1ST GRADE TEACHER

BRANDYWINE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Engage. Educate. Empower.

Position Announcement

SUMMARY:
Merritt Elementary is seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as a 1st Grade Teacher. This full-time position offers the opportunity to inspire and educate young learners in a supportive and engaging environment. The ideal candidate will foster a love of learning, promote social and emotional development, and create a classroom atmosphere that encourages curiosity and collaboration.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:
Provides instructional and classroom support to students in a general education setting. Designs and delivers standards-based lessons that meet diverse learning needs. Creates a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment that promotes academic and social growth. Collaborates with families, colleagues, and administrators to support student success and school-wide goals. Monitors and assesses student progress, adjusts instruction as needed, and maintains accurate records. Engages in ongoing professional development and supports a collaborative, student-centered school culture through reflective practice, team collaboration, and active participation in school initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of teaching
• Considerable knowledge of techniques applicable in conducting classes for children and adults
• Considerable knowledge of adapting teaching methods and materials to meet the interests and learning styles of students
• Considerable knowledge of texts, materials, supplies and equipment
• Ability to formulate courses of study and select instruction aids
• Ability to prepare lesson plans, conduct classes, construct tests, and interpret test results
• Ability to evaluate the ability, progress, behavior, and attitudes of students
• Ability to maintain discipline
• Ability to maintain the interest and cooperation of the maladjusted
• Ability to maintain records, and prepare reports and correspondence related to the work
• Ability to establish and communicate clear objectives for lessons, units and projects
• Ability to maintain favorable public relations
• Encourage students to explore learning opportunities and career paths
• Maintain positive relationships with students, parents, coworkers and supervisors
• Create a safe, respectful and inclusive classroom environment
• Knowledge of data-driven instruction and ability to interpret assessment data to inform teaching
• Ability to integrate educational technology tools and platforms to support learning
• Familiarity with culturally responsive pedagogy and trauma-informed teaching practices
• Ability to differentiate instruction for students with diverse learning needs, including ELLs and students with IEPs/504s

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and DUTIES Additional duties may be assigned.

• Teaches elementary school courses
• Plans education schedules for students in accordance with their previous education, abilities, interests and needs
• Counsels students on general behavior, citizenship, personal problems and vocational interests
• Prepares lesson plans, determines methods of presentation, and prepares tests
• Marks tests and records grades
• Directs helpers and tutors in instruction methods and the preparation of tools
• Oversees study groups
• Participates in staff discussion on individual cases
• Supervises students assigned by colleges for practice teaching
• Maintains records and prepares reports and correspondence related to the work
• Performs related work as assigned
• Participates in grade-level/content team meetings and collaborative planning sessions
• Uses data to plan, differentiate, and adjust instruction to meet the needs of all learners
• Incorporates technology to enhance instruction and foster student engagement
• Maintains consistent communication with families regarding academic progress, behavior, and classroom activities
  Professional Competencies:
• Cultural Competency: Fosters an inclusive classroom environment respectful of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and identities
• Growth Mindset: Welcomes feedback and seeks continuous improvement through collaboration and reflection
• Classroom Management: Uses proactive strategies to support positive behavior and build student relationships
• Communication: Builds strong relationships with students and families through consistent, respectful communication

REQUIRED SKILLS and ABILITIES
Education

• Bachelor's degree in education or related field
• Must hold a valid Michigan Elementary Teaching Certificate with a ZG endorsement (K–5 All Subjects) or an equivalent Elementary Education endorsement
• Experience with trauma-informed teaching practices and/or PBIS
• Familiarity with MTSS, RTI, or other tiered intervention frameworks
• LETRS training preferred or willingness to enroll

WORK ENVIRONMENT and CONDITIONS

• The employee shall remain free of any alcohol or nonprescribed controlled substance in the workplace throughout their employment
• May involve lifting, de-escalation, or personal care depending on student needs
• Involves collaboration with staff, families, and outside agencies
• Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions
• Complies with all federal, state, and district policies, including student data privacy (FERPA) and mandated reporting requirements
  What we offer:
• Competitive wages (Minimum starting salary $44,000 BA and $46,500 MA. Salary commensurate with experience according to the BDEA salary schedule. Full benefit package offered)
• Sate of Michigan Retirement Benefits
• District-Supported Professional Development
• District paid Life Insurance, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Accidental Death Coverage
• BCBS Health Plan (Cash In Lieu of Health Benefit an option)
• Rollover sick days from previous school district

Notice of Non-Discrimination Statement
Brandywine Community Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, height, weight, marital status, political belief, genetic information, disability or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities. Title IX: Elise Sorensen, Director of Adult, Alternative and Special Education. Section 504 Coordinator: Matt Severin, Principal. Civil Rights Coordinator: Travis Walker, Superintendent. For procedural information, please review Brandywine Community Schools Board policies