English Language Learner Specialist - Elementary

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-5. The ML Teacher works collaboratively with classroom teachers, support staff, and families to design and deliver culturally responsive language acquisition instruction aligned with state English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards 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 intervention, or co-teaching models. Focus on developing all four core language domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
• Differentiation & Scaffolding: Differentiate instruction and scaffold content to effectively support students across varying language proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Specialized Strategies: Implement evidence-based language acquisition strategies, such as visual supports and graphic organizers.

Assessment, Screening & Identification

• Identification & Screening: Administer state-mandated English language proficiency screeners (e.g., WIDA Screener) to identify eligible incoming students.
• Annual Proficiency Testing: Coordinate and administer annual language proficiency assessments (e.g., WIDA ACCESS for ELLs).
• Progress Monitoring: Monitor ongoing academic progress and language acquisition using both formative and summative data.

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: Active participation in MTSS/RTI teams, 504 meetings, and IEP meetings to advise on distinguishing language acquisition differences from learning differences.

Collaboration & Advocacy

• Co-Planning: Collaborate and consult with general education grade-level teachers to adapt and modify 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).

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.

Personal Attributes

• Ability to work productively as part of a collaborative team and independently when needed.

• Ability to exercise sound professional judgment and make informed instructional decisions.

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and recognize the strengths students bring from their home languages and cultures.

• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, administrators, and community members.

• Ability to handle confidential student information appropriately.

• 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.