Description
Job Title: Middle School Language Arts Teacher
Job Classification: Certified/Licensed Instructional
Reports to: Middle School Principal
Work Schedule: Academic Calendar
General Description:
The Middle School Language Arts Teacher is responsible for planning and delivering standards-aligned instruction in reading, writing, speaking, and listening for middle school students. This role focuses on developing literacy skills, fostering a love for literature, and supporting students' critical thinking and communication abilities. The teacher builds a positive, inclusive classroom environment that supports diverse learners and promotes academic and personal growth.
Qualifications:
- Valid Indiana teaching license in English/Language Arts (Grades 5–9 or 5–12)
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, English, or a related field; Master’s preferred
- Strong understanding of middle school literacy standards and adolescent development
- Experience with reading and writing workshop models, differentiated instruction, and formative assessment
- Excellent communication, classroom management, and collaboration skills
- Experience working with diverse student populations preferred
Primary Responsibilities:
- Plan and implement daily ELA lessons aligned to Indiana Academic Standards and school curriculum
- Teach foundational reading comprehension, literary analysis, grammar, and writing structures
- Engage students in various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and informational texts
- Use data and assessments to inform instruction, monitor growth, and guide interventions
- Foster classroom discussions and writing projects that promote voice, creativity, and critical thinking
- Collaborate with colleagues to design interdisciplinary units and align instructional goals
- Provide targeted support for students through small groups, accommodations, and feedback
- Maintain accurate records of grades, attendance, and student progress
- Participate in IEP and 504 meetings to support students with learning differences
School Activities:
- Attend staff meetings, professional development, and grade-level team planning sessions
- Participate in student-led conferences, literacy events, and academic showcases
- Support school-wide initiatives such as writing contests, reading challenges, and SEL programming
- Engage with families through regular communication and involvement in classroom activities
Essential Skills and Abilities:
- Deep understanding of literacy instruction and middle school pedagogy
- Ability to differentiate lessons and scaffold complex skills for all learners
- Strong communication and relationship-building with students and families
- Creativity in lesson planning and classroom engagement
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and high academic standards
- Skill in integrating technology and media literacy into instruction
- Must demonstrate foundational professionalism, including consistent attendance, punctuality, adherence to school policies and procedures, and strong employability skills. These are considered essential, non-negotiable expectations of the role.
Requirements
- Valid Indiana teaching license in English/Language Arts (Grades 5–9 or 5–12)
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, English, or a related field; Master’s preferred
- Strong understanding of middle school literacy standards and adolescent development
- Experience with reading and writing workshop models, differentiated instruction, and formative assessment
- Excellent communication, classroom management, and collaboration skills
- Experience working with diverse student populations preferred