Emerson Elementary Classroom Teacher (K-5), Indianola, Iowa

Job Title: Elementary Classroom Teacher (K-6)

SUMMARY:
The Elementary Classroom Teacher is responsible for creating a positive and supportive learning environment for students at the elementary level. The teacher designs and implements instructional activities that promote the social, emotional, and intellectual growth of students, fostering their development as capable, responsible, and engaged individuals. This role focuses on meeting the diverse needs of students, promoting academic achievement, and supporting students' overall well-being.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
This position requires on-site performance of essential duties. Additional duties may be assigned.

• Report to work on time and regularly, delivering the District-approved curriculum in a structured and engaging manner.
• Develop, plan, and implement lesson plans and instructional materials that meet the needs of individual students and small groups.
• Adapt the curriculum and instructional strategies to provide differentiation for students at various ability levels.
• Foster a classroom environment conducive to learning, which supports the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth of all students.
• Design developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with grade-level Iowa Core standards and communicate objectives clearly to students.
• Use a variety of instructional techniques, including technology and media, tailored to the needs and capabilities of the student group.
• Promote high standards of behavior and effective classroom management to maintain an optimal learning atmosphere.
• Regularly assess students’ academic and social growth, maintaining accurate records, and preparing progress reports as required.
• Identify student needs, make appropriate referrals, and assist in developing strategies for individual education plans (IEPs) as necessary.
• Support the administration in enforcing school policies and maintaining order in the classroom and across the school community.
• Communicate with parents regularly through phone calls, conferences, newsletters, or other means to inform them of student progress and classroom activities.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise the work of teacher associates, volunteers, and parents both in the classroom and on field trips.
• Participate actively in building-level committees, district-wide initiatives, and professional development opportunities.
• Collaborate with colleagues in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to analyze student learning data, identify interventions for struggling learners, and provide enrichment for advanced students.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and up-to-date records in accordance with district policies and state regulations.
• Adhere to Iowa Teaching Standards, Iowa Code of Professional Conduct, Ethics, and all relevant district policies and performance evaluation criteria.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise students during all school-related activities and guide the work of teacher associates and volunteers as needed.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor of Arts or Science degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
• Job-related experience such as student teaching or practicum is required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• A valid teaching license issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, with K-6 Elementary Education endorsement or other content-specific endorsement(s).

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• Skills:
  • Ability to perform multiple tasks with precision and adapt to evolving classroom dynamics.
  • Effective communication skills for interacting with students, parents, and colleagues.
  • Proficiency in using formative and summative assessment data to inform instruction and make curriculum decisions.
  • Ability to utilize a variety of teaching methods, including technology and other instructional media, in a variety of learning environments.
• Knowledge:
  • Understanding of child development, including the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of elementary students.
  • Knowledge of best practices in education, including effective instructional techniques and classroom management strategies.
  • Familiarity with the Iowa Core and how it informs curriculum planning and assessment.
• Abilities:
  • Ability to plan, implement, and assess student learning in a structured and purposeful way.
  • Flexibility to adapt instruction based on student needs and the effectiveness of instructional strategies.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate records.
  • Capacity to collaborate effectively with peers, parents, and administrators in supporting student success.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The typical classroom environment requires occasional lifting, carrying, or moving materials, as well as frequent standing, walking, and sitting. The teacher must also be able to kneel, crouch, or balance as needed. The job is performed in a generally safe, hazard-free environment with minimal temperature fluctuations.

EXPERIENCE:

• Job-related experience such as student teaching or practicum is required.

EDUCATION:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a job-related area is required.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS:

• Current teacher certification through the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners with K-6 Elementary Education or relevant content-area endorsements.

CONTINUING EDUCATION/TRAINING:

• Ongoing professional development is required to maintain teaching certification and stay current with educational best practices.

CLEARANCES:

• Criminal fingerprint and background check required.

FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Grade: Certified Salary Schedule