Second Grade Teacher at Westwood Community School District in Dearborn Heights, MI

Job description

1.0 2nd Grade Teacher (Effective 2026-2027 School Year) LOCATION: Thorne Elementary School REPORTS TO: Building principal COMPENSATION: According to the current contract with MEA/NEA BENEFITS: Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance Michigan Public School Retirement Plan POSTING DATES: July 9, 2026 � Until Filled PRIMARY PURPOSE: To create a flexible elementary grade program and a class environment favorable to learning and personal growth; to establish effective rapport with students; to motivate students to develop skills, attitudes and knowledge needed to provide a good foundation for elementary grade education in accordance with each student's ability; to establish good relationships with parents and other staff members. PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS : Bachelor's degree in education Must possess and maintain a valid Michigan Department of Education Teaching Certificate with any of the following endorsements: Upper Elementary Education 3-6 (ZP), Elementary K-5 all Subjects/K-8 Self CC (ZG) or General Elementary K-6 (ZE). Minimum of three (3) years of successful experience as an Elementary Teacher (preferred) KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Duties of this job include, but are not limited to: A. Teaches reading, language arts, social studies, mathematics, writing, science, art, health, and other related subjects, to students in a classroom, utilizing course of study adopted by the Board of Education, aligned to the common core state standards and other appropriate learning activities. B. Instructs students in citizenship and basic subject matter. C. Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and provides individualized and small group instruction in order to adapt the curriculum to the needs of each student. D. Uses a variety of instruction strategies, such as inquiry, group discussion, lecture, discovery, etc. E. Translates lesson plans into learning experiences to best utilize the available time for instruction. F. Establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom. G. Evaluates students' academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records, and prepares progress reports. H. Communicates with parents through conferences and other means to discuss students' progress and interpret the school program. I. Identifies student needs and cooperates with other professional staff members in assessing and helping students solve health, attitude, and learning problems. J. Creates an effective environment for learning through functional and attractive displays, bulletin boards, and interest centers. K . Maintains professional competence through in-service education activities provided by professional growth activities. L. Participates cooperatively with the appropriate administrator to develop the method by which the teacher will be evaluated in conformance with guidelines. M. Selects and requisitions books and instructional aides; maintains required inventory records. N. Knowledge and and/or willingness to incorporate AI tools to enhance collaboration and creativity. O. Provides bell to bell instruction P. Supervises students in out-of-classroom activities during the school day. Q. Administers group standardized tests in accordance with state testing program. R. Participates in curriculum development programs as required. S. Participates and is engaged in faculty and professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops. T. Works cooperatively with grade level and building colleagues to assist 6th grade students in the transition from elementary to middle school. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students Ability and patience to work interactively with students Skill in organization, time management, communication, and interpersonal skills Ability to deliver teaching instruction in accordance with improved curriculu