfilled
• ESOL endorsement added to license
• Minimum of 2-3 years as an EL teacher or experience teaching English learners
• A sound basis in ESOL teaching methodology
• Desire and ability to develop cultural knowledge and a broad understanding of students' native cultures
• Training and/or experience using cooperative learning strategies
• Willingness to collaborate with EL coaches to continue the process of acquiring, improving, and enhancing EL pedagogy
• Strong classroom management skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work with professional colleagues and the general public
• Ability to instruct and relate to non-English speaking students from varying backgrounds and academic skill levels
• While being bilingual is beneficial, it is not required

Physical/Emotional Requirements:  The incumbent may be required to use the below requirements during any part of the working day.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk, and hear.  The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.  The employee is required to interact with staff and to meet demands from several people. 

Performance Responsibilities: 

• Performance Responsibilities:  The person will participate in lesson design,  assessment development, professional development, and overall department planning.  Duties include:
  • Planning lessons
  • Assisting in the selection and approval of instructional materials, supplies, and equipment
  • Assessing students for English proficiency utilizing state approved tests
  • Adapting curriculum to meet the needs of English learners with varying intellectual abilities while accommodating a variety of instructional activities
  • Maintaining accurate records
  • Assisting with curriculum revision when appropriate
  • Collaborating with school counselors to assist with building student schedules
  • Providing professional development to help teachers understand the extensive range of learning experiences necessary for newcomers
  • Communicating effectively with administrators, parents, students, and staff (interpreters available when needed)
  • Gathering and submitting required information and documents for audits
  • Supporting the mission of Topeka Public Schools
  • Fulfilling other duties as assigned 

Terms of Employment:

9 month teacher contract; $500 Addendum with ESOL Endorsement. Salary and work year to be determined by the Board of Education.

Evaluation:

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the board policy on evaluation of Support Service Personnel

Significant associations:

The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor