Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher (Grades 6–8)

Position Title: Middle School English Language Arts Teacher (Grades 6–8) Location: Woodland School Certification Required: Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate with appropriate ELA endorsement Reports To: Building Principal Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

Woodland School is seeking a dedicated, student-centered, and highly qualified Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher to serve students in grades 6–8. The successful candidate will provide engaging, standards-based instruction aligned with the Michigan Academic Standards for English Language Arts, while preparing students for success on the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP), PSAT 8/9, and future college and career readiness assessments.

The ideal candidate will foster a positive classroom environment, inspire a love of reading and writing, and use data-driven instructional practices to support the academic growth of all learners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Curriculum

• Develop and implement rigorous ELA instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards.
• Teach reading, writing, speaking, listening, language, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Integrate fiction, nonfiction, informational texts, and digital literacy into daily instruction.
• Design lessons that promote analytical reading, evidence-based writing, and effective communication.

Assessment and Student Achievement

• Prepare students for M-STEP and PSAT 8/9 assessments through targeted instruction and skill development.
• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress and guide instruction.
• Analyze student performance data to identify learning gaps and implement interventions.
• Provide timely and constructive feedback to students and families.
• Maintain accurate records of student achievement and progress.

Classroom Environment

• Establish and maintain a safe, respectful, and engaging learning environment.
• Implement effective classroom management practices that promote student responsibility and academic success.
• Foster a growth mindset and encourage students to take ownership of their learning.

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with colleagues to develop curriculum, analyze data, and improve instructional practices.
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), staff meetings, and professional development activities.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress and classroom expectations.
• Work collaboratively with the special education team and support personnel to meet student needs.

Professional Responsibilities

• Adhere to all school policies, procedures, and professional standards.
• Maintain certification requirements and pursue ongoing professional growth.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the principal.

Qualifications

Required

• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate with appropriate English Language Arts endorsement.
• Bachelor's degree in Education, English, Language Arts, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Michigan Academic Standards and assessment practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

Preferred

• Experience teaching middle school ELA (Grades 6–8).
• Experience preparing students for M-STEP, PSAT 8/9, or similar standardized assessments.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction, MTSS, and data-driven decision making.
• Experience integrating educational technology into instruction.

Desired Characteristics

The ideal candidate:

• Demonstrates a passion for literacy and student achievement.
• Creates engaging and relevant learning experiences.
• Maintains high expectations for all students.
• Uses assessment data to improve instruction and student outcomes.
• Values collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Builds meaningful relationships that support students' academic and social-emotional growth.

Salary and Benefits

Salary and benefits will be determined according to Woodland School policies and applicable agreements.

Woodland School is an equal opportunity employer and encourages qualified candidates to apply.