Middle School ELA and Social Studies Teacher FY27 Academic Year

Orton Academy•Colorado Springs, CO

About The Position

Middle School ELA & Social Studies Teacher Job Description About Orton Academy At Orton Academy, we believe in unlocking every student's potential by providing structured, research-based interventions tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. Orton Academy is a groundbreaking 2-8 charter school authorized by D11 in Colorado Springs, CO. We are a regional leader in dyslexia education, utilizing research-based instruction to create personalized learning experiences that enable students to overcome learning challenges. Our curriculum is rooted in the science of reading and structured literacy, ensuring that students receive the targeted support they need to succeed. At Orton Academy, we don't just teach-we empower. Our students develop the skills, confidence, and strategies to navigate their academic journeys and beyond. Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment, we are redefining what's possible for students with dyslexia. Learn more about our unique approach at https://ortonk8.org Philosophy and Vision Alignment Our Why : We exist to ensure that students with dyslexia have access to high-quality, research-based instruction tailored to their unique learning needs. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential. We are committed to instilling hope, igniting purpose, and empowering students to succeed academically and personally. Our How : By implementing evidence-based instructional methods that prioritize the science of reading. By fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and student-centered learning environment. By equipping students with self-advocacy skills and strategies that empower them for lifelong success. Our What : We are a community of educators, students, and families committed to breaking down learning barriers and championing student success. We provide specialized instruction tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, ensuring they develop essential literacy and academic skills. We ensure that every graduate leaves Orton Academy with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to excel in their future pursuits. Position Overview We are seeking a passionate and skilled Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) and Social Studies Teacher to join our team. This educator will play a key role in fostering a cohesive learning culture where literacy is embedded across all content areas. The ideal candidate has a strong background in Special Education and is committed to supporting students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences through structured, explicit instruction and a cohesive, school-wide curriculum.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Education, English, History, Special Education, or related field (Master's preferred)
Valid teaching license (or ability to obtain)
Special Education endorsement or significant SPED experience strongly preferred
Middle school teaching experience preferred
Experience with or willingness to implement CKLA curriculum
Knowledge of structured literacy and dyslexia-informed practices (Orton-Gillingham experience preferred)
Strong classroom management and organizational skills
Collaborative and growth-oriented mindset

Nice To Haves

Strong background in Special Education and experience working with students with IEPs
Deep commitment to supporting students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences
Understanding of structured literacy and its application across content areas
Ability to implement and sustain a cohesive, school-wide curriculum
Strong classroom management and student engagement skills
Ability to simplify and structure complex scientific concepts
Collaboration and cross-curricular planning
Data-driven instruction
Effective communication with students, families, and colleagues
Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards in all interactions.
Contribute positively to a collaborative and solutions-oriented school culture.

Responsibilities

Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned instruction in ELA and Social Studies
Implement the CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) curriculum with fidelity, aligned to the school's structured literacy approach
Deliver explicit, systematic instruction in reading, writing, vocabulary, and comprehension
Design lessons that reflect a cohesive, cross-curricular model, integrating literacy and content knowledge
Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, with a strong emphasis on students with IEPs and dyslexia
Establish and maintain a structured, consistent classroom environment
Reinforce shared instructional practices, routines, and language across classrooms
Contribute to a cohesive curriculum that ensures consistency and access for all learners, particularly within our Special Education program
Use a variety of assessment methods to monitor student progress
Analyze data to inform instruction and provide targeted support
Track and document student growth, including progress toward IEP goals when applicable
Collaborate closely with Special Education staff, interventionists, and general education teachers
Participating in IEP meetings and contributing to goal development and progress monitoring
Engage in team planning, data meetings, and professional development
Support the implementation of school-wide practices related to structured literacy and dyslexia
Maintain clear, consistent communication with families
Provide updates on student progress, including academic growth and IEP-related goals