HS World Language Department Chair

World Languages Department Chair- Scarsdale High School

Scarsdale High School seeks a talented teacher leader to fill the position of World Languages Department Chair. Success in this role requires a combination of leadership talent, effective management, curricular and instructional vision, and excellence in teaching. Speakers of Spanish and French with native proficiency are strongly encouraged to apply, and leadership experience is preferred.

Scarsdale Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described.

Department Chair Description

Applicants should be able to demonstrate success in:

• facilitating improvements in instruction and student learning;
• understanding adults as learners and effectively navigating change processes;
• using formal and informal assessments to inform decisions;
• modeling effective skills in listening, presenting ideas, and leading discussions; and
• advocating for the program in order to advance shared goals and professional learning.
  
  

Key responsibilities of the successful candidate will include: teaching three (3) high-school world-language sections; supervising a high-school department of 19 teachers and four languages; serving as a member of the Principal’s cabinet in a shared decision-making structure; and collaborating with other leaders to carry out the Scarsdale Strategic Plan of Learning, Living and Leading.

Teaching Description

Essential Functions

Under the general supervision of the High School Principal and the World Language Department Chair, to develop students' knowledge, skills and abilities in comprehending, speaking, reading and writing Spanish, and to develop an understanding and appreciation of the native culture of the countries where the language is the primary means of communication.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of the identified language, in terms of grammar, word usage, word denotations and connotations, and literature.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Develops and administers foreign language education curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Teaches knowledge and skills in a language other than English, including comprehension, grammar and syntax, sentence and paragraph structure, composition, vocabulary and proper word usage, colloquialisms, communication and translation of literature.
• Develops student understanding and appreciation of the cultures and mores of countries where the language is the predominant or a major means of communication.
• Works with students and others to prepare materials for inclusion in literary publications, contests, etc.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
• Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
  
  

Experience

Three years of successful prior foreign language teaching experience preferred.

Education And Qualifications

• Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Masters Degree in related area preferred.
• Certification/License: NYS Initial or Professional Spanish (7-12); Additional language certifications preferred
• NY State Certification as a School Building Leader (or SAS) preferred.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
  
  

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

FLSA Status: Exempt