English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher – Middle & High School 46 views

Kelem International School (KIS) is a Pre-KG to Grade 10 institution with a rich 78-year history as a Scandinavian school in Addis Ababa. For 72 years it operated under the Swedish Embassy as the Swedish Community School before transitioning in 2019 to an independent, not-for-profit international school. Today, KIS continues its legacy of academic excellence, student-centered learning, and global citizenship.

We are currently seeking an experienced and passionate English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher for Middle and High School. This role is ideal for an educator dedicated to fostering a love for literature, enhancing students’ communication skills, and cultivating critical thinking. The teacher will align instruction with the Finnish curriculum and international best practices to provide engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences.

Who We Are

At KIS, our vision is to become a collaborative center of learning in Ethiopia, nurturing confident and self-realized global citizens. Our mission is to empower every child to reach their full potential, developing resilient, curious, open-minded, and reflective learners who can express themselves effectively.

We are committed to equipping our students with the ability to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems creatively, preparing them to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. As lifelong learners, our teachers, and staff engage in continuous professional development to uphold the highest educational standards.

KIS fosters compassionate and responsible global citizens, while honoring and respecting Ethiopia’s rich heritage. Our diverse student body of 200 students, representing 28 different nationalities, follows the Finnish curriculum blended with international educational best-practices and standards for Grades 1-10, alongside the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) for Kindergarten.

If you are an educator who values inquiry-based learning, creativity, and student empowerment, we invite you to apply and become a part of our innovative learning community.

JOB SUMMARY

The English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher will be responsible for designing and delivering engaging, student-centered instruction that enhances literacy, fosters critical thinking, and promotes effective communication. The teacher will cultivate a deep appreciation for literature and language while ensuring students develop strong reading, writing, speaking, and analytical skills.

Key responsibilities include:

• Plan and implement dynamic, inquiry-based lessons aligned with the Finnish curriculum and international standards, integrating diverse literary works and real-world applications.
• Guide students in analyzing texts critically, developing interpretive skills, and articulating their thoughts effectively in both written and verbal formats.
• Teach various writing styles, including creative writing, academic essays, persuasive writing, and research-based assignments, while emphasizing grammar, structure, and clarity.
• Foster independent learning, curiosity, and a passion for literature, storytelling, and diverse global perspectives through interactive discussions and projects.
• Utilize a range of assessments (formative, summative, and performance-based) to track student progress and provide tailored support to meet diverse learning needs.
• Incorporate digital tools and online resources to enhance literacy instruction and create an interactive learning environment.
• Work closely with fellow educators to refine curriculum content and instructional strategies, sharing best practices in literacy instruction.
• Establish a positive, inclusive, and structured classroom environment that encourages respectful dialogue, collaboration, and student autonomy.
• Lead or support literacy-related initiatives such as book clubs, writing competitions, student publications, and drama or speech activities.
• Maintain open communication with parents, providing updates on student progress, learning strategies, and opportunities for involvement.
• Stay current with best practices in English language instruction, literacy education, and innovative teaching methodologies through ongoing learning and training.
• Demonstrates expertise in English Language Arts content, pedagogy, and resources for middle and high school learners.
• Creates and delivers dynamic, standards-aligned lesson plans that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
• Promotes effective writing practices across multiple genres, including creative writing, persuasive essays, and analytical responses.
• Cultivates a classroom environment where students feel empowered to express their ideas confidently, both orally and in writing.
• Utilizes a variety of assessments — formative, summative, and performance-based — to guide instruction and support student progress.
• Provides timely, constructive feedback that helps students refine their language skills and deepen their understanding.
• Maintains a positive, inclusive classroom environment that fosters mutual respect and supports student engagement.
• Integrates technology and multimedia resources to enhance language learning and communication.
• Builds strong, supportive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues through open, empathetic communication.
• Participates in school committees, extracurricular activities, and professional learning communities to contribute to the broader school culture.
• Engages in ongoing professional development and reflective teaching practices to continually grow and improve.
• Upholds a high standard of professionalism, responsibility, and ethical conduct.
• Supports KIS’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion — ensuring all students feel seen, heard, and valued.
• Performs additional responsibilities as assigned by school leadership.

Reports to: Team Leader
Coordinates with: Principals, Teaching staff, Learning Support Department, Curriculum Development Team, and Parents
Working Hours: Monday – Thursday, 7:30 am – 4:30 pm; Friday, 7:30 am – 3:30 pm

• Educational Background: A Bachelor degree in English Language and Literature Education, or a related field is required; a Master’s degree in Education, English Literature, or Curriculum Development is highly desirable.
• Certification & Experience: A valid teaching certification for secondary education with a minimum of three years of experience teaching English Language Arts at the middle or high school level. Experience with international curricula, particularly the Finnish Curriculum or Scandinavian School System is highly preferred.
• Pedagogical Expertise: Strong knowledge of instructional strategies for teaching literature, writing, and communication skills. Experience promoting critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and differentiated instruction.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent command of English (written and spoken); knowledge of Amharic is an advantage. Proven ability to work effectively in multicultural environments.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Instructional Excellence: Ability to create dynamic, engaging lessons that inspire a love for literature, writing, and communication.
• Adaptability: Capacity to tailor lessons to diverse learning needs and emerging educational trends.
• Collaboration: Proven experience working collaboratively with colleagues, students, and families.
• Innovative Thinking: Commitment to integrating modern teaching practices, digital tools, and global perspectives.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with empathy and professionalism.