JOB GOAL:

To ensure that all students at Watson Elementary develop strong foundational skills in early literacy, language acquisition, and content mastery, enabling them to become confident, capable, and responsible learners. The teacher will support a schoolwide focus on literacy development, particularly for English Learners, through research-based instructional practices.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

This position is a nine and one-fourth (9.25) month contract (190 days), plus a benefits package. Placement within the salary range will be determined based on experience and LRSD guidelines.
FLSA Status: Exempt

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree required (graduate coursework preferred).


• Valid Arkansas Teacher’s License in Elementary Education (K–6) or Early Childhood Education (P–4).


• Demonstrated competency in the total teaching process with a strong emphasis on early literacy instruction (phonics, fluency, comprehension, and writing).


• Knowledge of and experience with ESOL strategies and second language acquisition.


• SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol) training or willingness to obtain training preferred.


• Ability to effectively differentiate instruction for diverse learners, including English Learners and students performing below grade level.


• Understanding of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic diversity and its impact on student achievement.


• Commitment to ongoing professional development, particularly in literacy, language development, and instructional best practices.


• Ability to design and implement hands-on, engaging, and standards-aligned instructional materials.


• Willingness to collaborate in PLCs and contribute to a data-driven instructional culture.


• Other qualifications as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent or Board.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties reflect the instructional priorities of Watson Elementary, particularly in early literacy, language development, and student growth:

• Maintain accurate and complete student records in alignment with district and state requirements.


• Plan and deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction with a strong focus on early literacy development, including phonics, reading comprehension, writing, and vocabulary.


• Utilize SIOP strategies to make content accessible for English Learners, including language objectives, scaffolds, structured student discourse, and vocabulary development.


• Implement evidence-based literacy practices (e.g., Fundations, Writing Revolution, structured literacy approaches) to accelerate student achievement.


• Regularly assess student progress using formative and summative data; adjust instruction to meet the needs of all learners, with targeted support for the lowest-performing students and English Learners.


• Create a classroom environment that fosters language-rich interactions, student engagement, and a love for reading and learning.


• Integrate speaking, listening, reading, and writing across all content areas to strengthen literacy development.


• Collaborate with colleagues in PLCs (Professional Learning Communities) to analyze data, plan instruction, and share effective strategies.


• Provide intentional small-group instruction and interventions during designated instructional blocks (e.g., WIN time).


• Communicate regularly with families to support literacy development and student progress, including strategies for learning at home.


• Use a variety of instructional strategies and materials to meet diverse learning needs, including technology and culturally relevant resources.


• Maintain a structured, positive, and equitable classroom environment aligned with schoolwide expectations (PBIS and Essential 10).


• Participate in ongoing professional development focused on literacy, ESOL, and instructional best practices.


• Support schoolwide initiatives aimed at increasing student achievement and closing learning gaps.


• Perform other duties as assigned by administration.

ADDITIONAL NOTE :

Watson Elementary is committed to accelerating student achievement through strong early literacy instruction, targeted support for English Learners, and the implementation of research-based instructional practices. Teachers are expected to actively contribute to this mission by engaging in continuous improvement, collaboration, and data-driven instruction.