Dual Language/Bilingual Language Arts Teacher ? Landon Middle School

Reports To:  Building Principal

Position Purpose:    

The Dual Language Program integrates native English speaking students with native Spanish speaking students for academic instruction- which is presented in both languages.  Social and academic learning occurs in an environment that values the language and culture of all students and sets high standards to ultimately achieve academic success in Spanish and English.

Classrooms are composed of approximately 50 percent native English speakers and 50 percent native Spanish speakers.  The 50/50 ratio enables all students to be language models and second language learners. 

The language used for instruction is also broken down by a 50/50 ratio.  Fifty percent of classroom instruction is provided in English- and fifty percent of classroom instruction is provided in Spanish.  Each teacher speaks only in the designated language and communicates using a range of engaging strategies to promote student understanding and language development.  All students are taught to read- write- listen- and speak in two languages.

The dual language model creates an additive bilingual environment for both groups of students because it allows them to maintain and develop their first language while simultaneously acquiring a second language.

Topeka Public Schools dual language program language arts educators demonstrate a commitment to learning for all students by maintaining organized- student-centered classrooms- by presenting content-rich and standards-based lessons and activities- by meeting individual needs through the use of assessments and data- and by using a variety of instructional strategies that are reflective of current best practices and research

Qualifications:                 

The classroom teacher will meet all qualifications and behavior standards as set by the Kansas Department of Education.  In accordance with certification requirements and the performance expectations of Topeka Public Schools- all classroom teachers shall meet the following employment criteria:

• Fluent in Spanish and English- both orally and in writing- as demonstrated through a district proficiency assessment.
• The minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.
• A valid Kansas Teacher’s Certificate (applicable level-area endorsements preferred).
• A completed credential file that meets the Topeka Public School standards.
• Professional verification of successful classroom teacher performance and/or student teaching experience.
• Evidence of the willingness and the ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by the State Board of Education.
• Regular and predictable attendance is essential.
• PREFERRED: ESOL Endorsement/Kansas

Physical/Emotional Requirements:  (The incumbent may be required to use the below requirements during any part of the working day.)

While performing the duties of this job- the employee is frequently required to walk- sit- talk- and hear.  The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision- distance vision- depth perception- and the ability to adjust focus.  The employee is required to interact with staff and to meet demands from several people.  The employee is responsible for the work output of others.  On occasion- the employee may be required to work extended hours.

Performance Responsibilities:    

• Responsible for planning and conducting language arts lessons in Spanish and English in age-appropriate ways.
• Adapt language arts material and methods that guide and challenge pupils
• Effectively implement the district-adopted curriculum
• Develop standards for critical analysis through group discussions
• Evaluate each pupil’s progress in language arts skills (listening- speaking- reading- and writing)
• Work with students and other classroom teachers in such activities as preparing material for the school newspaper or yearbook or coordinating entries in essay contests
• Modify teaching to meet individual student needs
• Communicate high expectations to all learners
• Seek- listen- and respond appropriately to suggestions- requests- and concerns
• Incorporate use of appropriate technology
• Effectively implement the district-adopted curriculum
• Develop lesson plans by incorporating effective lesson design
• Use a variety of research-based instructional practices and current resources that support instructional goals and student needs
• Model and facilitate higher-order thinking- problem solving- creativity- and flexibility
• Routinely integrate a variety of informal and formal assessments into instruction
• Use a variety of data in making instructional decisions
• Make students aware of assessment standards/learner expectations
• Assist students in developing self-assessment skills
• Maintain up-to-date records of student progress
• Create a positive- inviting- and safe learning environment
• Develop- model- and practice procedures and routines
• Communicate realistic and consistent expectations for student behavior and apply appropriate consequences
• Demonstrate conflict resolution skills
• Model enthusiasm for learning and teaching
• Treat students- patrons- and colleagues with dignity and respect
• Maintain confidentiality
• Use monitoring techniques to facilitate learning
• Demonstrate knowledge of how subject matter/disciplines are integrated
• Demonstrate how subject matter is organized
• Communicate effectively and promote positive interpersonal relationships
• Establish and maintain standards of pupil behavior to provide an orderly- productive environment
• Supervise pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned working day
• Oversee assigned budgets
• Support the District’s educational mission for all students and implement all Board regulations and policies in a fair and equitable manner
• Perform other tasks and assume other responsibilities as the superintendent or designee may assign

Terms of Employment: 

9 months; salary and work year to be determined by the Board of Education.

Evaluation:

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the board policy on evaluation of Support Service Personnel

Significant associations:

The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor

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