The Siena School in Silver Spring is seeking a middle school English teacher for the 2026-27 school year who is passionate about teaching and an advocate for children with learning differences. We are looking for a highly collaborative teacher committed to designing and adapting instruction to meet a range of student learning needs and interests and committed to multisensory and differentiated instruction.

Job Summary:

Siena's English curriculum focuses on building written and oral language skills. The successful candidate will have experience providing individualized feedback and support during the writing process, and be proficient in providing experiential instruction that builds knowledge as well as skills. Through a seminar-style, discussion-based class, students are taught to interact with the text through annotation and learn to recognize patterns and ask questions while reading. Students complete creative projects, analytical essays, short research projects, and expository and creative writing. Instruction in grammar and vocabulary is embedded within the curriculum. Throughout the year students study at least four literary genres: the novel, the short story, poetry, and drama. History and English courses are connected to create an interdisciplinary experience and field trips to related productions or exhibits are prioritized when they become available in the area. With a passion for their subject, the successful applicant will enjoy working with other educators in a collaborative environment, integrating technology in a 1:1 Chromebook environment. 

At The Siena School, teachers encourage students' creative expression, incorporate student interest and passions, and develop critical thinking by creating a vibrant, student-centered environment that supports the learning and personal growth of each student. Siena faculty and staff work collaboratively with students, parents and professionals to create a nurturing but rigorous learning environment. We know our children well and engage them on a daily basis in exciting, intellectual dialogue. Through individualized, multisensory instruction, students develop critical thinking skills and acquire the tools and strategies needed to become successful and independent learners. A positive learning experience inspires our students to have confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Siena teachers work with students in small classes of 10:1 and address their individualized needs through both small-group and individualized instruction. They are skillful in establishing a strong relationship with students and creating learning opportunities that motivate and inspire students to develop all aspects of their learning needs.

Responsibilities include:

• Teaching several sections of 6th and 7th grade English classes
• Working with students, parents, and other teachers to fully develop a picture of students’ strengths and learning needs 
• Creating lesson plans and adapting curriculum to teach language arts 
• Regular and consistent communication with students, parents and colleagues

Salary and Benefits: $58,000 - $90,000 depending on experience.

Benefits include comprehensive insurance (medical, dental, and vision coverage); short-term and long-term disability coverage, including optional life insurance; 401(K) retirement plan with employer contributions; paid leave including holidays, parental, bereavement, and sick leave; SmartBenefits (for Metro transportation); tuition remission for eligible employees; sponsored professional development; discounted facility rentals and free parking.

Physical Requirements: Moderate physical work is required for this position including frequent walking, standing, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, and reaching. Must have the ability to lift, carry, push or pull equipment/boxes that weigh up to 10 pounds. Must be able to speak clearly and understand the speech of others.    

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification forms upon hire.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@thesienaschool.org. No phone inquiries, please.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated career interest in education
• Bachelor's degree with a strong academic track record. Advanced degree and 2-5 years of classroom experience preferred
• Strong language skills and a desire to make a difference for students whose intellect is ahead of their literacy skills
• Promoting joyful student engagement and a commitment to the education of dyslexic students are essential.
• Training or classroom experience with middle school students, differentiation and/or students with learning differences/dyslexia

About The Siena School

The Siena School has become a national leader in educating bright, college-bound students with mild to moderate language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia. With three campuses in the Washington, DC, area, Siena serves grades 3-12 and has a strong national reputation and growing enrollment. Siena's Forest Glen (grades 5-12) and Satellite (grades 3-4) campuses are in Silver Spring, MD, and Siena's Northern Virginia (grades 3-12) campus is in Oakton, VA. The school enrolls approximately 36% students of color. Siena focuses on the professional development of its staff, who are regularly published and have presented at national and international conferences, including the NAIS Annual Conference. Siena is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The Siena School is committed to equitable hiring practices, and enthusiastically encourages professionals of all backgrounds to apply.

Connections working at The Siena School