Elementary Teacher For English Learners (El Teacher) '24-'25

Title: English Learner (EL) Teacher

Reports To: School Principal and Director of EL Programs

Position Purpose:

Educators of students who are English learners demonstrate a commitment to learning for all students by maintaining organized, child-centered classrooms; presenting content-rich, standards-based lessons and activities; by meeting individual needs through the use of assessments and data; and by using a variety of instructional strategies that are reflective of current best practices and research.

Qualifications:

The EL teacher will meet all qualifications and behavior standards as set by the Kansas Department of Education. In accordance with certification requirements and the performance expectations of Topeka Public Schools, all classroom teachers shall meet the following employment criteria:

• A valid Kansas Teacher’s Certificate with an ESOL endorsement or an ESOL Plan on File
• A completed credential file that meets the Topeka Public School standards
• Professional verification of successful classroom teacher performance and/or student teaching experience
• Evidence of the willingness and the ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by the State Board of Education
• Regular and predictable attendance is essential.
• Skills in communication, collaboration, adaptability, empathy, and patience.
• The ability to instruct and relate to non-English speaking students and families from varying backgrounds, languages, and academic skill levels.
• Academic preparation or teaching experience with English Language Learners.

Physical/Emotional Requirements: (The incumbent may be required to use the following skills and abilities during any part of the working day.)

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk, and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee is required to interact with staff and to meet demands from several people. The employee is responsible for the work output of others. On occasion, the employee may be required to work extended hours.

Performance Responsibilities:

• Prepare differentiated instructional materials for students who are English learners (EL).
• Assist the general education classroom teacher with individualizing instruction for EL students.
• Assess students’ English proficiency and determine if students qualify for EL services through use of state-approved assessments.
• Work with individual EL students and small groups.
• Provide a language acquisition program for each student.
• Communicate with parents regarding student’s progress, foster positive school/home relationships, and suggest home activities that will enhance the child’s success in school (interpreter/translator assistance will be provided when necessary).
• Help the classroom teacher/school locate translating and interpreting services.
• Communicate high expectations for all learners.
• Collaborate with EL coaches routinely.
• Incorporate use of appropriate technology.
• Implement the district-adopted curriculum effectively.
• Use a variety of research-based instructional practices and current resources that support instructional goals and student needs.
• Model and facilitates higher-order thinking, problem solving, creativity, and flexibility.
• Integrate a variety of informal and formal assessments into instruction routinely.
• Use a variety of data when making instructional decisions.
• Make students aware of assessment standards/learner expectations.
• Assist students in developing self-assessment skills.
• Maintain up-to-date records of student progress.
• Create a positive, inviting, and safe learning environment.
• Develop and adopt procedures and routines.
• Communicate realistic and consistent expectations for student behavior and apply appropriate consequences.
• Demonstrate conflict resolution skills.
• Model enthusiasm for learning and teaching
• Treat students, patrons, and colleagues with dignity and respect.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Use monitoring techniques to facilitate learning.
• Establish and maintain standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve effective participation in activities and learning experiences.
• Demonstrate knowledge of how subject matter/disciplines are integrated.
• Demonstrate how subject matter is organized.
• Communicate effectively and promote positive interpersonal relationships.
• Administer group standardized tests in accordance with district testing program.
• Administer, score, and clarify individual diagnostic tests and local and state assessments including the KELPA.
• Determine the potential, the instructional level, and the strengths and weaknesses of the student’s performance.
• Collect and submit all applicable data and paperwork needed for annual audit.
• Submit an end-of-year report and other information requested.
• Supervise pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned working day.
• Support the District’s educational mission for all students and implement all Board regulations and policies in a fair and equitable manner.
• Facilitate and/or help prepare professional devleopment for school, EL Department, or dsitrict.
• Perform other tasks and assume other responsibilities as assigned.

Terms of Employment:

Salary and work year to be determined in accordance with the Professional Agreement and approved by the Topeka Public Schools USD 501 Board of Education.

Evaluation:

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Topeka Public Schools Board of Education policies for professional certified employees.

Significant Associations:

The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor.