Kindergarten Teacher (Certified or Permit Eligible)

Key Responsibilities – Kindergarten Classroom Teacher

Southern Avenue Charter School

1. Foundational Instruction and Early Learning Development

• Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons across core areas: early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
• Build foundational skills in phonemic awareness, letter recognition, number sense, counting, and problem-solving.
• Incorporate songs, movement, storytelling, play-based learning, and hands-on activities to support academic and developmental goals.

2. Literacy and Language Development

• Use phonics-based instruction to teach letter-sound relationships, blending, segmenting, and sight word recognition.
• Support early reading skills through guided reading, shared reading, and read-alouds using diverse and engaging texts.
• Promote language development through interactive discussions, vocabulary-building activities, and storytelling.

3. Math and Cognitive Skill Building

• Introduce key math concepts such as counting, number sense, shapes, patterns, measurement, and basic addition and subtraction.
• Use manipulatives, visuals, games, and songs to make math concrete, engaging, and accessible for all learners.
• Foster problem-solving and mathematical reasoning through structured play and hands-on exploration.

4. Social-Emotional Learning and Behavior Management

• Teach and model social-emotional skills such as sharing, turn-taking, empathy, self-regulation, and managing emotions.
• Establish and maintain clear classroom routines, expectations, and transitions using visual schedules and consistent practices.
• Use positive behavior supports and proactive strategies to create a nurturing, safe, and respectful classroom environment.

5. Individualized Support and Differentiation

• Observe and assess students’ developmental progress and adapt instruction to meet a wide range of readiness levels and learning styles.
• Differentiate lessons for students with diverse needs, including English Language Learners, students with IEPs, and advanced learners.
• Collaborate with special education staff, interventionists, and support personnel to ensure inclusive, supportive learning for all.

6. Assessment and Progress Monitoring

• Conduct ongoing observations, checklists, work samples, and early learning assessments to track growth and guide instruction.
• Use data to identify areas of need, plan small-group interventions, and report progress toward kindergarten readiness goals.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records in alignment with school and district expectations.

7. Family Engagement and Communication

• Establish strong relationships with families as partners in their child’s education through frequent communication and support.
• Conduct conferences, share progress updates, and provide strategies for learning at home.
• Encourage family involvement through classroom events, newsletters, take-home activities, and volunteer opportunities.

8. Classroom Environment and Culture

• Create a warm, inviting, and literacy-rich classroom that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.
• Organize centers and activities that promote independence, collaboration, and exploration.
• Encourage a sense of community, belonging, and responsibility among students.

9. Professional Collaboration and Growth

• Work collaboratively with kindergarten team members and specialists to align instruction, share strategies, and support student learning.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, coaching, and school-wide initiatives to continually improve practice.
• Contribute positively to school culture by embodying Southern Avenue Charter School’s mission and values.

Qualifications:

• Valid Tennessee teaching license with appropriate endorsement in Early Childhood or Elementary Education (e.g., PreK–3, K–5, or K–6).
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Completion of a state-approved educator preparation program (EPP).
• Successful completion of required Praxis exams for licensure.
• Strong knowledge of child development, literacy instruction, and differentiated teaching strategies.
• Excellent classroom management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with standards-based instruction, data-driven teaching, and educational technology preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Classroom-based environment with occasional duties outside (e.g., recess, bus duty).
• Regular school hours with occasional after-school meetings or events.