English Language Learner Specialist - Elementary

English Language Learner Specialist - Elementary - Vacancy ID: 275602
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Position Details
Multilingual Learner Teacher (ML / EL) Job Description
Multilingual Learner Teacher (Elementary K–4)
Position Overview
The Multilingual Learner (ML) Teacher is responsible for assessing, instructionally supporting, and advocating for multilingual/English learners in grades K–4. The ML Teacher works collaboratively with classroom teachers, support staff, and families to design and deliver culturally responsive language acquisition instruction aligned with the WIDA English Language Development (ELD) Standards Framework (2020 Edition) and the general education curriculum.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Instruction & Instructional Support
- Targeted Instruction: Plan and deliver targeted English language acquisition instruction using push-in, pull-out language instruction, or co-teaching models. Focus on developing interpretive (listening, reading, viewing) and expressive (speaking, writing, representing) language through the WIDA Key Language Uses (Narrate, Inform, Explain, Argue), integrated with grade-level content.
- Differentiation & Scaffolding: Differentiate instruction and scaffold content to effectively support students across WIDA English language proficiency levels 1–6.
- Specialized Strategies: Implement evidence-based language acquisition strategies, such as visual supports, graphic organizers, sentence frames, structured academic talk, cognate work, and explicit vocabulary instruction.
- Asset-Based Instruction: Leverage students’ home languages, cultures, and full linguistic repertoires as resources for learning.
- Early Literacy: Support oral language development and foundational literacy skills for multilingual learners, in coordination with the school’s reading team and in line with Wisconsin Act 20 early literacy requirements.
- Diverse Learner Needs: Provide targeted support for newcomers, students with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE), and multilingual learners who also receive special education services.
Assessment, Screening & Identification
- Language Monitoring & Assessment: Assess student progress using state English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards and administer annual language proficiency assessments (e.g., ACCESS for ELLs, WIDA Screener) to track proficiency growth.
- Progress Monitoring: Monitor ongoing academic progress and language acquisition using both formative and summative data.
- Data Interpretation: Interpret WIDA Screener and ACCESS for ELLs results and share them with classroom teachers and families to guide instruction and services.
Compliance & Program Management
- Language Plans: Develop, implement, and update Individualized Language Plans (ILPs) or English Learner Plans annually for all students on the caseload.
- Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation regarding student identification, service hours, reclassification/exit criteria, and post-exit monitoring.
- Multi-Disciplinary Teams: Participate actively in MTSS/RTI teams, 504 meetings, and IEP meetings to advise on distinguishing language acquisition differences from learning differences.
- Program Compliance: Deliver services in line with the district’s Language Instruction Educational Program (LIEP), Title III requirements, and families’ right to receive school information in a language they understand.
Collaboration & Advocacy
- Co-Planning: Collaborate and consult with general education grade-level teachers to scaffold access to grade-level content, instructional texts, and assessments.
- Staff Guidance: Provide professional guidance and support to school staff on best practices for language development and culturally responsive pedagogy.
Family & Community Engagement
- Family Communication: Regularly communicate student progress to families in clear, accessible formats and languages, coordinating with translators or interpreters as needed.
- Community Events: Host or participate in district EL/ML family nights, parent advisory committees, and school-wide multicultural events.
Qualifications & Competencies
Education & Certification
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, TESOL, Applied Linguistics, or a related field.
- Licensure: State Teaching License with an English as a Second Language (ESL) / English Language Learners (ELL) endorsement (e.g., Wisconsin DPI License #1395 / ESL K–12) and/or Bilingual-Bicultural License #1023.
Skills & Abilities
- Bilingual Proficiency: Fluency or proficiency in a second language (e.g., Spanish) is strongly preferred.
- Pedagogical Expertise: Deep understanding of second language acquisition theories, culturally responsive instruction, and language assessment frameworks, including the WIDA ELD Standards Framework (2020 Edition) and ACCESS for ELLs.
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Ability to work productively as part of a collaborative team and independently when needed.
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Ability to exercise sound professional judgment and make informed instructional decisions.
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Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and recognize the strengths students bring from their home languages and cultures.
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Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
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Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, administrators, and community members.
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Ability to handle confidential student information appropriately.
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Commitment to continuous professional growth and student success.
Why BASD?
Join the Burlington Area School District—located in Southeastern Wisconsin—where educators are inspired, supported, and empowered to make a lasting impact. As one of the largest employers in the region, BASD serves more than 3,000 students and families across Racine, Walworth, and Kenosha counties.
At BASD, we believe in a future where:
- Every student becomes a confident, career-ready individual who leads with integrity, empathy, and purpose.
Every staff member feels valued, heard, and inspired to grow professionally and personally. - Our community shares in the responsibility of raising not only knowledgeable students, but “Be a Good Human” leaders who positively impact the world.
As a teacher in BASD, you’ll experience:
- A supportive culture that values collaboration, innovation, and educator voice.
- Strong mentorship and professional collaboration.
- A variety of learning environments where you can find the perfect fit for your teaching style.
We offer diverse educational pathways—including traditional EC–12 programs, a K–6 Montessori school, and innovative alternative programs such as WisCo Virtual School, FRC High School, Project WIN, PAC House, and the RISE program—providing educators with unique opportunities to shape learning in ways that matter.
If you’re looking for a district that invests in you and celebrates your passion for teaching, Burlington Area School District is the place for your professional journey.
The Burlington Area School District is an equal opportunity employer. The district does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or any other status protected by applicable state and federal law. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to fostering a work environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
Applicants requiring accommodations during the application or interview process should contact the District's Human Resources Department to ensure their needs are met.
The Burlington Area School District is committed to providing equal access to educational opportunities and employment for all individuals, and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.
Candidates for any position within the district must not have any criminal convictions that would disqualify them from employment under Wisconsin state law or federal regulations. Any felony conviction or other serious criminal history will be carefully reviewed to determine eligibility for employment. By submitting an application, candidates consent to the background check process and acknowledge that any offer of employment is contingent upon the results.
Candidate Requirements
- English Language Learner
- Resume
- Transcripts & Licenses/Certifications