Spanish Teacher - Middle School

JOB TITLE:  SPANISH TEACHER

POSITION LEVEL:  GRADES 5�8

SUPERVISOR:  PRINCIPAL OR ADMINISTRATIVE DESIGNEE

JOB SUMMARY:

The effective and successful Spanish teacher is responsible for creating and delivering high-quality, engaging Spanish language instruction to all students in grades 5�8, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that promotes linguistic and cultural growth.

This role involves developing and implementing a sequential, multi-year curriculum aligned with district standards and ACTFL proficiency guidelines; progressing students from novice (grade 5) to intermediate (grade 8) proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The Spanish teacher assesses and monitors student progress, manages classroom behavior, and communicates regularly with parents and colleagues. The teacher strives to inspire a love of language learning and equips students with the communication skills necessary for academic and real-world success.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Spanish, Education, or a related field.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator Licensure with World Language/Spanish endorsement (required).
• Native or near-native Spanish proficiency (required).
• Elementary and/or middle school teaching endorsement (required).
• Displays proficiency in Microsoft Office applications: Word, PowerPoint, and Google platforms for communications.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm when teaching and communicating with students.
• Presents a positive, professional, and ethical image to students, parents, and staff.
• Demonstrates the ability to serve as an educational advocate for students.
• Uses clear/concise oral and written communications; interpersonal skills; and provides instruction using a multisensory approach.
• Demonstrates leadership skills in working with individuals and groups.
• Health examination for new employees part-time or full-time: Chapter 122 Article 24-5 of Illinois School Code mandates that School boards shall require of new employees evidence of physical fitness to perform duties assigned and freedom from communicable disease, including tuberculosis. Such evidence shall consist of a physical examination and a tuberculin test and, if appropriate, an x-ray. The cost of such examination shall rest with the employee.
• Must pass a comprehensive drug screening.
• Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check.
• Must be able to lift or move at least 25 lbs.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plans for quality, engaging Spanish language instruction utilizing various methods of delivery, including communicative language teaching, direct instruction, differentiation, modeling, student-led discussions, independent practice, hands-on activities, projects, and technology integration to address diverse learning needs.
• Designs and implements a sequential curriculum that builds proficiency across grades 5�8, from novice to intermediate levels per ACTFL standards.
• Uses district-approved curriculum and incorporates authentic cultural content from Spanish-speaking countries.
• Assesses and monitors student language proficiency through tests, quizzes, oral assessments, projects, and portfolio-based demonstrations.
• Creates and maintains a positive, safe, and immersive language learning environment conducive to teaching and learning.
• Demonstrates effective classroom management skills; establishes and enforces classroom rules and procedures.
• Manages student behavior and timely addresses all disciplinary issues.
• Supervises students in classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, assemblies, and during field trips and extracurricular activities.
• Displays patience and tolerance when working with all students.
• Demonstrates firmness and fairness with supervision and discipline of students.
• Provides timely constructive feedback to students and parents.
• Demonstrates a collaborative and professional work ethic.
• Maintains accurate records of student performance, grades, and attendance.
• Maximizes instructional time and provides continuity of instruction.
• Participates in open houses, parent-teacher conferences, staff meetings, school-sponsored activities/events, and student/parent consultation.
• Collaborates with colleagues to improve instructional practices and strategies.
• Stays current with educational trends, studies, and best practices in world language instruction.
• Participates in professional development workshops and training sessions to enhance professional growth and instructional skills.
• Demonstrates a strong knowledge of Spanish language, linguistics, and pedagogy.
• Displays patience, empathy, and a passion for teaching students across grades 5�8.
• Implements student individualized education plans, 504 plans, and behavior plans as applicable.
• Demonstrates skills and effectiveness in working with diverse populations.
• Adaptable, innovative thinker with an enthusiastic, energetic, positive attitude.
• Adheres to Board Policy, administrative rules, and regulations.
• Reports to work daily and arrives on time.
• Takes responsibility as a mandated reporter.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:  Certified 10-month employee.

EVALUATION:  Evaluated by the Principal or Designee in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

SALARY:  Compensation is based on years of experience and the Teacher Salary Schedule in accordance with the CBA.