Secondary English TeacherAbout American Youth Academy
American Youth Academy (AYA) is an Islamic-based private school located in Tampa, Florida, one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. Established in 1992, AYA currently serves students from Pre-K through 12th grade and continues to grow each year.
At AYA, our mission is to provide students with an environment that promotes academic excellence, character development, and preparation for future success. As enrollment continues to grow, we are seeking dedicated educators who are passionate about teaching, committed to student success, and aligned with our Islamic values to join our team.
Position Summary
The Secondary English Teacher is responsible for providing an engaging, rigorous, and supportive instructional program for assigned students in English Language Arts. Under the direction of the Secondary Principal and Head of School, the teacher will develop and implement lessons aligned with state standards and American Youth Academy’s academic expectations.
The ideal candidate will inspire students to develop strong reading, writing, communication, and critical-thinking skills while fostering a love of literature and lifelong learning. The teacher will create a positive, safe, and Islamic learning environment that supports the academic and personal growth of every student.
Reports To: Secondary Principal
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- Degree in English, Literature, Education, or a related field preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in English Language Arts instruction.
- Prior teaching experience in a public or private school setting preferred.
- Valid state teaching certification or credentials preferred, when applicable.
- Ability to pass a criminal background investigation.
- Demonstrated ability to engage and motivate secondary students.
- Strong classroom management, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with students, families, colleagues, and administration.
- Other qualifications as determined appropriate by the Head of School.
Essential Functions and ResponsibilitiesInstructional Responsibilities
The teacher will
- Develop and implement engaging English Language Arts lessons aligned with state standards and AYA curriculum expectations.
- Teach assigned secondary English courses, including literature, composition, grammar, and writing skills.
- Create lessons that develop students’ reading comprehension, analytical thinking, written communication, and verbal expression.
- Guide students in analyzing literature, evaluating texts, and developing evidence-based arguments.
- Teach students effective writing strategies, including organization, revision, editing, and research skills.
- Prepare students for required assessments through effective instruction and targeted support.
- Evaluate student progress through assignments, assessments, projects, and classroom observations.
- Use student data to make informed instructional decisions.
- Provide differentiated instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Incorporate technology and instructional resources to enhance student learning.
- Maintain current knowledge of English Language Arts standards, curriculum, and best practices.
- Collaborate with other teachers to support interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
Classroom Management and Student Engagement
The teacher will
- Establish clear classroom expectations, procedures, and routines.
- Maintain a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment.
- Build positive relationships with students through consistency, encouragement, and professionalism.
- Engage students through meaningful discussions, activities, writing opportunities, and collaborative learning.
- Encourage students to think critically, express ideas effectively, and develop confidence in their communication skills.
- Provide constructive feedback that supports student improvement.
- Support students’ academic, emotional, intellectual, and social development.
Planning and Preparation
The teacher will
- Develop organized lesson plans with clear objectives and assessments.
- Select instructional strategies that promote student understanding and engagement.
- Prepare materials and resources that support effective instruction.
- Plan lessons that challenge students while providing appropriate support.
- Differentiate instruction for students with varying learning needs, including students requiring additional English or Arabic language support.
- Provide opportunities for students to develop higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills.
Professional Responsibilities, Collaboration and Professionalism
The teacher will
- Maintain positive and professional relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and administration.
- Accept feedback and coaching from administrative staff.
- Participate in professional development opportunities.
- Share instructional strategies and collaborate with fellow educators.
- Seek continued professional growth and improvement.
- Contribute to a positive, respectful, and collaborative school culture.
School Responsibilities
The teacher will
- Follow all school policies, procedures, and expectations.
- Support the mission, vision, and Islamic values of American Youth Academy.
- Participate in school initiatives, committees, clubs, and activities as assigned.
- Complete assigned duties and responsibilities in a timely manner.
- Maintain classroom resources, textbooks, and materials appropriately.
- Submit lesson plans, grades, and required documentation according to school deadlines.
Record Keeping
The teacher will
- Maintain accurate student records and grades according to school guidelines.
- Update student progress records promptly.
- Maintain organized documentation of student learning.
- Submit requested documents and reports in a timely manner.
Mission Alignment
AYA teachers are expected to
- Demonstrate commitment to the school’s mission and vision.
- Maintain a positive, solution-based approach to challenges.
- Believe that all students have strengths and the ability to succeed.
- Maintain high expectations for all students.
- Communicate consistently with students and families regarding academic progress and student needs.
- Participate as active members of a professional community built on respect, trust, collaboration, flexibility, and continuous improvement.
- Demonstrate a “whatever-it-takes” mindset to support student success.
Required Skills and Abilities
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Strong writing, editing, and communication skills.
- Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities.
- Ability to analyze student performance and adjust instruction accordingly.
- Ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, staff, and administration.
- Ability to maintain effective classroom management.
- Ability to create engaging and differentiated learning experiences.
- Ability to evaluate student work and provide meaningful feedback.
- Demonstrated willingness to be accountable for student learning outcomes.
Physical Requirements
Teachers spend the majority of the day standing, walking, and sitting within the classroom environment. Responsibilities may include:
- Moving throughout the classroom and assisting students.
- Standing for extended periods while teaching.
- Bending, kneeling, squatting, and reaching as needed.
- Adjusting classroom furniture and learning spaces.
- Lifting and carrying classroom materials weighing up to approximately 25 pounds.
Work Environment
This position works primarily in classroom settings and may occasionally involve outdoor activities. The environment may include exposure to varying temperatures, classroom noise, and common school-related conditions.
Disclaimer
The preceding job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or requirements. Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Head of School or administration as needed.
Acknowledgment
I acknowledge that I have read and understand the responsibilities and expectations outlined in this job description. I agree to fulfill the duties and responsibilities required of this position.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $47,500.00 per year
Benefits
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education
Experience
- Teaching: 2 years (Required)
Ability to Relocate
- Tampa, FL 33617: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
