Upper School English

General Expectations:

In performing assigned tasks and duties, all employees of Dexter Southfield are expected to demonstrate quality work and meet deadlines (with or without direct supervision); interact professionally with students, parents, faculty, staff, and others; work effectively as individual and team contributors on all assignments; and communicate and coordinate efforts with colleagues and other stakeholders that align with the School’s mission and values. Those working in teaching roles are also expected to demonstrate effective classroom management skills and deliver quality academic instruction to ensure student success. 

 

Essential Job Functions:

•    Develop and implement engaging and age-appropriate lesson plans that meet curriculum standards
•    Create and present lesson plans that effectively align with core competencies and School standards 
•    Use a variety of teaching strategies to accommodate different learning styles and abilities
•    Foster critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning 
•    Engage students in classroom discussions and activities that promote mindful, independent, and collaborative problem-solving skills
•    Develop assignments and homework through which subject area growth and proficiency are measured, and prompt feedback is       provided to students
•    Issue progress reports and timely updates consistent with School policies and standards, including quarterly report cards and parent-teacher conferences
•    Manage the classroom and maintain an environment that ensures students demonstrate appropriate behavior, manners, study habits, and academic progress
•    Prepare students for standardized testing, including post-secondary entry exams 
•    Provide timely and effective feedback to students, parents, faculty, and administration regarding student progress, needs, and concerns (academic, social, emotional)
•    Research curriculum and instruction opportunities and develop activities to enhance student educational experiences
•    Fully engage in School-sponsored professional development programs and department meetings
•    Remain knowledgeable of instructional and curriculum trends, goals, and objectives 
•    Coach and/or advise at least two extracurricular sports, clubs, or activities 
•    Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications:

•    Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred in subject area
•    Proficiency in subject matter and subject-specific training and instruction
•    At least three years of full-time experience working with upper school students is preferred
•    Proficiency in developing, delivering, and assessing comprehensive lesson plans and instruction
•    Effective communication skills (oral and written) to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and parents
•    Demonstrated knowledge in teaching principles, theories, methods, behavior management techniques, and conflict resolution strategies
•    Understanding of the unique academic, social, and behavioral characteristics of this age group
•    Ability to create and contribute to an engaging and inclusive learning environment and workplace
•    History of continued education or professional development
•    Ability to be flexible, effectively manage stress, and adapt to changing work priorities and assignments 
•    Willingness to work as a team player and individual contributor
•    Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines with maximum precision and minimal supervision
•    Excellent communication skills (oral, written, non-verbal) to build trust among constituencies
•    Commitment to actively promote and contribute to an engaging and inclusive workplace 
•    Ability to be flexible, effectively manage stress, and adapt to changing work priorities in a fast-paced work environment

 

Requirements:

This job requires one to lift, carry, push, and/or pull materials and equipment weighing up to 20 pounds, as well as the ability to stand, sit, walk, and effectively use extremities to reach, hold, touch, push, pull, lift, and carry. Incumbent must also effectively communicate (oral, written, non-verbal) with others. This job typically requires 35% sitting, 35% walking, and 30% standing and is performed under minimal temperature variations in a generally hazard-free environment. Depending on the classroom assignment, this role may require one to relocate classrooms throughout the day and require ascending and descending stairs. Incumbents will occasionally be required to work extended hours, including after school, during evenings, and on weekends. 

Dexter Southfield’s 36-acre campus is composed of several buildings, playing fields, and outdoor learning spaces, which are accessible via internal and external walkways, stairs, nature paths, hills, and uneven terrain. This position requires one to transfer between these areas in all weather conditions. 

All employees of Dexter Southfield are required to verify employment eligibility and successfully complete CORI, SORI, and fingerprint-based background checks as a condition of employment.

Independent college-preparatory day school for grades Pre-K-12.