Job Description

Title: English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher                                             Location:  Prairie Hills Junior High School

Employment Type:  Full Time                                                                 Work Days: 10-month position

FSLA:  Exempt                                                                                      Reports to: Building Principal                                                                

Job Summary:

The English Language Arts Teacher provides engaging, standards-based instruction in reading, writing, speaking, and listening to students in grades 6–8. The teacher promotes literacy development, critical thinking, and effective communication skills that prepare students for academic success and lifelong learning. The ELA teacher creates a positive, inclusive classroom environment that supports all learners while fostering creativity, collaboration, and a love for reading and writing.

Education, Certification, and Licensure:

·         Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement in English Language Arts for grades 5–8 or 9–12.

·         Bachelor’s Degree in Education, English, or a related field from an accredited institution.

·         Knowledge of Illinois Learning Standards for English Language Arts.

Experience:

·         Minimum of two (2) years of successful classroom teaching experience preferred.

·         Experience teaching junior high or middle school students is desirable.

·         Experience using data-driven instruction to improve literacy achievement.

·         Familiarity with reading intervention programs, writing workshops, and formative assessments.

·         Experience integrating technology and multimedia tools into instruction (e.g., Google Classroom, Nearpod, Turnitin, Newsela).

 Essential Duties and Specific Responsibilities:

·         Plan and implement rigorous lessons aligned with district curriculum and Illinois Learning Standards.

·         Teach reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through engaging, student-centered instruction.

·         Design lessons that integrate literature, nonfiction, poetry, and informational text to develop comprehension and analysis skills.

·         Support students in mastering grammar, vocabulary, and writing conventions.

·         Incorporate writing workshops, peer editing, and revision strategies to enhance writing quality.

·         Differentiate instruction to meet the n