Position Title:

ESL (English as a Second Language)

Teacher Reports To:

Principal Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree (minimum) from an accredited college or university. Valid Tennessee teaching license with the appropriate ESL/English as a Second Language endorsement. Knowledge of effective instructional strategies and best practices for teaching English language learners and multilingual learners. Understanding of language acquisition and the academic, linguistic, and cultural needs of English language learners. Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, and classroom management skills. Ability to establish positive relationships with students, parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, and community members. Ability to differentiate instruction and provide appropriate support based on students' individual language proficiency and academic needs.

Responsibilities:

Provide direct English language development instruction to English language learners in accordance with state standards, district requirements, and students' identified language needs. Develop and implement lesson plans, instructional materials, activities, assessments, and learning experiences designed to improve students' listening, speaking, reading, writing, and academic language skills. Assess students' English language proficiency and use assessment results to plan and adjust instruction. Monitor, document, and communicate student progress in English language development and academic achievement. Differentiate instruction and modify instructional materials and strategies to meet the individual language proficiency levels, learning needs, and abilities of students. Collaborate with classroom teachers, special education teachers, counselors, administrators, and other school personnel to support English language learners in the general education setting. Provide classroom teachers with strategies, resources, and support for effectively serving English language learners. Support the implementation of appropriate accommodations and instructional strategies for English language learners. Maintain accurate student records and documentation related to ESL services, assessments, progress, and program requirements. Communicate regularly with parents and legal guardians regarding student progress, educational needs, and available school and community resources. Promote a welcoming and inclusive learning environment that respects students' diverse cultural, linguistic, and educational backgrounds. Assist students in developing the language skills necessary to access grade-level academic content and participate successfully in the school environment. Collaborate with school personnel to facilitate appropriate placement, scheduling, services, and transitions for English language learners. Participate in professional development related to English language development, instructional practices, cultural responsiveness, and other areas supporting multilingual learners. Stay current with applicable federal and state requirements, district policies, and best practices related to the education of English language learners. Work collaboratively with other teachers to share best practices and provide meaningful feedback regarding student progress and instructional needs. Ensure that students receive appropriate opportunities and support to meet educational standards and school performance goals.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The position may require: Managing large groups of students with diverse academic, linguistic, cultural, and educational needs. Maintaining classroom discipline, responding appropriately to student behaviors, and adapting to unexpected situations. Regularly standing and moving throughout the classroom and school environment. Lifting and carrying instructional materials, supplies, and equipment. Writing on boards and reaching for instructional materials or items on shelves. Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking throughout the workday. Performing duties necessary to maintain a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment.