Middle School Alternative Education ELA and Social Studies

Job Title: Middle School Alternative Education Teacher (English Language Arts & Social Studies)
Reports To: Building Principal / Alternative Learning Environment (ALE) Coordinator

Position Summary

The Middle School Alternative Education Teacher (ELA & Social Studies) provides targeted, standards-aligned instruction in literacy and social studies within an Alternative Learning Environment (ALE). This role focuses on supporting students with academic gaps, behavioral needs, and disengagement from traditional school settings. The teacher creates a structured, relationship-driven classroom that promotes literacy development, critical thinking, and student re-engagement.

Qualifications

• Valid Arkansas Teaching License with certification in English Language Arts, Social Studies, or Middle Childhood 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 ELA and Social Studies
• Strong understanding of adolescent literacy and writing instruction
• Experience working with at-risk or behaviorally challenged students preferred
• Training or experience in trauma-informed practices, behavior intervention, and de-escalation strategies

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver differentiated instruction in reading, writing, and social studies content aligned to Arkansas Academic Standards
• Provide explicit literacy instruction, including comprehension, vocabulary, and writing across content areas
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans (SLPs) based on student needs and ALE requirements
• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor progress and adjust instruction
• Establish and maintain a structured, consistent classroom environment that supports student success
• Implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and other behavior management strategies
• Build strong relationships with students to increase engagement, accountability, and attendance
• Integrate reading and writing into social studies instruction to strengthen content understanding
• Collaborate with staff, including special education, counselors, and administrators, to support student growth
• Maintain accurate documentation for ALE compliance, including academic and behavioral progress
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress

Instructional Expectations

• Align instruction with Arkansas Academic Standards for ELA and Social Studies
• Emphasize reading of complex texts, writing for multiple purposes, and evidence-based discussion
• Incorporate primary and secondary sources in social studies instruction
• Use scaffolding and differentiation to address significant skill gaps
• Integrate academic vocabulary and language development across content areas
• Provide frequent, actionable feedback to improve student writing

Behavioral and Program Expectations

• Follow all Arkansas ALE guidelines and district policies
• Develop, implement, and monitor Student Learning Plans (SLPs) and behavior plans
• Utilize trauma-informed and restorative practices to support student behavior
• Maintain documentation required for ALE funding and compliance
• Participate in team meetings, case reviews, and professional development

Working Conditions

• Alternative education classroom serving students with academic and behavioral needs
• Frequent standing, walking, and active supervision
• May involve behavior de-escalation and crisis response
• Occasional extended hours for meetings, conferences, or training

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.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position.