Spanish as a Second Language (Dual Program)

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:

The Spanish as a Second Language teacher responsibilities are to provide specialized instruction in designated schools and teaches Spanish as a Second Language to Dual Language Education (DLE) Learners for the purposes of developing the students’ ability to effectively perform courses of study in Spanish and acquire the Spanish language. This position is responsive to student and educator needs as identified by data and goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

• Strong background, knowledge, and understanding of Spanish instruction and second language acquisition
• Ability to collaborate with teachers and other staff
• Demonstrated track record in raising student achievement
• Fluent in Spanish
• Bachelor’s Degree, Advanced educational preparation in the area of Spanish strongly preferred.
• Familiarity and competency with the analysis of educational data
• Familiarity and experience with Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) model
• Appropriate MA DESE Licensure and endorsements (detailed below)

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Massachusetts Teaching Spanish teaching license, SEI endorsement or ability to secure such endorsement within one school year, Bilingual Education endorsement or ability to secure such endorsement within one school year, experience supporting bilingual/bicultural students and students with special needs strongly preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides individualized and small group Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) instruction to Dual Language Education Learners
• Plans, develops, and implements SSL instruction and Massachusetts Spanish language proficiency standards (WIDA)
• Provides effective SSL classroom techniques and instruction to enhance second language acquisition and to gain academic language
• Demonstrates effective techniques of classroom management, behavioral interventions, and communication to engage students
• Demonstrates cultural proficiency and use of effective and cultural relevant instructional practices
• Collaborates and communicates with the DLE students’ content teacher(s) to align instruction. Support to DLE students’ Spanish language acquisition and classroom instructional needs (instructions, academic vocabulary, reading, writing support, and clarification of assignments)
• Assists with the oversight and delivery of benchmark district assessments and administers screening tests for initial identification of DLE students
• Prepares for and assists with organization of DLE students’ meetings for monitoring SSL services
• Attends professional Spanish Language Acquisition meetings as well as serves on building or district committees
• Understands and complies with the state policies, rules, and regulations regarding Dual Language Education Learners
• Commitment to participate as an active member of a high performing team dedicated to continually improving practice and raising student achievement
• Contribute to the culture of high expectations for all staff, students, and community members
• Contribute to District-wide initiatives to engage parents and family members as active members of students’ educational teams, including providing support and coaching to family members on techniques for improving second language acquisition at home
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned by the Principal or designee

Qualifications:

Licensed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

A demonstrated belief that each and every student can achieve at high levels.

A demonstrated dedication to lifelong learning, reflection, and continued personal and professional growth.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Outstanding interpersonal and collaborative teamwork skills.

Terms of Employment:

Reports to: School Principal

Rate: In accordance with the Unit A contract

The New Bedford Public Schools do not discriminate on account of age, race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, ancestry, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, genetics, or disability that does not prohibit performance of essential job functions in employment for potential employees. New Bedford Public Schools encourages people with multilingual skills, particularly in Cape Verdean Creole, Portuguese and/or Spanish, to apply. Every available opportunity will be taken in order to assure that each applicant is selected on the basis of qualifications, merit and ability.