Elementary Teacher - Washington Connections Academy

About the School

At Connections Academy, helping students maximize their potential and meet the highest performance standards through a uniquely individualized learning program is at the core of our mission. Founded in 2001, Connections Academy delivers high-quality, highly accountable online education to students in grades K-12. Hallmarks include personalized learning, an award-winning curriculum and Education Management System (EMS), dedicated state-certified teachers, and a supportive school community.

Parents of enrolled students consistently share their satisfaction: 92% “would recommend the schools to other families” and 95% say the curriculum is “high quality.” Connections Academy-supported public schools serve students in 27 states, while the private online school, International Connections Academy, meets the needs of students worldwide. Connections Academy is part of Pearson’s Online & Blended Learning group.

Washington Connections Academy (WACA) is a tuition-free, virtual public school serving students in grades K-12 statewide. WACA operates in partnership with the Mary M. Knight School District and Goldendale School District and is accredited by Cognia, recognized as a Cognia School of Distinction in 2022.

About the Role

This is a remote, full-time position for applicants residing in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho. The Certified Elementary Teacher will manage instructional programs, consulting regularly with caretakers, Learning Coaches, and students to ensure successful completion of each student’s instructional program.

Responsibilities

• Homeroom Roles
  • Host a homeroom of students, acting as a role model and mentor throughout the school year.
  • Host weekly homeroom LiveLessons.
  • Support students and families through key school year tasks, including Welcome Calls, Intent to Return, and monthly WSLP Progress Checks.
  • Encourage student engagement in lessons and LiveLessons.
  • Welcome assigned homeroom students and families within their first week of enrollment.
  • Frequently check in with students and families regarding academics, skill-building, and graduation/promotion, especially if off-track.
• Content Roles
  • Deliver at least one synchronous LiveLesson per course or a combination of LiveLessons and office hours weekly, along with asynchronous support videos.
  • Operate within the school’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports model, using data to provide Tier 1 differentiated instruction and collaborate on Tier 2 and 3 interventions.
  • Grade all submitted assignments within 8 days, providing clear, constructive feedback.
  • Review and adapt curriculum to increase student understanding, working directly with students and caretakers.
  • Develop detailed knowledge of assigned courses and general knowledge of the K-8 curriculum.
  • Support students and caretakers with alternate lessons, assessments, and strategies to meet individual learning goals.
  • Consult with instructional staff and learning specialists to develop alternate enrichment activities and modifications.
• Contact Roles
  • Communicate regularly with caretakers, students, and instructional staff via computer and telephone.
  • Connect with each content-area student individually at least once per semester to discuss progress and needs.
  • Log all contacts (successful and unsuccessful) within 24 hours.
  • Meet weekly student contact requirements as determined by school leadership.
• Community Roles
  • Coordinate and attend social activities and field trips for students and families, integrating them into the curriculum when possible.
  • Develop virtual methods to create and maintain a “school community.”
  • Participate in state testing administration, including in-person proctoring of WIDA and/or SBAC/WCAS testing.
  • Participate in student recruiting sessions and other marketing efforts.
• Behind-the-Scenes Roles
  • Collaborate as a member of IEP and 504 teams, providing insights on student progress and feedback on goals.
  • Work within a professional learning community to review student progress data and improve teaching practices.
  • Collaborate with Advisory Teachers and School Counselors to ensure students meet progress and goal requirements.
  • Attend in-person training sessions and team-building activities throughout Washington.
  • Report and refer critical incidents as required by law and ethical standards.
  • Stay current with state regulations on incident reporting and documentation.
  • Actively participate in all assigned professional development and training, including SEL and DEI.
  • Complete duties for assigned or volunteered representative or Career Ladder positions (e.g., Attendance Rep, Communication Rep).
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Washington teacher certification in K-8 Elementary Education.
• Residence in Washington preferred.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong technology skills, including Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Zoom, Nearpod, and data tools (spreadsheets, databases).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse cultural, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds.
• Strong attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to foster an inclusive work and school environment.
• Student- and family-focused approach with a commitment to culturally responsive teaching.
• Ability to travel for key school events, including overnight stays (e.g., back-to-school training, state testing, graduation, marketing events, field trips).
• Must be able to use a personal electronic device and email for 2-step authentication.

Pay

Salary based on experience and education: $44,500 per year.

School Values

Washington Connections Academy strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values diversity. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to ensure everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, even if they don’t meet every qualification listed.

Washington Connections Academy acknowledges its operations span the traditional homelands of Washington’s Indigenous Peoples. We express deep respect and gratitude for the land and its original inhabitants.