Job Posting: High School Multilingual (ML) Teacher
Gorham High School, Multilingual Department
Gorham High School is seeking an enthusiastic and innovative High School Multilingual (ML) Teacher to join our team. Following the retirement of a long-tenured and beloved educator, we are looking for a dedicated professional to lead our Multilingual Learners toward academic and social success.
Note on Terminology: At Gorham High School, we use the term "Multilingual (ML) Teacher" (formerly referred to in some districts as ESL or ESOL) to reflect our asset-based approach to language acquisition. We believe our students' home languages are a strength, and we seek a teacher who will champion their linguistic and academic growth.
Key Responsibilities
Curriculum & Program Development:
Design and implement high-quality English language instruction for Multilingual Learners that aligns with WIDA English Language Development (ELD) Standards.
Develop and maintain Individualized Language Acquisition Plans (ILAPs) for students at varying proficiency levels.
Possess the vision to adapt and scaffold curriculum across content areas (math, science, social studies) to ensure ML students have equitable access to all high school programming.
Instruction & Classroom Management:
Deliver differentiated instruction using research-based strategies (such as SIOP or Secondary GLAD) in both specialized ML settings and through co-teaching/consultative models.
Create a culturally responsive classroom environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel safe, seen, and empowered.
Leverage students' home languages as a bridge to English proficiency, fostering a true multilingual identity.
Assessment & Compliance:
Administer the WIDA Screener and annual ACCESS for ELLs assessments to track and report student growth.
Monitor student progress regularly to determine eligibility for exit or continued services in accordance with Maine state and federal guidelines.
Advocacy & Community Interaction:
Act as a primary liaison between the school and multilingual families, ensuring clear communication regarding student progress and school events.
Collaborate with general education teachers to provide professional development and strategies for supporting MLs in the mainstream classroom.
Organize and support events that celebrate the diverse cultural heritages represented within the Gorham student body.
Qualifications
Education & Certification:
Bachelor’s degree in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
Valid Maine State Certification (660 Endorsement - ESL/ESOL) or eligibility for certification.
Proficiency in English and at least one other language is highly preferred.
Experience:
Previous experience working with multilingual learners at the high school level.
Experience navigating the socio-emotional needs of refugee, immigrant, or first-generation student populations.
Skills & Attributes:
Deep understanding of second language acquisition theories and culturally responsive pedagogy.
Strong collaborative skills for co-teaching and consulting with content-area colleagues.
Patience, empathy, and a commitment to educational equity and "language justice."
What We Offer
A supportive, collaborative work environment that deeply values its multilingual community.
Opportunities for professional development in the latest ML instructional technologies and advocacy strategies.
Competitive salary and benefits package.
The chance to continue the legacy of a highly respected program while shaping the future of ML education in Gorham.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to submit the following:
A cover letter outlining your philosophy of Multilingual Education and relevant experience.
A current resume.
Copies of certification(s) and relevant credentials.
Contact information for professional references.
Please send your application materials to the Gorham High School Human Resources Department at [Application Link]. The review of applications will begin immediately, with the position scheduled to start at the beginning of the next academic year.
Gorham High School is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for all staff and students. If you are passionate about empowering multilingual voices and have a vision for student success, we encourage you to apply.
Join us in ensuring every student at Gorham High School has the tools to succeed in a global world!
For further questions or information, please contact our Principal, Brian Jandreau, at [brian.jandreau@gorhamschools.org].