Teacher TESOL/TEFL

Lutheran Services in Iowa • Des Moines, IA

9d

About The Position

We are seeking compassionate, culturally responsive Substitute Teachers to support our Adult English Language Learner (ELL) classes serving immigrant and refugee communities. As a substitute, you will provide instruction based on prepared lesson plans or adapt materials as needed to maintain a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment. Your role is essential in helping adult learners develop practical English language skills for everyday life, work, and community integration. This is an on-call substitute position. Days and times vary based on program needs. Classes may be scheduled in the mornings, afternoons, or evenings, either in-person or virtually (if applicable).

Requirements

• Cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the immigrant and refugee experience.
• Strong communication skills and classroom management abilities.
• Ability to adapt instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners with varying English proficiency levels.
• High school diploma or equivalent (some positions may require a bachelor's degree or TESOL certification).
• This position requires a valid driver's license, auto insurance, a good driving record and the ability to pass an extensive background check including checks of the Dependent Adult and Child Abuse registries, Sex Offender registry and a criminal history check.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Education, TESOL, Linguistics, or related field.
• Experience teaching or tutoring ELL/ESL students, preferably in adult education settings.
• TESOL/TEFL certification or adult education credential.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills.
• Prior experience working with refugee or immigrant populations.

Responsibilities

• Deliver English language instruction to adult learners at varying proficiency levels (Pre-literacy to Advanced), using provided lesson plans or approved curriculum materials.
• Foster a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment that reflects the diverse cultural backgrounds of students.
• Support learners in developing skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English for real-life contexts such as employment, healthcare, transportation, and civic engagement.
• Manage classroom dynamics effectively, ensuring student participation and engagement.
• Communicate with program staff regarding student progress, classroom needs, and any concerns that arise during your teaching assignment.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and follow program procedures.

Benefits

• LSI pays for a portion of employee health premiums, offers a monthly wellness discount on health insurance premiums, and contributes to your health savings account each pay check.
• LSI will reimburse you for mileage, offer a 401k match contribution, and provide ongoing professional development training.
• In addition LSI offers a generous paid time off package.
• As a non-profit employer many employees also can qualify for student loan forgiveness programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED