Upper School American Sign Language Teacher

New Roads School provides an inspired college preparatory program from which an authentically diverse student population, mirroring the rich diversity of Los Angeles, develops a personal dedication to learning, a respect for independent thinking, an expanding curiosity about the world and its people, and a commitment to the common good. We are a co-educational, non-denominational K-12 school of approximately 550 students. We pride ourselves on our small class sizes, passionate educators, and dedication to relational, embodied learning. 

The Upper School ASL (American Sign Language) Teacher is a professional, experienced and passionate educator with teaching experience in the American Sign language acquisition at the upper school level (grades 9-12).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• An understanding of, and commitment to, New Roads’ philosophy and approach to education.
• A firm commitment to access, equity, and inclusion and working with a diverse community.
• Plan and teach American Sign Language (ASL) classes (levels 1-4) to US students.
• Create engaging lesson plans, assessing student progress, and fostering a positive learning environment to ensure students develop effective communication skills in ASL.
• Teach ASL vocabulary, grammar rules, facial expressions, visual-gestural communication, ASL/Deaf Folklore and Literature, ASL Linguistics, Deaf Culture, numbers and fingerspelling, and non-manual markers through interactive activities, demonstrations, and practice sessions.
• Regularly assess student progress through quizzes, tests, presentations, and performance-based assessments to track mastery of ASL concepts.
• Collaborate with the administration and fellow teachers to promote awareness of ASL and Deaf culture within the school community, possibly through events, guest speakers, and outreach programs. 
• Demonstrated understanding of theories related to upper school school (grades 9-12) students’ developmental milestones and socio-emotional lives
• Experience and interest in differentiated instruction, project-based, constructivist approach to teaching and learning, as well as portfolio, authentic, and performance assessment.
• Solid organization, communication and writing skills - with excellent sign language communication skills.
• Excellent classroom management skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Provide students with opportunities and support in the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills, the exploration of ideas, and the development of leadership qualities.
• Maintain and communicate high expectations and boundaries in a consistently kind, clear and respectful manner.
• Maintain a climate of trust and mutual respect, which encourages students to risk asking questions, expressing their opinions, and making mistakes necessary to the learning process.
• Ensure students are engaged through activities and technology that accommodate various learning styles, personality styles, behavioral styles, and the need for physical movement.
• Differentiate for individual students based on their unique learning needs so all students are appropriately engaged and challenged.
• Incorporate multiple techniques of instruction, including discussion, hands-on activities, independent writing assignments, metacognitive reflection, and the use of all appropriate visual aids.
• Provide ongoing and timely feedback to students on their progress towards meeting big goals by frequently checking for understanding via formative assessment, as well as summative assessment.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of students' progress and development.
• Communicate respectfully and thoughtfully with parents/ guardians, remaining sensitive to different families’ cultures, values and needs.
• Show a commitment to supporting the holistic development of the student, both inside and outside of the class.
• Ideal candidates will be excited by becoming part of our vibrant school community, broadly engaging with students and colleagues, and attending events outside their particular field of study.
• Participate in department, school, and parent meetings.
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Bachelor's degree in Deaf Studies, Linguistics, Education, or related field is required.

Fluent in American Sign Language with a strong understanding of grammar and cultural nuance is required.

American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) Certification is preferred.

Minimum three years teaching experience is required.

Strong computer skills, especially with GSuite (gmail, google calendar, google docs, etc.) is required; experience with blackbaud LMS is a plus. 

Passion for teaching, and understanding of and respect for students’ individual learning styles. 

Passion for personal and professional growth as an Upper School teacher.