Kapaa Elementary: Grade K Teacher, 604180 (2026-01279)

The Kindergarten Teacher is responsible for providing a high-quality, developmentally appropriate introduction to formal education. This role focuses on the "whole child," balancing rigorous academic standards in literacy and numeracy with essential social-emotional development. As a General Education teacher, you will lead the implementation of the Hawaii Common Core Standards while fostering a "Smart Start" environment that welcomes students and families into the KES community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Instructional Excellence Core Curriculum:

Deliver evidence-based instruction in English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, utilizing district-approved curricula (e.g., 95% Group, Wonders, EnVision, i-Ready).

Foundational Literacy:

Prioritize phonemic awareness, phonics, and oral language development to ensure all students are on the path to reading by third grade.

Differentiation:

Analyze data from i-Ready and other formative assessments to provide targeted small-group instruction that meets the diverse needs of early learners.

Assessment & Compliance KEA Administration:

Conduct the state-mandated Kindergarten Entry Assessment (KEA) within the required fall window to establish a baseline for every student.

Progress Reporting:

Maintain accurate records of student progress toward Hawaii Content and Performance Standards and issue quarterly report cards.

HiMTSS:

Participate in the Hawaii Multi-Tiered System of Support (HiMTSS) process to identify students needing additional academic or behavioral interventions.

Classroom Culture & Management Transition Support:

Facilitate a smooth transition from home/preschool to elementary school, focusing on classroom routines, independence, and social skills.

Positive Behavior Interventions:

Implement school-wide behavioral expectations (PBIS) with a focus on restorative practices and emotional regulation.

Family & Community Engagement Parent Partnerships:

Conduct and maintain regular communication with families to support student success.

Collaboration:

Actively participate in grade-level PLC (Professional Learning Community) meetings to align instruction and share best practices with the Kindergarten team. Preferred Skills Knowledge of the Science of Reading and foundational literacy strategies. Proficiency in digital tools for documentation and family communication (e.g., Class Dojo, Google Classroom). The Kapa'a Elementary Way At KES, our Kindergarten teachers are the architects of our school culture. We seek educators who are student-centered, empathetic, resilient, data-driven, and committed to the belief that all students can achieve growth when provided with the right support and high expectations. We believe that a strong Kindergarten experience is the most effective intervention we can provide for our students' long-term success. The Hawaii State Department of Education is committed to hiring highly qualified teachers in every classroom. With the exception of designated Career and Technology Education (CTE) positions, the minimum qualification to apply for a teacher, librarian or counselor position is a Bachelor's Degree. If you are hired without completing a Teacher's Education Program, you have a maximum of 3 years to obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license. You must enroll in a Program to continue employment with the Department. Within each year of employment, you must satisfactorily demonstrate active pursuit towards meeting Hawaii licensing requirements, as set forth by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB). It is your responsibility to ensure the program you have enrolled is aligned with the teaching line you are hired in. Upon hire you will need to have a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit. You may apply for your Hawaii teaching license on the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board Website ( https://hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org/ ).Please visit www.teachinhawaii.org to review the eligibility requirements for all bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement. To obtain a Hawaii Teaching License, which is required to receive any salary differentials, please apply with the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board at www.hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org . For more information about this school, please visit their website at: https://www.kapaaes.k12.hi.us/