Overview of Position

GENERAL SUMMARY A classroom teacher performs, under the general direction of the building principal or program manager and with assistance from appropriate staff personnel. A classroom teacher fosters and enhances an effective learning environment; facilitates the development or revision of curriculum and instructional materials; establishes learning objectives and standards based upon general District guidelines; provides instruction, counsels, disciplines, and supervises to meet the individual needs of assigned students; and, to evaluate student performance and progress.

Essential Functions

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Fosters an educational environment conducive to the learning and maturation process of assigned students; plans an instructional program designed to meet individual student needs and whole groups which may include at risk or special needs youth; prepares lesson plans.
2. Uses necessary and appropriate instructional methods and materials, which are suited to the well-being of the students and to the nature of the learning activities, program and/or curriculum involved; implements established program or curriculum objectives; attends in-service training and continues to improve professional growth through study and experimentation to remain current in methods and techniques for instruction.
3. Establishes and implements, in a positive and supportive manner, classroom policies and procedures governing student behavior and conduct; provides guidance, counseling, and discipline to encourage students to meet standards of achievement and conduct; makes referrals for assistance where appropriate.
4. Confers with students, parents or guardians, and other staff, maintaining an open positive relationship as appropriate to provide guidance and evaluation, and to encourage student achievement.
5. Establishes classroom goals and objectives, in conformation with courses of study specified by State and School District statutes, regulations and guidelines; evaluates and records student progress; prepares reports for parents or guardians.
6. Collects and interprets a variety of data; provides reports for administrative purposes.
7. Directs the activities of assigned non-certificated personnel.
8. Attends or participates in all required staff meetings and other activities deemed necessary by the District and/or building principal, in order to accomplish the objectives of the position and for professional achievement.

OTHER FUNCTIONS

1. Serves on staff committees as required.
2. Participates in a variety of activities to enhance personal and professional skills.
3. Performs related tasks consistent with the scope and responsibility of the position.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to the building principal.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Required to deal with a wide range of student achievement and behavior; required to remain flexible to meet students immediate needs; required to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize; may experience frequent interruptions; may occasionally deal with distraught or difficult students; potentially exposed to ordinary infectious diseases carried by students; in some positions the necessary and appropriate instructional methods may require specific positions and movements, and sufficient stamina and exertions, to demonstrate techniques properly for student safety, or to conduct or direct students; in some positions precautions may need to be taken to prevent or lessen exposure of self and/or students to various materials, fumes, equipment, cutting edges or hot surfaces; may teach in a classroom without telephone communication.

Typical Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience Bachelor's degree or appropriate industry background that qualifies the teacher for a Washington State CTE credential; academic preparation for or experience in teaching a culturally, racially and economically diverse student population in an urban school system. Specific programs may require additional academic preparation or professional experience, including; working with bilingual students and assisting them in the transition to regular classrooms; implementing programs designed to prevent the dropout of "at risk" students; and, teaching multi-level, open-concept, and main streamed classes.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of: Subject areas appropriate to assignment; effective behavior management techniques; effective instructional techniques; rules and procedures for student safety.

Skill in: Proficiency in reading, writing, and oral communications; effective communication with parents or guardians in a diverse community; designing and implementing lesson plans for students having a wide range of achievement.

Ability to: Deal with students in a positive and confident manner; be fair and consistent when working with a culturally, racially, and economically diverse student population; adapt to change and remain flexible; organize activities; manage student behavior; use good judgement to maintain a safe learning environment; provide instruction and demonstrate techniques; use necessary equipment, computers, machinery, tools, or software; direct assistants; in some positions, administer first aid and CPR; establish and maintain effective, positive working relationships with students, parents or guardians, staff and administrators.

Licenses/Special Requirements

Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate; some positions may require valid first aid and CPR certification; some positions may require a valid Washington State driver's license and/or a Class II driver's license.