Job Description:

Middle School Language Arts Teacher

Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing, foster communication skills, develop an understanding and appreciation of literature of all types, motivate students to read a wide variety of publications to derive information, comprehend and critically assess the reading materials, and to promote the development of skills in the field of English reading, grammar and syntax.

Essential Functions

• Develops and administers English education curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Teaches knowledge and skills in English grammar and syntax, sentence and paragraph structure, composition, vocabulary and proper word usage, word denotations and connotations, creative writing, independent thinking, communication and speaking.
• Develops standards for critical analysis through group discussions on a variety of reading materials, including the mass media, and a wide range of literature.
• Works with students and others to prepare materials for inclusion in literary publications, contests, etc.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs.
• Maintains familiarity with district and North Dakota State standardized tests for the purpose of adapting curriculum to maximize student achievement on such tests.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms to the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
• Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.

Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
                Note:    The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of English grammar, word usage, word denotations and connotations, spelling, literature and other content areas taught.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.
      
Certification/License:
North Dakota State Certification as an Language Arts Education Teacher.

Education:
Bachelor from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.

Experience:
Successful prior teaching experiences in Language Arts is a plus.

Benefits

• Retirement: McKenzie County Public School District #1 contributes both sides of TFFR for our Certified Staff. That's a $0 cost incurred to you while 27.762% of your gross wages are being placed into retirement each year for you to utilize in your later years!
• Insurance: With a comprehensive insurance plan, we utilize Blue Cross Blue Shield's NDPHIT for health insurance and Blue Cross Blue Shield for Vision and Dental Insurance offerings. Single without dependent Contract Staff can enjoy their health insurance being 100% paid for by the School District!
• Leave: Contract Staff Begin With: 3 Personal Days, 15 Sick Days of which, up to 10 can be allocated to Family Sick, 4 Funeral Days

Professional Development

• All new teachers to the district will be provided with a mentor.
• Annual professional development opportunities are available to teachers throughout the year.

Continued Education Opportunities

• University of North Dakota: Masters Program offered on site in Watford City with three different program tracks. Five Month completion timeline and a 50% grant to cover tuition costs. This program aims to provide Master Level classes to our staff and support rural education systems to build leaders within.
• University of Mary: Watford City office with classes and Master support.

Salary: 
$50,000 - $84,500