High School Alternative Education (Science and Social Studies)

High School Alternative Education Teacher (Science & Social Studies)
Reports To: Building Principal / Alternative Learning Environment (ALE) Director

Position Summary

The High School Alternative Education Teacher (Science & Social Studies) provides targeted instruction and behavioral support to students in an Alternative Learning Environment (ALE). This position focuses on delivering standards-aligned science and social studies instruction while addressing the academic, social, and behavioral needs of students who require a nontraditional educational setting. The teacher fosters a structured, supportive, and relationship-driven classroom environment designed to promote student success, credit attainment, and graduation readiness.

Qualifications

• Valid Arkansas Teaching License with certification in Science, Social Studies, or Secondary Education
• Arkansas ALE endorsement or willingness to obtain within required timeframe
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field
• Knowledge of Arkansas Academic Standards for high school Science and Social Studies
• Experience working with at-risk or behaviorally challenged students preferred
• Training or experience in trauma-informed practices, behavior intervention, and de-escalation strategies
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver differentiated, standards-aligned instruction in high school science and social studies courses
• Support credit recovery and alternative pathways to graduation
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans based on student needs and ALE requirements
• Use data to monitor student progress toward course completion and graduation goals
• Establish and maintain a structured, consistent, and supportive classroom environment
• Implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and other behavior strategies
• Build strong relationships with students to increase engagement, accountability, and persistence
• Collaborate with counselors, administrators, and staff to support graduation plans and transitions
• Maintain compliance with Arkansas ALE program requirements, including documentation and reporting
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding academic progress and behavior
• Supervise students and ensure a safe, supportive learning environment

Instructional Expectations

• Align instruction with Arkansas Academic Standards for high school Science and Social Studies
• Provide flexible pacing, credit recovery options, and individualized supports
• Incorporate project-based, real-world, and career-connected learning experiences
• Emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and civic understanding
• Integrate literacy strategies across content areas (reading, writing, and discussion)
• Embed social-emotional learning and self-regulation strategies into instruction

Behavioral and Program Expectations

• Follow all Arkansas ALE guidelines and district policies
• Implement and support Student ActionPlans (SAPs) and behavior intervention plans
• Use trauma-informed and restorative practices to address student behavior
• Maintain accurate documentation of student progress, attendance, and interventions
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case reviews
• Support student re-entry to traditional settings or transition to postsecondary pathways when appropriate

Working Conditions

• Alternative education classroom setting with students requiring additional behavioral and academic support
• Frequent standing, walking, and active supervision
• May involve de-escalation and crisis response
• Occasional extended hours for meetings, parent conferences, or professional development

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with district policy and the Arkansas Teacher Excellence and Support System (TESS).

Terms of Employment

• Contract length: 190 days
• Salary: Based on district salary schedule and experience
• Benefits: As provided by district policy

Equal Opportunity Statement

Mena School District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or any other protected status.