Middle School Language Arts Teacher

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing, foster communication skills, develop an understanding and appreciation of literature of all types, motivate students to read a wide variety of publications to derive information, comprehend and critically assess the reading materials, and to promote the development of skills in the field of English reading, grammar and syntax.

Essential Functions

• Develops and administers English education curriculum consistent with diocesan and school goals and objectives.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small-group instruction and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Teaches knowledge and skills in English grammar and syntax, sentence and paragraph structure, composition, vocabulary and proper word usage, word denotations and connotations, creative writing, independent thinking, communication and speaking.
• Works with students and others to prepare materials for inclusion in literary publications, contests, etc.
• Counsels students with adjustment and/or academic problems, or special academic interests.
• Prepares objectives and outlines for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines or requirements of the school, state, and diocese.
• Enforces administration policies and rules governing students.
• Identifies students' needs and cooperates with other professional staff members to assess and assist in solving students' learning and health problems.
• Uses technology and other equipment and materials to supplement presentations.
• Collaborates with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of secondary school programs.
• Prepares reports on students and activities as required by administration.
• Instructs and monitors students in the use and care of equipment and materials to prevent injuries and damage.
• Plans and supervises class projects, field trips, visits by guest speakers or other experiential activities, and guides students in learning from those activities.
• Attends staff meetings and serves on committees as required.
• Administers standardized ability and achievement tests, and interprets results to determine student strengths and areas of need.
• Performs administrative duties such as assisting in school libraries, hall and cafeteria monitoring, and bus loading and unloading.
• Selects, stores, orders, issues, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Sponsors extracurricular activities such as clubs, student organizations, and academic contests.
• Prepares and supervises students for Mass.

Responsibilities/Tasks for: Middle School Teacher

• Create an effective learning environment through functional and attractive displays, bulletin boards, and activity/learning centers.
• Observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.
• Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.
• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
• Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
• Instruct students individually and in groups, using various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
• Assign and grade class work and homework.
• Establish and maintain standards of student behavior needed to provide an orderly, productive classroom environment.
• Prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments to evaluate students' progress.
• Communicate with parents and school counselors on student progress.
• Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, diocesan policies, and administrative regulations.
• Guide and counsel students with adjustment and/or academic problems, or special academic interests.
• Prepare for assigned classes, and show written evidence of preparation upon request of immediate supervisors.
• Collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of secondary school programs.
• Prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.
• Instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment and materials to prevent injuries and damage.
• Plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guest speakers or other experiential activities, and guide students in learning from those activities.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Administer standardized ability and achievement tests, and interpret results to determine student strengths and areas of need.
• Perform administrative duties such as assisting in school libraries, hall and cafeteria monitoring, and bus loading and unloading.
• Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Sponsor extracurricular activities such as clubs, student organizations, and academic contests.
• Prepare and supervise students for Mass.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
• Must have the ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to perform all the technological requirements of classroom management.
• Must be able to hear and understand speech at normal classroom levels and in an outdoor environment.
• Must be able to speak in audible tones so that others may understand clearly in both a normal classroom environment and in an outdoor setting.
• Must have the physical ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, climb stairs, and reach overhead.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, And/or Abilities Required)

• Must possess a Bachelor's degree or higher, preferably in Education, English, Literature, or a related field.
• Teaching certification preferred. Otherwise, be willing to work towards obtaining one.
• Must possess the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff, parents, and the community.
• Must comply with PA State clearance requirements.
• Must be willing to respect the Catholic Church and follow our basic morality guidelines.