Junior High ELAR Teacher

(Grades 6–8)

Primary Purpose

Provide students in grades 6–8 with appropriate learning activities and experiences in English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Enable students to develop literacy skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking aligned to TEKS.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university

• Valid Texas teaching certificate with ELAR certification for appropriate grade level (e.g., 4–8 ELAR, 7–12 ELAR)

• ESL certification (preferred or required depending on district)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of TEKS and curriculum alignment

• Understanding of adolescent literacy development

• Strong classroom management skills

• Ability to analyze student data and adjust instruction

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills

• Familiarity with technology integration in instruction

Experience:

• Student teaching or approved internship

• Prior middle school teaching experience preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Instructional Strategies

• Develop and implement lesson plans aligned to TEKS and district curriculum.

• Deliver engaging instruction in reading comprehension, vocabulary development, grammar, composition, and literary analysis.

• Teach writing using the full writing process (prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, publishing).

• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs, including special education and emergent bilingual students.

• Prepare students for state assessments (e.g., STAAR Reading and Writing as applicable).

Classroom Management and Organization

• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for adolescent development.

• Establish clear expectations for behavior and academic performance.

• Manage student behavior in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and district policies.

Assessment

• Design and administer formative and summative assessments.

• Use assessment data to guide instructional decisions.

• Maintain accurate records of student progress and attendance.

Communication

• Communicate regularly with parents regarding student progress and concerns.

• Participate in parent conferences as needed.

• Collaborate with colleagues in PLCs to improve instructional practices.

Professional Growth

• Participate in staff development aligned with district and campus goals.

• Maintain professional competence through ongoing learning.

• Comply with district policies and state regulations.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise students in classroom, hallways, and assigned duty areas.

• May sponsor student organizations or extracurricular activities as assigned.

Working Conditions

Mental Demands:

• Maintain emotional control under stress

• Work prolonged or irregular hours

Physical Demands/Environment:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting

• Work inside classroom environment