Elementary Classroom Teacher (grade 5)

About the Role

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts committed to providing a learning environment that opens doors of infinite possibilities for our students and staff. We serve approximately 24,000 students across a diverse district with over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented. We foster a positive, professional environment where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen, and heard, and are committed to equity and excellence.

We empower educators through competitive salaries, benefits, and numerous professional development opportunities shaped by data to ensure relevance and actionability. Instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches support teaching staff in lesson planning, data analysis, and management. Career advancement opportunities and "Grow our Own" programs help staff achieve degrees or certifications.

Responsibilities

• Instruct assigned classes at designated locations and times.
• Plan a program of study tailored to individual student needs, interests, and abilities.
• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning, appropriate to student maturity and interests.
• Guide the learning process toward district curriculum goals, establishing clear objectives for lessons, units, and projects.
• Prepare for classes and provide written evidence of preparation upon request.
• Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media, adapting to student needs and physical limitations of the location.
• Implement the district’s philosophy of education, instructional goals, and performance expectations through instruction and action.
• Assess student accomplishments regularly, provide progress reports, and communicate with parents as needed.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulations.
• Diagnose student learning challenges and seek assistance from district specialists when necessary.
• Take necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Follow the district’s code of conduct and develop fair classroom behavior rules.
• Plan and supervise assignments for paraprofessionals and provide written evaluations as required.
• Maintain an ongoing program of professional growth to meet district and personal expectations.
• Participate in the teacher evaluation process and contribute to mutual agreement on evaluation results.
• Attend building and district meetings to promote communication and mutual decision-making.
• Participate in school-sponsored activities (e.g., Back to School Night, Open House) as agreed upon with building administrators.
• Contribute to district and building decisions regarding budget, facilities, curriculum, and staff well-being.
• Strive to maintain and improve professional competence.

Requirements

• Highly qualified with required competency in the content area.
• Appropriate content/program area educator license (Elementary) and grade level (1-6) licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
• Bachelor’s Degree with appropriate license; Master’s Degree with content area license preferred and/or expected within 5 years.