1st Grade Teacher

As a 1st Grade Teacher at the Lansing School District, your primary responsibilities will include delivering innovative and engaging lessons in subjects like math, literacy, social studies, and science. You’ll create a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment while building strong relationships with your students and their families. Additionally, you'll analyze data to tailor instruction to meet individual student needs and participate in professional development to continuously enhance your teaching skills.

To apply for the 1st Grade Teacher position at Lansing School District, you will need a Bachelor’s degree in education, along with prior experience working with elementary students. A valid Michigan teaching certificate with an elementary endorsement is preferred but not required. We're particularly interested in candidates who align with our mission and values and have experience teaching in urban settings.

Lansing School District is committed to the professional growth of its educators. We offer various opportunities for professional development, including workshops, training in specific instructional methodologies, and mentorship programs. Teachers are encouraged to seek feedback from school leaders and peers to enhance their teaching practices and relationships with students.

The salary range for a 1st Grade Teacher at Lansing School District varies depending on experience and qualifications, starting from $46,942 and going up to $95,000 per year. We honor years of experience and additional degrees beyond a Bachelor's, making your compensation reflective of your expertise and commitment to education.

Lansing School District places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. We provide equal opportunities to all candidates and value diverse perspectives among our staff and students. This commitment is reflected in our hiring practices and our educational programs, which are designed to create a rich, supportive environment for everyone involved.

To plan and deliver effective lessons for 1st graders, I focus on engaging, diverse, and interactive teaching strategies that cater to different learning styles. I incorporate technology, hands-on activities, and collaborative projects to make learning fun and relatable while ensuring I align with the curriculum standards.

Differentiating instruction involves understanding each student's unique needs. For example, in a literacy lesson, I may provide advanced readers with challenging texts while giving struggling readers simpler materials with visual aids. I also work in small groups to provide targeted support, ensuring every child progresses.

Classroom management begins with setting clear expectations and building a positive classroom culture. I establish rules collaboratively with my students and consistently reinforce positive behavior. When issues arise, I focus on proactive strategies and restorative practices that encourage students to reflect on their actions.

Building relationships starts with genuine communication and showing interest in each child's life. I maintain open and regular communication with parents through newsletters and conferences. By holding family events and being accessible, I ensure parents feel involved in their child's education, fostering a partnership.

I use a variety of assessment strategies, including formative assessments like quizzes and projects, along with summative assessments to gauge overall understanding. Observations and student reflections also help me understand their learning journey, allowing me to adjust my instruction accordingly.

Incorporating technology involves using educational software, interactive lessons, and online resources that enhance engagement. For instance, using tablets during literacy centers allows students to practice skills at their own pace while enjoying interactive content that reinforces learning objectives.

I create a safe and inclusive classroom by promoting respect and empathy among students. I celebrate diversity by incorporating multicultural content in my lessons and addressing biases openly. Regular check-ins with students ensure they feel valued and heard, strengthening our classroom community.

I view feedback as an essential tool for growth. I actively seek feedback from colleagues and students, reflecting on its impact on my teaching. Regular self-assessment and professional development workshops also guide me in refining my practices and enhancing student engagement.

I believe I am a good fit for the 1st Grade Teacher position at Lansing School District due to my strong commitment to building positive relationships and providing equitable education. My previous experience in diverse classrooms has equipped me with the skills to adapt my teaching strategies, making learning accessible for all students.

A challenging situation I faced involved managing a classroom with varying behavioral issues. By implementing a clear behavior management plan and working closely with parents, I established a supportive environment. Regular communication and team-building activities helped to improve student interactions and engagement.