Pathways HS ELA Teacher

Pathways HS ELA Teacher

POSITION:  High School English Language Arts Teacher – Pathways Program

LOCATION: Kenowa Hills Pathways High School

START DATE/CALENDAR: 2026–27 School Year / Per KHEA Master Agreement

SALARY/BENEFITS: As outlined in the KHEA Master Agreement

SUMMARY

Kenowa Hills Pathways High School (KHPHS) provides a highly customized, personalized, and future-focused high school experience for every learner. The mission of KHPHS is to equip graduates with a high level of college and career readiness through individualized pathways, strong relationships, and meaningful learning experiences. Students at Pathways earn a Kenowa Hills diploma while engaging in flexible pathways designed to meet Michigan Merit Curriculum requirements.

Students at Pathways benefit from a flexible, relationship-centered environment designed to support re-engagement, credit attainment, and post-secondary success. Staff serve as facilitators of learning, helping students connect academic content to their future goals through the Michigan Merit Curriculum, Educational Development Plans (EDPs), and real-world experiences.

This position is ideal for educators who are adaptable, relationship-driven, and energized by helping students find success through non-traditional pathways. Pathways is not a traditional high school setting. We are seeking educators who are energized by building relationships, adapting instruction, and helping students find success through alternative pathways.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Valid Michigan teaching certificate with appropriate secondary ELA - BA endorsement
• Strong understanding of adolescent literacy and differentiated instruction
• Background in reading intervention strongly preferred
• Experience working with high school students preferred
• Demonstrated ability to build strong, positive relationships with students
• Experience in alternative education, credit recovery, or non-traditional settings preferred
• Knowledge of culturally responsive practices and student-centered instruction
• Commitment to Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) and relational practices
• Strong collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to adapt instruction to meet diverse academic and social-emotional needs
• Preference given to candidates with additional secondary endorsements (e.g., Science or other core content areas), as Pathways educators may support interdisciplinary instruction and flexible scheduling to meet student needs.
• BX / EX / DI (preferred)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Facilitate ELA instruction aligned to the Michigan Merit Curriculum in a flexible, student-centered learning environment
• Design and implement personalized learning experiences that support credit attainment and student growth
• Build strong relationships with students to support engagement, attendance, and academic progress
• Support students in connecting coursework to their Educational Development Plans (EDPs) and future goals
• Utilize a variety of instructional approaches, including blended and digital learning tools
• Provide ongoing feedback and monitor student progress toward graduation requirements
• Maintain high expectations while providing appropriate supports and interventions
• Collaborate with Pathways staff, counselors, and community partners to support student success
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and data-driven decision-making
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, grades, and student progress

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND EXPECTATIONS

This position is located within a non-traditional high school program that emphasizes flexibility, relationship-building, and individualized support.

Educators in this role must be comfortable:

• Working with students who may have experienced barriers in traditional settings
• Adapting instruction, pacing, and expectations to meet diverse needs
• Supporting student re-engagement and persistence toward graduation
• Maintaining consistency, structure, and high expectations in a flexible environment

The ability to remain patient, responsive, and solution-oriented while building trust with students is essential.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. This is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position requires the ability to:

• Stand, walk, and move throughout the classroom and school environment for extended periods
• Use hands and arms to operate technology, instructional materials, and classroom tools
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and families

The work environment may include:

• Frequent movement, transitions, and varying noise levels
• Working with students who may demonstrate behavioral or emotional dysregulation, including verbal outbursts or refusal
• This position may involve responding to student behaviors in real time, including supporting students in re-engaging with instruction and maintaining a safe learning environment.

The role requires:

• The ability to remain calm, patient, and responsive in dynamic situations
• The ability to implement de-escalation strategies and maintain a safe, structured learning environment
• The ability to support students with a range of academic, social, and behavioral needs

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Full-time position
• School year position per KHEA Master Agreement

NOTE TO APPLICANTS

Pursuant to PA 131, the selected candidate must receive clearance from the Michigan State Police Department prior to employment. The candidate is responsible for the background check fee.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

Kenowa Hills Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), age, disability, height, weight, marital status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status in its programs, services, activities, or employment opportunities.

Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to:

Director of Human Resources
Kenowa Hills Public Schools
2325 Four Mile Road NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
Phone: 616-784-2511

hr@khps.org

Applicants who require accommodation to participate in the application or interview process are encouraged to contact Human Resources.