English Learner (EL) Teacher- Middle School and High Schoool

Sylvania; Benton Harbor (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Benton Harbor Area Schools seeks an English Learner (EL) Teacher for Benton Harbor High School to design and assess instructional programs for multilingual learners in grades 9–12.

You will collaborate with general education teachers, provide targeted language instruction, and use WIDA data to inform placement and growth. The role emphasizes equity and culturally responsive teaching.

Qualifications

• Must hold valid Michigan teaching certificate with ESL or Bilingual endorsement.
• Bachelor’s degree in Education/TESOL/Bilingual Education or related field.
• Deep understanding of second language acquisition and high school pedagogy.

Responsibilities

• Deliver English language development instruction (reading, writing, speaking, listening) using research-based methods (SIOP).
• Differentiate core high school curricula to support EL students at varying language levels.
• Analyze language proficiency assessments (WIDA) to drive instruction and placement decisions.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to scaffold content and provide accommodations.
• Maintain accurate compliance records, including ILPs and parent notification letters.
• Engage with multilingual families and support district PLCs and ongoing professional development.

Skills

EL education

Second language acquisition

Interpersonal skills

Educational technology

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education/TESOL/Bilingual Education

Michigan ESL/Bilingual certificate

Tools

WIDA assessments

Job description

Benton Harbor Area Schools

Job Description

JOB TITLE : English Learner (EL) Teacher

Supervisor: Building Principal

Location: Benton Harbor High School

JOB SUMMARY: The English Learner (EL) Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and assessing instructional programs designed to promote English language acquisition and academic success for multilingual learners in grades 9–12. The EL Teacher will provide targeted language instruction, collaborate with general education teachers to scaffold content, and foster an inclusive, culturally responsive learning environment that empowers students to reach their full academic and personal potential.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Valid Michigan Standard or Professional Teaching Certificate with an English as a Second Language (NS) or Bilingual Education (Y_) endorsement.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Education, TESOL, Bilingual Education, or a related field.
• Deep understanding of second language acquisition theories and high school pedagogy.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with educational technology and data management tools.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience teaching secondary multilingual learners in an urban or diverse school setting.
• Fluency in a second language (e.g., Spanish).

JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver high-quality, evidence-based English language development instruction (reading, writing, speaking, listening) using research-backed methods (e.g., SIOP model, ESL strategies).
• Differentiate and supplement core high school curricula to make content accessible to EL students at varying language proficiency levels.
• Administer, score, and analyze language proficiency assessments (such as WIDA) and utilize data to drive instruction, monitor student growth, and determine program placement/exiting.
• Partner with general education and content-area teachers to co-plan, co-serve, or consult on accommodations, modifications, and culturally responsive teaching practices.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date compliance records, including Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs), accommodation forms, and parent notification letters in accordance with Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and federal guidelines.
• Serve as a bridge between the school and multilingual families; advocate for EL students and encourage family participation in school activities and decision‑making processes.
• Participate in district-level professional learning communities (PLCs) and stay current on best practices in secondary TESOL/bilingual education.
• Regular and reliable attendance is an essential job duty.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Principal, Superintendent, or designee to ensure the efficient functioning of the educational program.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Commitment to Equity: Passionate about closing the opportunity gap and ensuring that every child, regardless of language background, receives an excellent education.
• Innovative Problem‑Solving: Approaches challenges with a sense of possibility and creates creative instructional modifications to support students; takes the initiative to explore issues and find potential innovative solutions.
• Adaptability: Excels in a dynamic school environment and flexibly shifts priorities to meet student and staff needs; comfortable with ambiguity and non‑routine situations.
• Teamwork: Increases the effectiveness of surrounding teams through collaboration, constant learning, and supporting others; sensitive to diversity in all its forms; respects and is committed to learning from others.
• Communication and Customer Service Skills: Communicates clearly and compellingly with diverse stakeholders in both oral and written forms; anticipates and responds to customer needs in a high‑quality and courteous manner.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Salary based on education and experience pursuant to the Benton Harbor Area School Board policies and collective bargaining agreement for any position that falls under collective bargaining.

EVALUATION

The performance of this job will be evaluated by the Building Principal.