7th Grade ELAR Teacher

7th Grade ELAR Teacher Job Description Reports To Campus Principal / Academic Dean / Instructional Coach Position Summary The 7th Grade English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) to develop students' reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills. The teacher prepares students for success on STAAR assessments through rigorous, data-driven instruction, targeted interventions, and a strong emphasis on vocabulary and writing across the curriculum. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Instruction and Curriculum Implementation Deliver rigorous, TEKS-aligned ELAR instruction for 7th grade students. Design and implement lessons focused on reading comprehension, writing, vocabulary, and critical thinking. Provide explicit instruction in STAAR-aligned skills, including text analysis, inference, and written responses. Incorporate a variety of instructional strategies including close reading, collaborative learning, and writing workshops. Data Analysis and Assessment Use formative and summative assessment data to guide instruction. Analyze student performance data from STAAR assessments, benchmarks, Progress Learning, writing samples, and TEKS-based assessments. Monitor student growth and adjust instruction based on data. Participate in PLCs and data meetings to plan targeted instruction. Differentiation and Student Support Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including struggling readers and advanced students. Provide targeted interventions for students below grade level in reading and writing. Support students with special education services, 504 plans, and English learners. Implement strategies to improve vocabulary acquisition and writing across content areas. Classroom Environment and Management Establish a structured, engaging, and literacy-rich classroom environment. Implement effective classroom management strategies to maximize instructional time. Build strong relationships with students to support engagement and academic growth. Maintain clear routines and expectations. Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities Participate actively in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Collaborate with colleagues to align instruction and improve student outcomes. Communicate regularly with parents regarding student progress. Participate in campus and district professional development. Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree from an accredited university Certification Valid Texas Teaching Certificate in ELAR (Grades 4-8 or 6-12) Experience Experience teaching middle school ELAR preferred Knowledge of TEKS standards and STAAR expectations Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong understanding of literacy development, reading comprehension, and writing instruction Ability to analyze student data and adjust instruction accordingly Skill in teaching writing and providing meaningful feedback Strong classroom management and organizational skills Effective communication and collaboration skills Commitment to student achievement and growth Physical and Work Conditions Work primarily in a classroom setting Ability to supervise students and remain standing or walking for extended periods Occasional evening events or meetings