Upper Elementary Teacher

As an Upper Elementary Teacher at the Lansing School District, your primary responsibilities will include providing world-class instruction across key subjects such as math, literacy, social studies, and science. You'll be expected to foster a safe and welcoming environment, build strong relationships with students and parents, and utilize data to differentiate instruction effectively. Additionally, you'll collaborate with colleagues and school leaders to enhance the educational experience for all students.

To apply for the Upper Elementary Teacher position at the Lansing School District, you must possess a bachelor's degree in education and have prior experience working with elementary students. While a valid Michigan teaching certificate with an elementary endorsement is preferred, it's essential to demonstrate alignment with the school's mission and values. Candidates should also be open to participating in Montessori training if not previously certified.

Montessori experience is preferred but not required for the Upper Elementary Teacher role at the Lansing School District. The school values eagerness to learn, so if you are not Montessori certified, you will be expected to partake in Montessori training throughout the calendar year. This makes the position a great opportunity for those willing to expand their teaching repertoire.

The salary for the Upper Elementary Teacher position at the Lansing School District ranges from $46,942 to $95,000 annually. This pay scale honors your years of experience in equivalent roles and additional degrees beyond a Bachelor's degree. The district is committed to providing competitive compensation to attract passionate educators.

The Lansing School District is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing equal opportunities to all qualified applicants for the Upper Elementary Teacher position, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, color, religion, or sexual orientation. The district actively fosters an environment that values diverse perspectives, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to contribute to our mission-driven educational community.

To create an inclusive classroom environment, I focus on building relationships with my students and understanding their unique backgrounds and learning needs. By implementing diverse teaching strategies and collaborating with other educators, I ensure that every student feels valued and supported. This approach not only enhances individual growth but also promotes a positive classroom culture.

Absolutely! One effective lesson plan I developed involved a hands-on science experiment where students explored the concept of buoyancy. I engaged them with a question, provided materials, and guided them through the process while encouraging collaborative discussion. This not only helped them grasp the concept but also fostered teamwork and communication skills, which are vital in our classrooms.

Differentiating instruction involves assessing each student's understanding and tailoring lessons accordingly. I employ flexible grouping, use varied instructional strategies, and provide multiple avenues for students to demonstrate their learning. Additionally, I use formative assessments to adjust my approach dynamically, ensuring that every student can access the curriculum and find success.

I believe strong communication with parents is crucial for student success. I utilize various strategies such as regular newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and one-on-one emails or calls to keep parents informed about their child’s progress. I also encourage feedback and open discussions, making parents feel involved in the educational process.

Effective classroom management begins with establishing clear expectations and routines from day one. I use positive reinforcement to celebrate good behavior, while consistently addressing misbehavior in a constructive way. Building strong rapport with my students also allows me to understand their triggers and maintain a positive learning environment.

Collaboration is vital in an elementary classroom. It fosters a sense of community among students and encourages them to learn from one another. As an educator, I provide opportunities for group projects and peer reviews, ensuring students actively participate in their learning process while developing essential social skills.

I integrate technology into my teaching by using interactive platforms for lessons and allowing students to engage with educational apps that reinforce their skills. I also involve them in research projects using digital tools, which not only makes learning fun but prepares them for the tech-savvy world they’ll be entering.

One challenging situation involved a student who was struggling both academically and socially. To address this, I set up a meeting with the student’s parents and began regular check-ins. I worked to provide individualized support, and slowly but surely, they started to improve, showing remarkable growth both in academics and peer interactions.

I utilize a combination of formative and summative assessments to gauge student learning. Observations, quizzes, projects, and discussions help me understand their progress while identifying areas that need reinforcement. This allows me to adjust instruction accordingly and support each student’s unique learning path.

I am drawn to the Lansing School District because of its commitment to diverse educational options and its mission to provide excellent education in a nurturing environment. I believe my passion for student-centered learning aligns perfectly with the District's values, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute positively to the academic and personal growth of students.