JOB TITLE:      Classroom teacher for Grade 3, 4, or 5

SCHOOL:            Syracuse Elementary

TYPE OF POSITION: Certified - Full Time

REPORTS TO:    Principal

STATUS:  Exempt

CONTRACT:       184 days

Position Purpose:

The Elementary Teacher (Grades 3-5) is responsible for fostering a positive and engaging learning environment that promotes academic growth. The teacher implements the adopted curriculum, facilitates differentiated instruction, and utilizes data-driven strategies to ensure student success. The teacher also collaborates with colleagues, families, and the community to support student learning and well-being.

Essential Functions:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.

Instructional Responsibilities:

• Develops and implements engaging lesson plans aligned with Indiana Academic Standards and district curriculum.
• Differentiates instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, including those with exceptionalities and English language learners.
• Uses research-based instructional strategies, including the Science of Reading, to improve literacy and comprehension skills.
• Facilitates student-centered learning activities that promote critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Assesses student learning through formative and summative assessments and uses data to drive instruction.
• Provides timely and meaningful feedback to students and parents regarding academic progress.

Classroom Management & Environment:

• Establishes a positive classroom culture that fosters respect, responsibility, and high expectations.
• Implements proactive classroom management strategies that align with school-wide behavioral expectations.
• Creates a safe and inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued and supported.
• Encourages student independence and accountability for learning.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Maintains regular communication with parents/guardians regarding student progress, behavior, and ways to support learning at home.
• Collaborates with grade-level teams, specialists, and support staff to align instruction and interventions.
• Participates in professional learning communities (PLCs) and contributes to data-driven discussions.
• Engages with the school community and participates in events that support student development.

Professional Responsibilities:

• Maintains accurate records of student progress, attendance, and other required documentation.
• Participates in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices and educational trends.
• Adheres to ethical standards, school policies, and district procedures.
• Completes additional duties as assigned by the principal or administration.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in education or related field.
• Certification: Valid Indiana teaching license for elementary education. Must have or obtain the IDOE Early Literacy Endorsement.
• Skills & Competencies:
• Strong knowledge of child development and best practices for upper elementary instruction.
• Ability to differentiate instruction and implement intervention strategies.
• Excellent classroom management and student engagement skills.
• Strong collaboration and communication abilities.
• Proficiency in using technology to support teaching and learning.

Physical Demands: Must be able to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, and use hands to handle objects. Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: The work environment is a standard classroom setting with moderate noise levels. The teacher may be required to supervise students in outdoor activities and other school-related settings.

Terms Of Employment: Length of school year and salary determined by the Wawasee Community School Corporation School Board.

Evaluation: Performance evaluation will be conducted according to the school district’s policies and guidelines.