Middle School/Upper School English Teacher

Middle School/Upper School English Teacher Position (Grades 7–9)

Position Summary

The Middle School/Upper School English Teacher provides instruction in grammar, composition, and literature within a Classical Christian educational framework. The teacher cultivates a love for language and literature while guiding students in the development of strong writing, critical thinking, and communication skills. Instruction should emphasize traditional grammar, classical and historically significant literature, and structured writing.

The teacher is expected to maintain a well-ordered classroom, demonstrate strong organization, and model Christian character while encouraging students to pursue truth, goodness, and beauty through the study of language and literature.

Primary Responsibilities

Instruction in Grammar, Literature, and Composition

• Teach traditional grammar, sentence structure, vocabulary, and mechanics of the English language.
• Provide instruction in composition, paragraph development, essays, and structured writing.
• Guide students in reading and analyzing classical and historically significant literature.
• Lead thoughtful discussions that develop critical thinking and literary understanding.
• Instruct students in the skills of editing, revising, and refining written work.

Classical Education Approach

• Support the classical model of education, particularly the development of language and analytical skills appropriate for upper grammar and logic-stage students.
• Encourage students to think deeply about literature in light of truth, virtue, and Christian worldview.
• Promote careful reading, thoughtful discussion, and disciplined study habits.

Lesson Planning and Organization

• Prepare organized lesson plans that include:
  • Clear instructional objectives
  • Appropriate literary texts and resources
  • Engaging instructional activities
  • Meaningful assessments of student understanding
• Demonstrate strong organizational skills in planning, instruction, and grading.

Classroom Management

• Maintain excellent classroom management and orderly classroom routines.
• Establish clear expectations for student behavior, responsibility, and respect.
• Foster an environment conducive to focused learning, discipline, and academic growth.

Assessment and Student Progress

• Evaluate student work through essays, written assignments, quizzes, tests, and class discussions.
• Provide clear and constructive feedback to help students improve their writing and comprehension.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of grades and student progress.

Professional Responsibilities

• Communicate effectively with parents, colleagues, and administration.
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school events.
• Uphold the mission, values, and policies of the school.
• Model Christian character, integrity, and professionalism.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Education, or a related field.
• Teaching experience preferred, particularly in middle school or junior high grades.
• Strong background in traditional grammar, literature, and composition.
• Ability to teach within a Classical Christian educational philosophy.
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Skills and Strengths

• Knowledge of classical and historically significant literature
• Strong foundation in traditional English grammar
• Ability to teach clear, structured writing
• Excellent classroom management
• Strong organizational and planning abilities
• Ability to cultivate thoughtful discussion and critical thinking
• Commitment to Christian character formation and discipleship

First Baptist Powell provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment based on qualifications, character, spiritual fitness, abilities, merit, and furtherance of our religious goals and curricula. Subject to our rights as a religious institution, First Baptist Powell abides by all state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination against applicants and/or employees on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, age, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), or other legally protected class categories.