Middle School ELA Teacher: Ignite Reading & Writing Success

Rochester Math and Science Academy; Rochester (MN); On-site; Full time

Job description

Overview

• A Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher is responsible for delivering rigorous, standards-based instruction aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in English Language Arts as established by the Minnesota Department of Education. Instruction is designed to prepare students for success on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) by developing strong reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language skills. The role emphasizes critical thinking, text analysis, and effective communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver instruction aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in English Language Arts, ensuring students are prepared for MCA reading and writing assessments
• Teach reading comprehension strategies using a variety of literary and informational texts
• Develop students’ writing skills across multiple genres, including narrative, informational, and argumentative writing
• Provide explicit instruction in grammar, vocabulary, and language conventions
• Facilitate discussions that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and respectful exchange of ideas
• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction
• Analyze student data to support growth toward grade-level proficiency
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including multilingual learners and students receiving special education services
• Create a classroom environment that supports literacy development and a love of reading

Instructional Expectations

• Emphasize close reading, text-based analysis, and evidence-based writing
• Support students in citing textual evidence to support claims and interpretations
• Integrate speaking and listening opportunities through structured discussions and presentations
• Incorporate diverse and culturally relevant texts that reflect students’ identities and experiences
• Build students’ academic vocabulary and language skills across content areas
• Integrate technology to enhance reading, writing, and research skills

Assessment and MCA Alignment

• Design and implement assessments aligned to MCA expectations and grade-level standards
• Use benchmark and common assessments to track student progress
• Provide targeted interventions and enrichment based on assessment data
• Support students in developing strategies for responding to MCA-style questions and tasks

Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure alignment of curriculum and instructional practices
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities focused on literacy development and data analysis
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and academic goals
• Engage in ongoing professional development related to literacy instruction, standards alignment, and assessment practices

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in English, education, or a related field
• Valid Minnesota teaching license in English Language Arts or appropriate licensure area
• Knowledge of the Minnesota Academic Standards in English Language Arts and MCA assessment expectations
• Strong classroom management and instructional skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching middle school ELA in a standards-based environment
• Familiarity with MCA reading and writing assessments
• Experience supporting multilingual learners and diverse student populations
• Knowledge of best practices in literacy instruction, including differentiated and culturally responsive teaching
• This position requires a commitment to ensuring all students achieve proficiency in literacy through standards-aligned instruction, data-driven decision-making, and preparation for success on state assessments.