24'-25 Academic School Year High School English Language Learner Teacher ( 9th-12th Grade)

As a High School English Language Learner Teacher at STEM Preparatory Academy, your main responsibilities will include planning and delivering tailored instruction to ELL students, implementing and monitoring Individualized Learning Plans, engaging with a team of ELL educators, and conducting assessments such as the WIDA ACCESS test. Additionally, you'll be required to collaborate with families and stakeholders, create an inclusive classroom environment, and develop strong community relationships to support student learning and language development.

To qualify as an English Language Learner Teacher at STEM Preparatory Academy, candidates must possess at least a Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field, a Tennessee Teaching License with the appropriate endorsement, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusivity. A high level of personal integrity, professional dedication to academic achievement, and a team-oriented mindset are also essential for this role.

Collaboration is a key aspect of being an ELL Teacher at STEM Preparatory Academy. You will work alongside other teachers to implement ELL accommodations across all content areas, share best practices, and ensure that instructional strategies align with curriculum standards. Regular team meetings will provide opportunities to discuss student progress, brainstorm innovative teaching methods, and plan engaging learning activities that meet the diverse needs of ELL students.

The salary for the High School English Language Learner Teacher position at STEM Preparatory Academy follows a Step Scale based on years of experience and educational qualifications. This competitive salary structure reflects the value placed on teaching excellence and ensures fair compensation for the important work performed by educators.

STEM Preparatory Academy fosters a supportive and inclusive culture for ELL Teachers, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and high academic expectations. As an ELL Teacher, you'll actively contribute to a positive learning environment and be part of a community that values diversity and is dedicated to the success of all students. The school also prioritizes professional development, ensuring that educators have access to high-quality training that supports instructional best practices.

To effectively plan lessons for English Language Learner students, I would begin by assessing their individual language proficiency levels and their specific learning needs. I would tailor my lesson plans to incorporate strategies that enhance language acquisition, such as using visuals, interactive activities, and culturally relevant materials. Additionally, I would include opportunities for collaborative learning and peer support to foster a supportive classroom environment.

One successful strategy I've used to support ELL students is implementing a 'word wall' in the classroom. This visual aid not only showcases key vocabulary but also helps students engage with the language daily. Additionally, I incorporate hands-on activities that allow students to use new vocabulary in context, reinforcing their understanding and encouraging active participation.

I utilize a combination of formative and summative assessments to gauge the progress of my ELL students. This includes regular check-ins through quizzes, group projects, and individual presentations. I also ensure that assessments are language-appropriate and provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding in various ways, including oral and visual presentations.

Involving families and the community is essential for the success of ELL students. I usually organize workshops and informational sessions that outline our curriculum goals and provide resources for families to support learning at home. Moreover, I encourage open communication with parents through newsletters and personal outreach to keep them engaged and informed about their child's progress.

To create an inclusive environment for ELL students, I prioritize cultural responsiveness in classroom discussions and activities. I actively celebrate diverse cultures and languages, ensuring that all students see themselves reflected in the curriculum. Additionally, I implement peer mentoring systems and group work to promote collaboration and support among students of varying language abilities.

Professional development is critical to my teaching practice as it keeps me updated on the latest strategies and best practices for supporting ELL students. I prioritize attending workshops, participating in webinars, and engaging with other educators to continuously enhance my instructional methods. Sharing knowledge with colleagues further enriches my teaching and benefits my students.

Supporting language goal progress monitoring involves creating a structured system for regular assessments and evaluations. I would establish clear language goals for each ELL student, collect data through ongoing assessments, and regularly communicate progress to students and their families. This approach promotes accountability while also encouraging student engagement in their own learning journey.

My motivation to teach English Language Learner students stems from my belief in the transformative power of education. I am passionate about helping students overcome language barriers and succeed academically. Witnessing their growth and their newfound confidence in communication reaffirm my commitment to this vital role.

When challenges arise in the classroom with ELL students, I approach them with empathy and a solution-oriented mindset. I focus on identifying the root cause of the challenge and adapting my teaching strategies accordingly. Open communication with students about their difficulties encourages them to share and seek help, fostering a supportive classroom culture.

The most important quality for an ELL teacher to possess is cultural sensitivity and a deep understanding of the diverse backgrounds of students. This allows us to connect with students meaningfully and cater to their needs, ensuring that they feel valued and understood while facilitating their learning and growth.