Esl Teacher/Ged Program Developer (40 Hours)

This position is responsible for teaching adult learners – both non-native and native English speakers – Adult Basic Education (ABE) topics, teaching ESL class(es) and assisting in developing Literacy Minnesota’s Reading and Math Fundamentals (Pre-GED) program.

This position collaborates with other ABE/ESL Teachers and Open Door Campus Coordinators. This position may also support volunteers in a whole class, small group, and one-to-one tutoring setting.

Work environment consists of a typical office and classroom environment. Time spent on the computer is approximately 15% time spent on phone is approximately 5%. Regular local travel will be required within the metro Twin Cities to our Open Door Campuses, Literacy Minnesota main office, and satellite class locations. This role may be required to work until at least 8pm, as part of our evening class offerings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Compensation: starting pay rate between $41,889 and $52,361 per year (commensurate with experience). This position is benefits-eligible and will accrue Paid Time Off (PTO) and be eligible for paid holidays.

Key Responsibilities of the ESL Teacher and Reading and Math Fundamentals Program Manager:

Program Development

• Conduct needs assessment in with local nonprofits, churches, other ABE providers, and other community organization to identify needs for pre-GED programming, including needs around class times and format, as well as class subjects
• Research reading and math fundamentals best practices and compile library of available instructional resources
• Make recommendations to management team about structure for programming
• Develop intake process for incoming students
• Develop policies and procedures around reading and math fundamentals programming
• Other development tasks as needed and assigned

Educational Innovation, Evaluation and Pedagogical Practice

• Develop daily lesson plans and provide high quality ABE/ESL instruction for Adult learners.
• Regularly gather information about students’ goals, challenges, and program satisfaction and make instructional or programmatic adjustments.
• Assess student learning through a variety of methods, including but not limited to, mandated standardized assessments (CASAS, TABE, etc.), teacher-created informal assessments, observations, portfolios, checklists, and in-class projects.
• Plan and implement a strategy for providing effective digital literacy instruction for adult students.
• Structure class to utilize volunteers and resources to provide optimal learning experience for adult learners.
• Provide curricular feedback on materials created and published by Literacy Minnesota.
• Remain up-to-date on pedological research within the Adult Basic Education field though professional development, conference attendance, or coaching with supervisor.

Collaborative Leadership Practice

• Work closely with Open Door staff on site and across the agency to coordinate assessment and instruction and to share relevant resources and expertise.
• Attend monthly Learning Center meetings, staff meetings and other meetings as requested.

Program Management and Oversight

• Adhere to protocols for administering, scoring, and reporting standardized assessments.
• Ensure classroom instruction meets all Adult Basic Education requirements, including state and federal content standards.
• Work closely with the Learning Center Coordinator to make sure each student completes the intake process and has a learning plan appropriate to their goals and skills.
• Maintain student files, document student achievements, record student attendance hours in collaboration with the Learning Center Coordinator.

Volunteer Coordination & Supervisory Oversight -

• Observe, coach, and supervise classroom volunteers using a variety of methods including, but not limited to, modeling effective instruction, discussing and reflecting on their experience, and recommending additional trainings and resources.
• Communicate volunteer needs and coordinate scheduling with Learning Center Coordinator.
• Track volunteer hours in internal database.

Other

• Assist with special projects as needed and as time allows.
• Support organizational DEI goals by fostering an inclusive environment, and actively participating in and achieving organizational and personal DEI goals.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors in education or related field, or equivalent experience in working with Adult Basic Education.
• Comprehensive understanding of ESL/ABE and adult learning; through knowledge of effective teaching methods of adult learners.
• Able to work independently in a collaborative, fast-paced, adaptable environment.

• Ability to relate effectively with people of other cultures and varying educational backgrounds; ability to respond effectively to individual and cultural needs, as well as learning styles.
• Detail-oriented, and skilled in gathering, organizing, and maintaining a wide variety of data.
• Able to effectively use computers and related technology, or ability to learn.
• Demonstrated DEI-focused work style, including engagement in organizational and personal DEI goals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and experience communicating with a wide variety of populations.
• Possesses a growth mindset, and ability to modify instruction based on coaching and feedback from peers and supervisor.
• Ability to work hours required by specific position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters in ESL, TESOL, Adult Basic Education or related field preferred with a minimum 1 year experience teaching.
• ESL certification or ABE licensure strongly preferred.
• Skilled in volunteer mentoring and supervision.
• Previous experience in a non-profit or educational institution focused on Adult Education, refugee services, or immigrant needs.
• Previous experience in program development or management.
• Multilingual, or experience learning English as a second language.

Literacy Minnesota fosters an organizational culture that is welcoming and inclusive to all. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, indigenous peoples, immigrants and refugees, LBGTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities.