Language Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The German Teacher is responsible for providing high-quality instruction in the German language and culture while creating an engaging, student-centered learning environment that promotes academic achievement, cultural awareness, global citizenship, and college and career readiness. The teacher will develop students' proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing German while incorporating authentic cultural experiences and differentiated instructional practices that meet the needs of a diverse urban student population.

The German Teacher will collaborate with colleagues, families, and administrators to support the mission, vision, and strategic goals of the Gary Community School Corporation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Curriculum

• Plan and deliver standards-based instruction aligned with the Indiana Academic Standards for World Languages.
• Develop students' proficiency in:
  • Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Cultural competency
• Utilize communicative teaching methods that maximize student use of the German language.
• Design engaging lessons that integrate vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, conversation, literature, history, geography, and culture.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the academic, linguistic, and social-emotional needs of all learners.
• Utilize technology to enhance language acquisition and student engagement.
• Incorporate authentic resources including media, literature, music, current events, and cultural experiences. 

Assessment

• Develop and administer formative and summative assessments.
• Monitor student progress through data analysis.
• Provide timely and meaningful feedback to students and families.
• Maintain accurate student records, grades, and attendance.
• Utilize assessment data to modify instruction and improve student outcomes. 

Classroom Environment

• Establish and maintain a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
• Promote mutual respect among students while encouraging risk-taking in language acquisition.
• Implement effective classroom management strategies consistent with district expectations.
• Maintain high behavioral and academic expectations for all students. 

Professional Responsibilities

• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
• Attend faculty meetings, professional development, and district training.
• Collaborate with general education teachers, special education staff, multilingual learner staff, counselors, and administrators.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress.
• Maintain confidentiality of student and employee information.
• Perform all duties in compliance with federal, state, and district policies. 

Student Support

• Foster appreciation for diverse cultures and global perspectives.
• Encourage student participation in language clubs, cultural events, exchanges, competitions, or enrichment opportunities when available.
• Support students in setting academic and personal learning goals.
• Identify students needing intervention or enrichment and collaborate with appropriate staff. 

Qualifications

Required

• Valid Indiana Teaching License with appropriate World Language (German) endorsement or eligibility for licensure.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in German, Foreign Language Education, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated proficiency in spoken and written German.
• Knowledge of second-language acquisition strategies.
• Ability to effectively teach students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds.
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to integrate instructional technology into daily instruction. 

Preferred

• Master's degree in German, Education, or related field.  
• Prior successful teaching experience in German at the middle or high school level.
• Experience working in an urban school district.
• Experience with project-based learning and culturally responsive teaching practices.
• Knowledge of proficiency-based language instruction (ACTFL). 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to:

• Inspire enthusiasm for learning the German language.
• Build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Differentiate instruction for diverse learners.
• Analyze assessment data to improve instruction.
• Integrate technology effectively.
• Manage multiple responsibilities while meeting deadlines.  
• Maintain professionalism under pressure.
• Support district initiatives focused on continuous improvement. 

Working Conditions

• Frequent standing, walking, and classroom instruction.
• Occasional lifting of instructional materials up to 25 pounds.
• Regular use of computers, interactive displays, and instructional technology.
• May supervise students during extracurricular activities, field trips, or school-sponsored events. 

Performance Responsibilities

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with:

• Indiana teacher evaluation requirements
• Gary Community School Corporation evaluation procedures  
• Board policies
• Collective Bargaining Agreement provisions 

Terms of Employment

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all required background checks, drug screening, and employment verification.
• Must maintain all required licensure throughout employment.
• Continued employment is subject to satisfactory performance and compliance with district policies and procedures. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Gary Community School Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Corporation does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal or state law in its educational programs, services, activities, admissions, or employment.