English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher

Position Purpose

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher is responsible for facilitating the success and growth of English Language (EL) students in academic, social, and interpersonal skills. This is accomplished through the implementation of district-approved curriculum, assessment of student progress, and the creation of a safe, inclusive, and flexible learning environment. The ESL Teacher will address the diverse educational needs of students, ensuring they make progress toward English proficiency while meeting the Virginia’s academic content and 2020 WIDA standards.

Essential Functions

• Curriculum and Instruction: Develops, administers, and evaluates the ESL curriculum in alignment with the Virginia ESL standards and the 2020 WIDA Standards. Collaborates with classroom teachers to ensure instructional strategies support the language development of EL students. Develops lesson plans that integrate WIDA Standards, ensuring that activities and materials are tailored to meet the needs of EL students.
• Classroom Environment: Creates and promotes a classroom environment that is safe, inclusive, and conducive to language development. Supports individualized and small group instruction for EL students. Establishes and maintains classroom expectations aligned with school policies, ensuring a respectful, productive learning environment for all students.
• Assessment: Continuously assesses EL student progress, using formative and summative data to adjust instruction. Provides constructive feedback to students to encourage language development.
• Collaboration and Communication: Maintains effective communication with students, parents, colleagues, and administrators. Provides regular feedback on student progress and goals. Works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and staff to integrate WIDA Standards into school-wide practices and provides support to classroom teachers in meeting the needs of EL students.
• Professional Development: Participates in professional growth activities, staying current with developments in ESL education and educational best practices. Works with Central Office staff to plan and conduct professional development for regular education staff and EL tutors. Researches and reports on developments in the field of ESL education.
• Standardized Testing: Prepares EL students for standardized testing, ensuring that modifications and accommodations are made as required to meet the individual needs of the students.
• Record Keeping: Maintains accurate and up-to-date records for EL students, including academic achievement, attendance, and behavioral progress, in accordance with the law and school and district procedures.
• Extracurricular Responsibilities: Participates in school-wide events and extracurricular activities as needed. Serves as a member of Child Study, Eligibility, and IEP Committees, as needed.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the building administrator. Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
• Assists in the development and implementation of language development programs across grade levels.
• Coordinates with instructional support staff to ensure effective delivery of services to EL students.
• Travels to district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of current ESL methods, the Virginia ESL standards, WIDA Standards, and appropriate modifications for students with special needs.
• Ability to differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of EL students, utilize computer network systems and software applications, and manage classroom behavior.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, ability to collaborate with colleagues and parents, and proficiency with data analysis to inform instruction.
• Ability to engage in self-reflection and self-evaluation to support professional growth.

Educational Requirements and Certifications

• Certification/License: Must hold or be eligible for a valid Virginia Teaching license with an endorsement in English as a Second Language (ESL)
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in education or a related discipline. A Master’s Degree is preferred.
• Experience: Successful prior teaching experience is required.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Works in a standard classroom and school building environment.
• Must be able to lift and carry instructional materials and equipment, and manage classroom behavior effectively.

FLSA Status: Exempt