Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Training & development

Position Title: Elementary & Middle School English Teacher & Head of English Department
Immediate Supervisor: Head of School
Status: Full-Time, Academic Year
Classification: Exempt

Job Summary
This is a dual role combining 85% classroom teaching with 15% academic leadership as Head of the English Department. The English Department plays a central role in GISCs mission, preparing students for academic success in both German and English. The Department Head works collaboratively with the IB Coordinators to oversee curriculum, assessment, instructional quality, and the ELL Become Bilingual Program. The Head of English combines deep subject knowledge with strong leadership, administrative skills, and the ability to mentor colleagues, ensuring a coherent and high-quality English curriculum across all grade levels.

Essential Responsibilities
Teaching (approx. 85%)

• Teach English Language Arts, covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• Plan, initiate, and guide units of study aligned with Common Core State Standards and IB (PYP/MYP) practices.
• Differentiate instruction for a diverse student body, including ELL students and those with specific learning needs.
• Use a range of assessment tools (including MAP data) to track progress, identify needs, and adjust instruction.
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment where all students feel recognized and valued.
• Actively maintain high standards of student conduct in all learning environments.
• Liaise with colleagues, the Head of School, and the Deputy Head of School regarding academic matters.

Department Head Leadership (approx. 15%)

• Lead and mentor the English Department.
• Supervise and coordinate the ELL Become Bilingual Program.
• Oversee curriculum development, ensuring vertical and horizontal alignment from Kindergarten through Grade 8 (with future plans to expand through High School).
• Integrate IB PYP (accredited in 2017) and MYP (introduced in 2023-2024) practices into departmental planning.
• Analyze Fall and Spring MAP data to address curricular gaps and inform instructional planning.
• Oversee department-wide use of learning apps and digital tools (e.g., IXL, Reading A-Z).
• Develop and maintain assessment guidelines consistent with GISCs Assessment Policy.
• Maintain and update the departments scope and sequence for English skills.
• Organize book orders, manage inventory, and coordinate teaching material needs.
• Keep and update the department's information file.
• Lead regular departmental meetings focused on curriculum, assessment, and student learning.
• Promote professional growth through open dialogue, peer observations, and targeted CPD.
• Organize and occasionally lead parent information sessions about the English program.
• Support the schools strategic initiatives and communicate department needs to leadership.

Qualifications
Required

• Bachelors degree in English, Education, or related field.
• Valid teaching certification/license (or eligibility) for Elementary and/or Middle School English.
• Minimum 3 years teaching experience, preferably across both Elementary and Middle School.
• Experience with English Language Learners.
• Strong understanding of Common Core State Standards.
• Demonstrated curriculum leadership and mentoring ability.

Preferred

• Masters degree in Education, English, or related field.
• IB PYP and/or MYP teaching experience.
• Previous department head or team leadership role.
• German language skills.
• Experience in a bilingual or international school setting.

Skills & Attributes

• Commitment to high academic standards and student-centered learning.
• Strong interpersonal skills for working with students, colleagues, and parents.
• Excellent organizational, administrative, and communication abilities.
• Intercultural competence and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and openness to innovative teaching practices.

Work Environment

• In-person teaching in a collaborative, multilingual school environment.
• Routine use of educational technology, interactive whiteboards, and digital learning tools.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and lift/move classroom materials (up to 30 lbs regularly, occasionally up to 50 lbs).
• Smoke- and drug-free workplace.