Middle School English Teacher

Position Information

Job Classification  Faculty, Exempt, Salaried

FT/PT Status Regular Full Time

Work Schedule Normally Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and until all duties are completed; occasional after-school meetings or events may be required   

Department Middle School/English Department

Position Summary

The Middle School English Teacher provides instruction and supervision for students in grades 6 - 8. The individual in this position must understand and respond to the unique needs of students, fostering in each student a sense of confidence, ethics, responsibility and respect for others. Faculty are expected to actively engage students through a rigorous curriculum, which includes developmentally appropriate experiential learning programs in connection with the dynamic resources of the region.

The Middle School English Teacher performs under the general direction of the Head of School and under the daily supervision of the Director of Middle School. The individual in this position will work closely with the Director of Middle School, the English Department Chair, other department members, other faculty members, students, and parents.  

The Middle School English Teacher is responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

• Teach a combination of Middle School English and electives, managing the curriculum, discipline, and classroom organization, community, and environment
• Develop curriculum that reflects multiple cultural perspectives in literature and thought
• Plan and execute lessons in the context of a year-long departmental curriculum and competencies, in accordance with the school’s educational philosophy, and using varied methods of instruction and assessment
• Communicate with and respond to parents’ questions and concerns in an effective and timely manner through a variety of means, including email, telephone, student progress reports, and parent notices
• Complete student assessment reports (e.g., grades reports, interim comments, etc.) in accordance with school guidelines and the deadlines established by the Director of Middle School
• Collaborate closely with English Department colleagues to design assessments and activities that align with the department’s outcomes
• Work as a team member with teaching colleagues and administrators by attending all department meetings, Middle School faculty meetings, and in-service days, as well as serving on committees as needed
• Follows advancements in Generative AI to inform teaching practices and designing authentic assessments that center student knowledge and skill 
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for and engagement in the school’s:
• City as Our Campus initiative, actively seeking meaningful community connections for experiential learning opportunities within and outside the classroom
• Commitment to equity and inclusion, including but not limited to, curriculum, teaching practice, and professional growth
• Strategic priorities through designing and implementing learning experiences that are interdisciplinary, student-centered, and/or project-based
• Participate in a mentoring program with an experienced faculty member during the first two years of employment
• Commit to ongoing professional growth through professional development opportunities and participating in faculty review and growth processes.
• Assist the admission process by meeting with prospective families, attending admission events, and helping screen prospective candidates for admission
• Fulfill duties that are connected with non-academic responsibilities, including but not limited to serving as an advisor, monitoring study halls, providing coverage for absent colleagues as needed, and other assignments

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in English or a related discipline is required; a Master’s degree is preferred. Previous teaching experience is preferred, along with experience teaching a multicultural curriculum. The ability to create an interesting and challenging learning environment for students is required. The successful candidate will have experience with and enthusiasm for community-based, project-based and interdisciplinary learning. Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with students, colleagues and parents are required. A demonstrated ability to meet the needs of a diverse student population and to utilize technology in the classroom are required. The successful candidate will have an educational philosophy that is consistent with that of the school.

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Organizational Chart

Head of School; Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning; Director of Middle School; Middle School English Teacher

Bachelors Degree

About Winchester Thurston School

Nationally recognized for innovative teaching, Winchester Thurston is a Junior Pre-K through Grade 12 independent school providing a rigorous college preparatory program that prepares students for the challenges of a changing world. Situated within Pittsburgh’s university and cultural center, WT offers exceptional learning experiences in partnership with surrounding resources. Learn more at www.winchesterthurston.org. Consistently named one of America’s most livable cities, Pittsburgh and its region feature distinctive culture, sports, and recreation. Visit: www.visitpittsburgh.com/essentials/ to learn about living in our community.

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