Job DetailsJob Location: Memphis, TN 38132Position Title: First Grade Teacher
Reports To: Principal
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time, 10-Month Employee
Position Summary
Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School seeks a dedicated, student-centered, and highly effective First Grade Teacher to provide high-quality instruction that fosters academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and a lifelong love of learning. The First Grade Teacher is responsible for creating a positive, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment that supports the developmental needs of all students while aligning instruction with Tennessee Academic Standards and the school's mission.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional Planning and Delivery
Develop and implement engaging lesson plans aligned with Tennessee Academic Standards and school curriculum.
Deliver rigorous instruction in reading, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of students.
Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, technology, and hands-on learning experiences to maximize student engagement.
Establish clear learning objectives and communicate expectations effectively to students.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date lesson plans and instructional records.
Classroom Management
Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and positive classroom culture that promotes respect and responsibility.
Establish classroom procedures and behavioral expectations consistent with school policies.
Implement effective classroom management strategies that support student success.
Foster positive relationships with students and encourage collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
Assessment and Data Analysis
Assess student progress through formative and summative assessments.
Analyze student data to guide instructional decisions and interventions.
Monitor student achievement and provide timely feedback to students and families.
Maintain accurate records of student attendance, grades, and performance data.
Participate in Response to Intervention (RTI) and other student support processes as needed.
Student Development
Support the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development of students.
Recognize and address individual student needs through appropriate interventions and referrals.
Encourage positive character development and citizenship.
Promote student confidence, independence, and a growth mindset.
Parent and Family Engagement
Establish and maintain positive communication with parents and guardians.
Conduct parent-teacher conferences and provide regular updates regarding student progress.
Respond promptly and professionally to parent inquiries and concerns.
Encourage family involvement in student learning and school activities.
Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities
Collaborate with grade-level teams, interventionists, special education staff, and administrators to support student achievement.
Participate in faculty meetings, professional development activities, and school events.
Maintain compliance with all state, federal, and school policies and procedures.
Perform supervisory duties as assigned, including arrival, dismissal, lunch, recess, and other school functions.
Support the mission, vision, and goals of Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School.
QualificationsQualifications
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education or a related field from an accredited college or university.
Licensure
Valid Tennessee Teaching License with appropriate Elementary Education endorsement.
Experience
Previous elementary teaching experience preferred.
Experience teaching primary grades is strongly preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of Tennessee Academic Standards and elementary instructional best practices.
Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
Ability to use educational technology and student data to improve instruction.
Commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence and equity.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the classroom for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry instructional materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
Ability to supervise students in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and other school settings.
Working Conditions
Elementary school classroom environment.
Frequent interaction with students, parents, staff, and community members.
Occasional evening or weekend activities may be required.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
