7th Grade Language Arts Teacher
Starting the 2026-2027 School Year
POSITION: Middle School 7th Grade Language Arts Teacher
LOCATION: West Valley Middle School
QUALIFICATIONS:
All qualifications are required unless otherwise indicated.
- Valid Washington State Teacher’s Certificate with an endorsement in English Language Arts or English. Additional middle-level endorsements preferred.
- Evidence of successful middle-level teaching experience.
- Demonstrated experience with or willingness to implement Mastery-Based Learning (MBL) and Standards-Based Grading (SBG) practices; prior experience with MBL and SBG is preferred.
- Evidence of training and experience utilizing instructional technology, including grading systems, attendance tracking, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, email communication, and integration of technology into daily instruction.
- Evidence of successful instruction in reading, writing, speaking, listening, vocabulary development, and language conventions.
- Demonstrated ability to motivate and effectively instruct students of diverse ability levels.
- Evidence of differentiating instruction to meet varied learning styles and needs, including both foundational support and enrichment opportunities.
- Ability to maintain a positive, productive learning environment with students, parents, and colleagues.
- Commitment to dynamic, student-centered, and literacy-rich instructional practices.
- Understanding of the Washington State English Language Arts Learning Standards and the Common Core State Standards.
Willingness to participate in inclusive practices (e.g., co-teaching, co-planning, and other service delivery models).
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ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Teach 7th Grade English Language Arts aligned to Washington State standards.
- Prepare and deliver effective lessons, with written evidence of preparation available upon request.
- Create and maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
- Adhere to all West Valley School District and West Valley Middle School policies and expectations.
- Actively engage students in meaningful learning experiences that develop reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills.
- Incorporate higher-level thinking, literary analysis, research, and effective written communication into instruction, assessment, and daily student performance.
- Foster a classroom culture that promotes independent reading, academic discussion, collaboration, and a growth mindset.
- Collaborate effectively with colleagues and actively participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
- Establish and maintain open communication with students, parents, and colleagues.
- Demonstrate innovation and adaptability in response to evolving educational practices.
- Maintain a strong commitment to the success of all students.
- Participate in professional development aligned with district and school initiatives, including MBL and SBG implementation.
- Provide regular progress updates to parents and respond promptly to concerns.
- Maintain accurate student records, including grades, attendance, and required documentation.
- Enforce school rules and monitor student behavior in all settings.
- Implement requirements of IDEA, Section 504, and ADA to support students with disabilities.
- Utilize a variety of instructional strategies (e.g., workshop model, small-group instruction, literature circles, writing conferences, and technology integration).
Promote student ownership of learning through Universal Design for Learning (UDL), including offering multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression.
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Working Relationships
- Collaborate with teachers, support staff, and administrators.
- Communicate regularly with students, parents/guardians, and colleagues.
- Partner with grade-level teams to plan instruction, analyze student data, and support continuous improvement.
- Work cooperatively with administrators in evaluation and observation processes.
- Provide guidance and direction to instructional paraprofessionals as needed.
Effectively support a wide range of student abilities and behaviors, including managing challenging situations.
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Working Conditions
- Work is primarily performed in a classroom setting.
- Requires prolonged standing, sitting, and computer use.
- May involve outdoor supervision in varying weather conditions.
- May require lifting, moving, or assisting students and equipment.
- May involve exposure to bodily fluids and cleaning agents.
Requires the ability to manage high-stress or emotionally charged situations.
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Working Environment
- Physical demands may include lifting up to 50 pounds (or assisting with more), carrying, pushing, pulling, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and fine motor tasks.
- Work time is approximately divided among sitting (34%), walking (33%), and standing (33%).
Work is typically performed in a clean, hazard-free environment.
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Healthcare Benefits (SEBB):
(All Employees who work 630 hours per school year are eligible.)
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
Long Term Disability
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Additional Benefits:
- Washington State Retirement (PERS, SERS & TERS)
- Paid Leave:
- Paid Holiday
- Sick Leave
- Personal Leave
- Vacation (260-day employees only)
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CLEARANCES:
Fingerprint and Background Check; Drug Screening
CONTRACT:
Standard continuing WVSD teacher contract.
