5th Grade Writing & ELA Teacher

Santa Fe South West Middle School | Santa Fe South Charter Schools
Oklahoma City, OK | 190–195 Day Contract (195 days for new teachers; 190 days for returning teachers)

About Santa Fe South Charter Schools

Santa Fe South Charter Schools (SFS) is a free, public charter network that has served the south side of Oklahoma City for more than 20 years. Rooted in the communities we serve, SFS is committed to providing a challenging, student-centered education that prepares scholars to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Guided by a belief in the potential of every student, Santa Fe South emphasizes strong instruction, meaningful relationships, and the development of life skills, self-confidence, and social responsibility. Our schools work in close partnership with families to ensure students are equipped to succeed in high school, college, careers, and an ever-changing global society.

About West Middle School

Santa Fe South West Middle School opened in the 2023–2024 school year and was intentionally designed to serve the Southwest Oklahoma City community. West MS is a vibrant, mission-driven campus grounded in strong systems, clear expectations, and a relentless focus on student achievement.

West MS is driven by a deep love for kids and content. We are committed to delivering rigorous, grade-level curriculum bell to bell every day, fostering grit and resilience, and celebrating student growth as a core measure of success. Educators at West MS benefit from strong instructional coaching, collaborative teams, and a supportive environment focused on continuous improvement and excellence.

Position Overview

The 5th Grade Writing & ELA Teacher at Santa Fe South West Middle School plays a critical role in developing students’ writing skills and strengthening foundational literacy as they transition into middle school.

This teacher leads rigorous writing instruction while also supporting students in strengthening foundational reading skills through structured literacy practices. As part of West MS’s commitment to strong literacy development, the teacher will implement targeted foundational skill instruction—including evidence-based phonics through the 95% Phonics program—to ensure students build the decoding and word recognition skills necessary for long-term reading success.

The 5th Grade Writing & ELA Teacher will implement the SFS ELA framework with fidelity while collaborating closely with grade-level and content teams to ensure cohesive instruction, high expectations, and measurable student growth.

Key Responsibilities
Deliver high-quality writing and ELA instruction aligned to Oklahoma Academic Standards and the SFS ELA framework.
Teach explicit writing instruction that develops students’ ability to organize ideas, construct evidence-based responses, and communicate clearly across multiple writing genres.
Internalize and execute engaging, bell-to-bell lessons that prioritize student engagement, discussion, and growth in written expression.
Implement structured literacy practices—including the 95% Phonics program—to strengthen foundational reading skills and support overall literacy development.
Use student data (including formative assessments and NWEA MAP Growth) to monitor progress and adjust instruction to meet student needs.
Implement consistent classroom routines, procedures, and expectations that support a safe, structured, and joyful learning environment.
Collaborate with grade-level and content teams to strengthen curriculum implementation, pacing, and instructional practices.
Engage fully in coaching cycles, lesson internalization, and professional learning aligned to Santa Fe South’s commitment to continuous growth.
Build strong relationships with students and families, including participation in student data conversations and family engagement efforts.
Contribute positively to a strong, inclusive school culture grounded in high expectations and mutual accountability.
What We’re Looking For
A mission-driven educator who believes all students can achieve at high levels with the right instruction and support.
Strong content knowledge in writing and ELA.
Willingness to grow, reflect, and continuously improve through feedback, coaching, and collaboration.
Ability to motivate, connect with, and advocate for upper elementary students and their families.
Alignment with Santa Fe South’s values of high expectations, strong relationships, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications

Required
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Valid Oklahoma teaching certification (or willingness/eligibility to obtain certification)

Preferred
Experience teaching upper elementary or middle school ELA or writing
Experience using student data to drive instructional decisions
Familiarity with structured literacy practices or evidence-based reading instruction (such as 95% Phonics)

Why Join West MS?

Teachers at West Middle School are part of a collaborative, mission-driven team committed to academic excellence and strong student outcomes. Educators receive robust coaching, clear instructional expectations, and ongoing professional development within a supportive and joyful school community.

Job Requirements:
Bachelor degree preferred.
Citizenship, residency or work visa required