5th Grade ELA Teacher

Fifth Grade English Language Arts Teacher

REACH Academy Charter School

Buffalo, New York

Inspire a Love of Reading. Build Strong Writers. Change Lives.

REACH Academy Charter School is seeking a passionate, student-centered Fifth Grade English Language Arts Teacher who believes every child can achieve at high levels. We are looking for an educator who is committed to providing engaging, rigorous instruction while building meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

At REACH Academy, we believe that great teachers deserve exceptional support. We foster a collaborative, family-like culture where teachers are valued, celebrated, and provided with the resources they need to be successful.

Why Join REACH Academy?

Competitive Salary

REACH Academy offers a competitive salary schedule that meets or exceeds many local school districts.

• Certified teachers begin at $45,000 with no prior teaching experience.
• Uncertified teachers begin at $40,000.
• Salary placement is based on verified years of teaching experience and certification.
• Maximum salary step: $65,830.

Comprehensive Benefits

• REACH pays 80% of Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance premiums.
• REACH pays 100% of Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance.
• Participation in the New York State Teachers' Retirement System (NYSTRS).
• Optional 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan.

Work-Life Balance

• School day: 6:50 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
• One afternoon each week until 4:00 p.m. for collaborative planning and professional development.
• Job-sharing opportunities available for expecting mothers when operationally feasible.

A Culture You'll Love

At REACH, our staff is more than a team—we're a family.

We regularly celebrate our employees through

• Staff appreciation events
• Catered lunches and surprise treats
• Recognition programs
• Collaborative team-building activities
• School-funded classroom and student supplies
• Ongoing instructional coaching and professional development

Position Summary

The Fifth Grade English Language Arts Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction that develops students into confident readers, writers, and critical thinkers. The teacher will utilize the REACH curriculum, implement best instructional practices, and create a classroom culture where all scholars are challenged, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Essential Responsibilities

The successful candidate will

• Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned English Language Arts instruction.
• Utilize whole-group, small-group, and differentiated instructional strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Foster a classroom culture that promotes academic excellence, collaboration, and respect.
• Implement the REACH curriculum and instructional framework with fidelity.
• Assess student learning regularly and use data to inform instructional decisions.
• Maintain accurate records of student achievement and progress.
• Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding student growth and academic performance.
• Establish and maintain effective classroom management procedures that ensure a safe and productive learning environment.
• Submit lesson plans, unit plans, and required documentation in a timely manner.
• Participate actively in weekly team planning meetings, coaching sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Implement instructional feedback from coaches and administrators.
• Reflect on instructional practices and continuously seek opportunities for professional growth.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Head of School.

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

Successful candidates will demonstrate

• A strong belief that every child can achieve at high academic levels.
• A passion for urban education and serving diverse student populations.
• Knowledge of the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards for English Language Arts.
• Excellent classroom management and organizational skills.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• A commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive teaching.
• The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, families, and school leaders.
• Flexibility, resilience, and openness to coaching and continuous improvement.
• Excellent attendance, professionalism, and ethical standards.

Education & Certification

Candidates must possess

• A Bachelor's Degree in Education or a related field (Master's Degree preferred).
• A valid New York State Teaching Certificate appropriate for the position or eligibility for certification through reciprocity.
• Demonstrated success in raising student achievement is preferred.

What Makes a REACH Teacher?

Our teachers are

• Passionate educators who believe every child can succeed.
• Lifelong learners who embrace coaching and professional growth.
• Team players who collaborate to improve student outcomes.
• Reflective practitioners who use data to drive instruction.
• Positive role models who build strong relationships with scholars and families.
• Dedicated professionals who uphold the mission and values of REACH Academy Charter School every day.

Equal Employment Opportunity

REACH Academy Charter School is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees.

Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, disability, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Job Attachment View Attachment

Salary: From 40000.00

Salary: To 65830.00

Salary Competitive Y

Position Status Full time

Start Date 08/17/2026

Required Certification Type Childhood Education Grades 1-6 {3014}

Contact Person's Name Amie Caster

Contact Person's Title Director of Human Resources

Contact Person's Phone 716-248-1485

Contact Person's Email acaster@reachacs.org