Elementary Classroom Teacher

Summary

Under direction, to teach and instruct pupils in Grades Pre-K-5 or a combination of the same in academic, social, behavioral, and other related skill areas; to plan, develop, organize, and conduct a comprehensive education program for early childhood and primary grade pupils; to assist pupils, parents, and others in aiding pupils in adjusting to a structured educational environment; and to do other related functions as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This position classification requires subject matter expertise commonly associated with teaching and instruction. Directly related teaching and instruction experience is suggested to perform problem analysis using prescribed principles, methods and concepts. The position classification performs decision analysis and makes decisions of considerable consequence, in determining how best to aid students in the learning process. The functional role of this position classification requires the application and interpretation of data, facts, procedures, and policies. The incumbent meets frequently with school administrators, teachers, and other staff to communicate information, data, and alternative problem solutions.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Teach and instruct pupils in reading, language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, art, health, physical education, and music in a classroom setting.
• Utilize an adopted course of study, program guides, and a variety of other materials in developing lesson planning, and in the development of teaching outlines.
• Pursue a variety of methodology in teaching and instructing pupils, including instruction, demonstration, lecture, activity participation, and using specialized educational equipment, materials, and aids.
• Teach and instruct pupils in citizenship and other subject matter specified by legal mandates, District policies and regulations.
• Prepare, develop and utilize a variety of instructional materials appropriate for the instructional level of pupils within a wide range of mental, physical, and emotional maturity.
• Review, analyze, and evaluate the history, background, and assessment of pupils in designing an educational program to meet specific individual educational needs.
• Provide individual and group instruction designed to enhance pupil mental, social, and emotional growth.
• Establish and maintain appropriate standards of student behavior, utilizing a variety of behavior management strategies and techniques, including behavior modification, reinforcement and other positive behavior shaping processes.
• Review, analyze, and evaluate academic and social growth, and record appropriate analyses and perceptions.
• Prepare progress reports to parents and others concerning pupil academic and social growth.
• Administer, score, and record the results of a variety of criterion referenced and standardized tests in evaluating pupil progress.
• Counsel, confer, and communicate with parents, regarding pupil progress and the interpretation of the educational program.
• Assist and cooperate with school and District personnel in assessing pupil needs, in the development of alternative solutions to individual educational planning, and in the adapting of curriculum offerings to meet individual educational needs.
• Plan, create, and maintain an effective learning environment through the utilization of functional and aesthetically attractive displays, exhibits, bulletin boards, and interest, learning, and activity centers.
• Select and requisition appropriate educational supplies, materials, books, equipment, and learning aids.
• Perform non-instructional duties, including curriculum and instruction development, student supervision, and advisory and consultation activities.
• Conduct a variety of learning experiences to effectively utilize time available for instruction.
  
  

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

Principles, theories, methods, techniques, and strategies pertaining to teaching and instruction of primary grade pupils;

Child growth and development and behavior characteristics of the elementary grade child

Educational curriculum and instructional goals and objectives, and the educational trends and research findings pertaining to early childhood educational programming;

Behavior management and behavior shaping strategies, techniques and methods, and conflict resolution procedures;

Socio-economic and cultural background differences of the general school population.

Ability To

Plan, organize, develop, and conduct a comprehensive teaching and instruction program for pupils in Grades PreK-5 or a combination of these grades;

Provide effective learning experiences for pupils from a wide range of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds and with varying mental, social, and emotional levels;

Effectively assess the educational needs of pupils, and design, develop, and implement sound individualized educational plans;

Provide an attractive, inviting and stimulating learning environment;

Perform research and development activities pertaining to Grades PreK-5 curriculum and instruction programs, pilot projects, and innovative programs designed to enhance pupil educational opportunities and experiences.

Experience And Education

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and skill is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be:

Experience

Successful completion of student teaching at a recognized college or university or two years of regular full time elementary classroom teaching experience, preferably including one year in a primary grade setting.

Education

Possession of a Baccalaureate or higher degree with emphasis in elementary education, instructional technology, and a subject matter field commonly taught in the elementary grades, or closely related field areas.

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT

Possession of certification as required by Kentucky law.