English Teacher, Grades 1-5

Position: Grade School English Teacher 

Status: Full Time Academic Year 

Reports To: Grade School Director 

Position Description: 

The German International School of Portland (GIS) has an opening for a full time English teaching position for the 24/25 school year. We are seeking a creative, kind, compassionate educator who will support our school's commitment to cultural diversity and academic and creative excellence. We invite all open-minded and authentically approachable educators to apply to join our growing school community!

Areas of Responsibility

Teaching 

• Prepare and develop lesson plans according to established curriculum standards. 

• Teach the curriculum using a variety of methods and media. 

• Organize and create a learning environment in which students can acquire knowledge and skills independently and as part of a team.

• Evaluate teaching methods and examine learning materials in order to improve teaching techniques.

• Reflect on learning environment and learning process of all students in order take affirmative action    

 when necessary. 

Educating 

• Identify intellectual, physical, social and emotional needs affecting the students’ success in school. 

• Ensure that teaching goals and objectives outlined in the school’s mission statement are met. 

• Maintain a standard of student behavior designed to encourage respect and minimize school and classroom interruptions. 

Advising 

• Communicate proactively with parents through established communication channels.  

• Participate in parent teacher conferences as needed in order to inform about learning progress and   

 competencies as well as curriculum content.  

• Advise students and parents in difficult academic, personal or social life situations and refers families to other supporting institutions in order to guarantee success in school as appropriate in coordination with classroom teacher and the Grade School Director.

Evaluating 

• Determine performance evaluation criteria/methods together with other staff members. 

• Apply performance evaluation methods appropriately.  

• Explain the system, criteria and timeframe of performance evaluation process to students and parents. 

• Analyze the performance evaluation results with co-teachers.  

School Development 

• Encourage and initiate continued school improvement in curriculum and teaching methods in cooperation with faculty. 

• Participate and contribute to the work in School Development Groups, as well as projects referring to the development of lesson plans and IB development. 

Participation in School Events 

• Actively and positively represent the school.  

• Attend professional conferences, seminars, and workshops in education. 

• Attend school functions as needed (may include occasional student events, open houses, or subject related activities).

• Share newly acquired knowledge with other staff members. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• MA in Elementary Education  

• Native English language skills is a must 

• German or Mandarin language skills desirable 

• Experience with the IB program a plus 

• Teaching certificate and a minimum two years of experience teaching at the elementary level 

• Should be familiar with a student-centered, inquiry-based classroom, willingness to collaborate with subject and classroom teachers for a holistic approach to learning 

• Ability to pass a criminal background check 

• Current certification in First Aid, CPR & Food Handler's License or willing to become certified prior to school year starting 

Working Conditions: 

• Ability to work occasional evening and/or weekends with advanced notice (as related to program & admission events) 

• Ability to lift 25 pounds 

*Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to michelle.bahr@gspdx.org.