Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science (HUMS) seeks a passionate, skilled, and equity-driven 6th Grade English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher to join our academic community. The successful candidate will deliver rigorous, culturally responsive literacy instruction that prepares students for advanced coursework in a STEM-focused environment. This position plays a central role in developing students’ capacity to read, analyze, write, speak, and think critically across disciplines. HUMS is a laboratory school affiliated with Howard University, one of the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our school community is rooted in academic excellence, a commitment to social justice, and the cultivation of the whole child. We seek an educator who understands the unique promise of our students and is prepared to meet them with high expectations and deep support. ABOUT HUMS Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science provides a rigorous, college-preparatory middle school experience grounded in STEM education and the liberal arts. Our curriculum integrates mathematics, science, technology, and the humanities to develop well-rounded, analytically sharp, and socially conscious scholars. As a Howard University laboratory school, HUMS benefits from close ties to university faculty, research opportunities, and a proud tradition of Black academic excellence. CORE RESPONSIBILITIES Instruction & Curriculum • Design and deliver engaging, standards-aligned ELA lessons for 6th grade students using DC Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts • Teach reading comprehension, literary analysis, narrative and informational writing, grammar, vocabulary, and oral communication skills • Integrate diverse texts — including works by and about people of African descent and other historically underrepresented groups — to reflect the experiences of all learners • Connect ELA instruction to STEM content areas through cross-disciplinary reading and writing tasks (e.g., science reports, mathematical argumentation, research projects) • Implement a balanced literacy approach including whole-class, small-group, and independent reading and writing experiences • Design and administer project-based learning opportunities that develop critical thinking and real-world communication skills Assessment & Data Use • Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress and inform instructional decisions • Analyze student performance data to identify learning gaps and adjust instruction accordingly • Provide timely, specific, and constructive written and verbal feedback on student work • Maintain accurate records of student attendance, grades, and learning progress • Prepare students for standardized assessments, including the DC PARCC/CAPE assessments Classroom Culture & Student Development • Establish and maintain a structured, inclusive, and affirming classroom environment where all students feel seen, respected, and capable • Build strong, trust-based relationships with students that support academic risk-taking and a growth mindset • Implement restorative practices and culturally responsive classroom management strategies • Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including English Language Learners (ELL), students with IEPs/504 plans, and advanced learners Family & Community Engagement • Communicate proactively and regularly with families regarding student progress, concerns, and celebrations • Participate in parent-teacher conferences, Back-to-School Night, and school-wide family engagement events • Serve as a collaborative partner with families in supporting the academic and personal growth of each student Professional Collaboration & Growth • Collaborate with ELA department colleagues and cross-disciplinary teams to develop and refine curriculum • Participate actively in professional learning communities (PLCs), departmental meetings, and school-wide professional development • Engage in ongoing reflection and continuous improvement of instructional practice • Support the mission and values of HUMS as a contributing member of the school community • Perform additional duties as assigned by school leadership QUALIFICATIONS Required • Bachelor’s degree in English, English Education, Literacy, Communications, or a closely related field • Valid DC Teaching License OR eligibility to obtain licensure (DCPS reciprocity accepted; must obtain DC licensure within one year of hire) • Demonstrated knowledge of Common Core State Standards for ELA, Grades 6–8 • Experience with differentiated instruction and culturally responsive pedagogy • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Commitment to the academic success and holistic development of all students • Minimum of two (2) years of successful middle school ELA teaching experience • Not require but Preferred • Master’s degree in Education, English, or Literacy • Experience teaching in an urban, Title I, or HBCU-affiliated school setting • Familiarity with IB and cross-disciplinary instructional design • Experience with ELL populations and/or students with IEPs • Training in culturally sustaining pedagogy, antiracist education, or equity-focused instructional frameworks • Proficiency with educational technology platforms (e.g., Google Classroom, Nearpod, Newsela, CommonLit) KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & DISPOSITIONS • Deep content knowledge of ELA: literary analysis, rhetoric, grammar, composition, and reading strategies • Familiarity with reading intervention frameworks (e.g., Fountas & Pinnell, Reading Recovery, or Wilson) is a plus • Ability to build authentic, affirming relationships with adolescents from diverse backgrounds • Strong organizational and classroom management skills • A collaborative spirit and willingness to give and receive constructive feedback • Belief in the intellectual capacity and limitless potential of Black and Brown students • A passion for literacy as a tool for liberation, critical thinking, and self-expression Equal Opportunity Employer Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

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