Kindergarten Teacher

Position: Kindergarten TeacherLocation: Mountainview ElementaryQualifications:Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution, Master's Degree preferredValid Washington State Teacher Certificate with proper endorsementsMust fulfill requirements for "Highly Qualified" status under NCLBKindergarten teaching experience preferred, but not requiredESL Endorsement PreferredBilingual and bi-literate skills in English/Spanish preferred, but not requiredJob Description:Instruct students in accordance with WVSD curriculum guidelines and Common Core StandardsCreate and maintain a safe, positive, productive learning environment for all studentsEstablish high standards of student behavior to achieve a classroom atmosphere conducive to learningDesign an attractive and effective learning environment through functional displays, bulletin boards, and interest centersEstablish and maintain open lines of communication with students, parents, and colleaguesConsistently use a variety of research proven instructional strategies to keep students actively engaged in relevant, rigorous learning activitiesProvide individualized and small group instruction in order to meet unique needs of each studentAssist students in development of citizenship, social skills, and moral characterRegularly assess students' academic and social growth, and use the data to inform instructionCommunicate regularly and proactively with parents to keep them apprised of their child's progress and behaviorIdentify students at risk (academic, medical, emotional, etc.), and cooperate with other professional staff members to evaluate problems and plan appropriate interventionsSupervise students both in and out of the classroom throughout the school dayMaintain accurate records as required (student attendance, academic progress, lesson plans, etc.)Select and requisition books and instructional aides, and maintain required inventory recordsActively participate in staff meetings, faculty committees, PTA events, and the sponsorship of student activitiesParticipate cooperatively in the teacher evaluation process by setting goals for professional growth, gathering evidence of instructional effectiveness, and using feedback to improve practicesMaintain professional competence by reading professional publications and participating in workshops, conferences, and district in-service activitiesPerform other tasks as assignedRequired Skills, Knowledge, and AbilitiesDemonstrated ability to interact easily, effectively, and positively with students, staff, and parentsMust be enthusiastic, flexible, and committed to students' successDemonstrated ability to create and maintain a positive, productive learning atmosphereProven ability to motivate and support students with diverse academic and behavioral needsKnowledge of and ability to use positive, productive techniques for improving student behaviorAbility to build strong relationships with parents and involve them as active partners in their children's educationSensitivity to cultural and language differences and ability to make all feel respected and valuedProven ability to serve as a reliable, responsible, contributing member of a teamKnowledge of Washington State Grade Level Expectations and the Common Core StandardsAbility and willingness to follow recommendations from district administrators and specialistsAbility to use a variety of computer software programs, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point, and internet browsersPositive attitude and sense of humor!Bilingual PreferredWorking RelationshipsWork in partnership with both large and small groups of teachers and other professional staff. Communicate regularly with students, parents/guardians, and teaching staff. Team up with grade level colleagues to plan lessons, analyze student data, and maintain a focus on continuous improvement. Cooperate with building administrator in the observation and evaluation process. When working with instructional paraprofessionals, provide appropriate lesson plans and activity supervision. May deal with a wide range of student abilities and behaviors; may occasionally deal with distraught or difficult students.Working ConditionsThe daily work is performed in a classroom setting. The job incumbent is often required to stand or sit for prolonged periods, be exposed to computer display terminal for prolonged periods, and meet externally imposed and inflexible deadlines. May be required to work outdoors in inclement weather; lift, move, and position students and equipment; supervise students, bus loading/unloading; attend to students' personal hygiene; may be required to deal with distraught, angry, or hostile individuals; may need to take precautions to avoid exposure to student bodily fluids and cleaning or disinfecting compounds; required to work in non-routine positions for extended periods.Working EnvironmentThe usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting (able to lift 50 pounds and assisting in lifting over 50 pounds), carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires 34% sitting, 33% walking, and 33% standing. The job related is performed under a generally hazard free environment and in a clean atmosphere.Healthcare Benefits (SEBB): (All Employees who work 630 hours per school year are eligible.)Medical InsuranceDental InsuranceVision InsuranceLife InsuranceLong Term DisabilityAdditional Benefits:Washington State Retirement (PERS, SERS & TERS)Paid Leave:Paid Holiday (260-day employees and bargaining groups that have holidays included within their CBA)Sick LeavePersonal LeaveVacation (260-day employees only)Employee Assistance Program (EAP)VEBA (Non-Rep, WVEA, Principal, Directors and Superintendent(s) ONLY)