5th Grade Teacher - 1.0 FTE at Oscar Howe Elementary

About the Role

At Oscar Howe Elementary, we believe that education is a team effort between staff, families, students, and the broader community. As part of our team, you'll join a supportive and collaborative environment where relationships matter and every child's success is a shared priority. We value staff who are dedicated, compassionate, and committed to helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. If you're passionate about making a difference and working alongside families and colleagues to provide meaningful learning experiences, Oscar Howe is the place for you!

Learn more about Oscar Howe Elementary at: https://www.sf.k12.sd.us/o/ohes

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and endorsements in the areas of teaching assignment.
• Current, valid South Dakota teaching certificate (or alternative certification/licensure).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Skills in human relations, leadership, and conflict management.
• Knowledgeable of teaching techniques that meet the diverse needs of students.
• Demonstrated skills in the use of technology to enhance student learning.

Physical Requirements

• Hand-eye and mind-eye coordination.
• Constant hearing; intermittent speaking, standing, walking, and writing.
• Frequent carrying, keyboarding, and other repetitive motions.

Certification

This position requires a valid South Dakota teaching certification with endorsements in the assigned content area. Endorsement requirements may vary based on specific course assignments.

Questions about SD teaching certification: South Dakota Department of Education

Interested in becoming a contract teacher but don’t hold a traditional teaching degree? The South Dakota Department of Education offers an Alternative Certification program. Individuals will take 15 credits plus Praxis exams while performing their duties as a contract teacher for a South Dakota school district. Alternative Certification is available for most positions 5th grade through high school. Candidates must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree unless pursuing a CTE Instructor position. You MUST obtain your Alternative Preliminary Certificate BEFORE applying for a teaching position. Apply for the preliminary certificate by completing the "Initial Educator Application" here: SD Educator Portal

Learn more about Alternative Certification: SD DOE Alternative Certification

Youth Suicide Awareness and Prevention Training

South Dakota Codified Law 13-42-71 requires certified educators to complete at least one hour of approved youth suicide awareness and prevention training every five years. You will be required to provide your most recent certificate of completion prior to starting employment. Visit https://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/ to view the list of approved trainings and detailed instructions for completion.

Responsibilities

• Plan and Prepare Instructional Tasks
  • Plan instructional tasks that are meaningful and related to learning goals.
  • Provide instruction to students by implementing District curriculum.
  • Maintain a strong instructional focus utilizing the elements of effective instruction.
  • Communicate a high level of expectation and clear learning goals to students.
  • Adapt instruction to meet the needs of all students and address various learning styles.
  • Sequence content at an appropriate pace and use appropriate levels of questioning to promote understanding.
  • Relate lesson content to prior and future learning.
  • Require students to summarize information in written and/or verbal form.
  • Appropriately recognize and reinforce individual student effort.
  • Represent knowledge/information non-linguistically through a variety of methods.
  • Organize students in cooperative or ability groups when appropriate.
  • Require students to analyze and apply knowledge.
  • Display enjoyment, humor, and enthusiasm for teaching and expect students to enjoy learning.
  • Conduct ongoing assessments for learning.
• Provide Effective Classroom Environment
  • Establish appropriate classroom rules and procedures that are clearly understood by all students.
  • Effectively and consistently enforce rules and follow procedures.
  • Redirect students naturally and immediately without disrupting others.
  • Be well-organized and have all materials, equipment, etc., ready for immediate use.
  • Carry out smooth and effective transitions (e.g., from one activity to another, as students enter and leave the room).
  • Maximize time on purposeful instructional tasks.
  • Begin and end class period with focus on learning.
  • Establish a positive learning environment.
• Participate in Professional Growth Opportunities and Demonstrate Professionalism
  • Participate in ongoing professional growth.
  • Engage in school/professional and/or community organizations or events.
  • Complete routine assigned tasks and comply with District requirements.
  • Promote the education profession.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues, parents, and students.
  • Conduct parent-teacher conferences in accordance with District policy.
  • Follow District and building policies and procedures.
  • Support District goals.
  • Report student progress to parents and students.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

View the complete job description here: Classroom Teacher - General Education

Pay

Starting at $53,981 to $60,793 per year, based on experience.

View the complete salary schedule here: 2026-2027 Teacher Salary Schedule

Pay Day: Last working day of each month.

Schedule

• Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
• 1.0 FTE, 40 hours per week, 9 months.
• 2026-2027 New SFEA Staff Calendar.

Benefits

Benefits are available for positions 20 hours per week or more.