Teacher - Rhetoric & Logic/Speech & Debate (6-8)

Description

The Middle School Rhetoric & Logic Teacher delivers instruction in rhetoric, logic, argumentation, and critical thinking aligned with Core Knowledge/Classical curriculum standards. This role cultivates analytical reasoning, effective communication, and intellectual curiosity in students while fostering a positive, inclusive, and academically rigorous classroom environment. The teacher contributes to the school’s mission of preparing students to think independently, reason critically, and communicate persuasively.

Compensation and Benefits

• Full-time, Exempt
• Salary based on education and experience
• Eligible for health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid leave benefits

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, English, Philosophy, or related field
• Strong knowledge of rhetoric, logic, critical thinking, and argumentation principles
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating classroom environment
• Commitment to fostering critical thinking and analytical reasoning in students

Preferred

• Advanced degree in Education, English, Philosophy, or related field
• Experience working with middle school students

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver lesson plans teaching rhetoric, logic, argumentation, and critical thinking.
• Foster a classroom environment that encourages open dialogue, respectful debate, and analytical reasoning.
• Employ a variety of instructional methods, materials, and technology to engage students and address cognitive, social, and emotional development.
• Assess student learning regularly and provide timely, constructive feedback to support growth in reasoning and communication skills.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, grades, and student progress in the student information system.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences to maintain effective school-home communication.
• Collaborate with colleagues to integrate interdisciplinary approaches and enhance curriculum.
• Prepare lesson plans, assignments, assessments, and substitute materials in advance.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-managed classroom conducive to focused learning.
• Uphold classroom discipline and promote a safe, respectful, and academically rigorous environment.
• Participate in professional development, workshops, and staff meetings to remain current in pedagogy and classical education practices.
• Represent the school professionally to students, parents, colleagues, and the broader community.
• Support school operations and perform additional duties as assigned, including supervision during carpool, lunch, or recess.
• Follow school policies and procedures, including grievance and emergency protocols outlined in the Employee Handbook.

Essential Job Functions

• Classroom instruction and student engagement
• Assessment, record-keeping, and reporting
• Lesson planning and curriculum development
• Collaboration, professional development, and school-wide initiatives
• Administrative duties and supervisory responsibilities

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Competencies

• Strong planning, organizational, and classroom management skills
• Ability to inspire analytical thinking, reasoned argument, and effective communication
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities with frequent interruptions
• Collaborative and professional approach with colleagues, students, and parents
• Ability to work independently while contributing to school-wide initiatives
• Proficiency with technology and software applications, including Google Suite, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and student data management systems

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Classroom and school environment
• Frequent interaction with middle school students
• Occasional lifting of instructional materials
• Frequent standing, walking, and active engagement with students

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to include all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required of the employee. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice.