Job Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks , reflecting our dedication to their success. With over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color, we exemplify diversity, equity, and inclusion. We invest deeply in our educators , offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher will help provide and guide instruction for K-12 ESL students across several campuses at North Star Academy. The ESL teacher will work closely with the school-based Special Education Coordinators, as well as with teachers and leaders throughout the region, so this position requires the ability to travel between our Newark campuses. The ESL Teacher will report to the Associate Director of Special Education.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate a relentless drive to improve the minds, characters & lives of students both in and out of school
• Show unwavering commitment to urban youth achieving greatness
• Provide in-class support in the general education setting and small group instruction to ESL students
• Provide support and feedback to content teachers on sheltered instruction strategies as needed
• Attend and participate IEP meetings for English Learners as directed by the Associate Director of Special Education
• Follow ESSA guidelines for identification, instruction, assessment, and exiting ESL students
• Create a positive, structured learning environment to ensure that students observe the school’s core values, high expectations, and strict code of conduct
• Implement curricula and activities to meet academic and language acquisition standards aligned to the WIDA English language development standards
• Complete training for administering WIDA assessments used to identify and determine continued eligibility for ESL services
• Provide consistent rewards and/or consequences for student behavior to ensure that students observe the school’s core values, high expectations, and strict code of conduct
• Be accountable for students’ mastery of academic and language acquisition standards
• Exhibit resilience to persevere and turn challenges into opportunities
• Focus constantly on student learning, thinking critically and strategically to respond to student learning needs
• Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues
• Engage families in their children’s education
• Commit to continual professional growth

Qualifications

• Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom
• Flexibility to adapt to the needs of our students
• Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for academic subjects
• Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player
• Bachelor’s degree is required; Master’s degree is preferred; and
• Minimum of two years teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred
• By the time that employment begins, candidates must have received a Bachelor's degree from a College or University. For teaching roles in New Jersey, the candidates must have earned a cumulative 2.75 GPA (for candidates graduating before September 1, 2016) or 3.0 (for candidates graduating on or after September 1, 2016).
• Valid NJ English as a Second Language State Certification is required
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $60,000 to $85,000.

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full-time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full-time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $60,000. 

* The range above represents our compensation scales for the 2025-2026 school year. If starting prior to June 30th, 2025, compensation will be based on a slightly lower range, reflective of current compensation scales. New hires who fall into this category will see an increase in their compensation starting on July 1st, 2025 for next school year which aligns to the scale above.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer). 
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • New Jersey Pension program
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE .

Uncommon believes in the importance of being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization that enables our students and staff to thrive. We are committed to building an exceptional team that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. We also strive to ensure an inclusive community by creating a space for meaningful dialogue about issues of race and identity for our staff and students. As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.

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