ELA Teacher (Middle School)

Description 

• A Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher is responsible for delivering rigorous, standards-based instruction aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in English Language
• Arts as established by the Minnesota Department of Education. Instruction is designed to prepare
• students for success on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) by developing strong
• reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language skills. The role emphasizes critical thinking,
• text analysis, and effective communication.

• Plan and deliver instruction aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in English Language Arts, ensuring students are prepared for MCA reading and writing assessments
• Teach reading comprehension strategies using a variety of literary and informational texts
• Develop students’ writing skills across multiple genres, including narrative, informational, and argumentative writing
• Provide explicit instruction in grammar, vocabulary, and language conventions
• Facilitate discussions that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and respectful exchange of ideas
• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction
• Analyze student data to support growth toward grade-level proficiency
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including multilingual learners and students receiving special education services
• Create a classroom environment that supports literacy development and a love of reading

Instructional Expectations

• Emphasize close reading, text-based analysis, and evidence-based writing
• Support students in citing textual evidence to support claims and interpretations
• Integrate speaking and listening opportunities through structured discussions and presentations
• Incorporate diverse and culturally relevant texts that reflect students’ identities and experiences
• Build students’ academic vocabulary and language skills across content areas
• Integrate technology to enhance reading, writing, and research skills

Assessment and MCA Alignment

• Design and implement assessments aligned to MCA expectations and grade-level standards
• Use benchmark and common assessments to track student progress
• Provide targeted interventions and enrichment based on assessment data
• Support students in developing strategies for responding to MCA-style questions and tasks

Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure alignment of curriculum and instructional practices
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities focused on literacy development and data analysis
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and academic goals
• Engage in ongoing professional development related to literacy instruction, standards alignment, and assessment practices

• Bachelor’s degree in English, education, or a related field
• Valid Minnesota teaching license in English Language Arts or appropriate licensure area
• Knowledge of the Minnesota Academic Standards in English Language Arts and MCA assessment expectations
• Strong classroom management and instructional skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching middle school ELA in a standards-based environment
• Familiarity with MCA reading and writing assessments
• Experience supporting multilingual learners and diverse student populations
• Knowledge of best practices in literacy instruction, including differentiated and culturally responsive teaching
• This position requires a commitment to ensuring all students achieve proficiency in literacy through standards-aligned instruction, data-driven decision-making, and preparation for success on state assessments.