In order to Exceed Great Expectations, the academic potential for all learners must be identified, nurtured and maximized, a Gifted & Talented Teacher will be in every elementary and middle school. The Gifted & Talented Teacher acts as a liaison between the Office of Gifted and Talented and MNPS schools in the implementation of academically differentiated instructional programs. The Gifted & Talented Teacher coordinates screening and selection processes; provides content-based direct instruction that is advanced, differentiated, and appropriate for learners of varying levels and abilities in grades K-8.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Regular and reliable attendance is an expectation of the job.
Education Level Education Details Required/ Preferred
Master's Degree - Preferred
Licenses and Certifications Licenses/Certification Details Time Frame Required/ Preferred
Tennessee teaching certification for elementary and/ or middle school - Required
Meets Gifted Education requirements per the State of Tennessee by having either the Gifted Employment Standard or the Gifted Endorsement - Preferred
Experience Experience Details Required/ Preferred
1-3 years - Highly successful teaching experience or proven expertise working with advanced learners - Required
Essential Functions
Provide high-quality Gifted and Talented instruction aligned to district-approved curriculum and core content standards, maintaining direct instructional responsibility with students.
Implement advanced instructional delivery models that support acceleration, depth, and complexity, in collaboration with school-based teams.
Design, deliver, and record model lessons for professional learning, modeling effective GATE-aligned instructional practices and strategies for advanced learners in authentic classroom settings.
Conduct and host learning walks, supporting visiting educators in observing advanced instructional practices and engaging in reflective dialogue.
Facilitate collaborative reflection with peers through lesson debriefs, feedback conversations, and shared analysis of instructional practice, without assuming evaluative authority.
Collaborate with GATE colleagues, curriculum staff, and content teachers to strengthen instructional coherence and alignment.
Contribute practitioner feedback to curriculum refinement and instructional improvement efforts based on classroom implementation.
Collect, analyze, and reflect on student learning data to monitor student growth and assess the effectiveness of accelerated instructional practices and the program model.
Balance instructional leadership responsibilities with ongoing GATE teaching duties, maintaining accountability for student learning, engagement, and growth.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities KSAs Proficiency
Knowledge of Gifted and Talented instructional practices that promote acceleration, enrichment, depth, and complexity.
Understanding of grade-level science standards and alignment of advanced instruction to core content.
Skill in collaborative planning and co-teaching with instructional peers.
Ability to analyze student data and adjust instruction based on evidence.
Strong reflective practice skills, including giving and receiving instructional feedback.
Ability to implement curriculum with fidelity while meeting the needs of advanced learners.
Effective communication skills with students, families, school staff, and district partners.
Ability to manage instructional responsibilities across multiple school settings.
Commitment to teamwork and collaboration, with the ability to build trust and work effectively across schools and roles; teamwork is an essential attribute of this role.
A growth-oriented, student-first mindset that views curriculum as a living resource designed to advance student learning and instructional practice.
Has attended or is willing to attend the Gifted Employment Standard Training through Vanderbilt University.
Required for All Jobs
Punctuality and consistent presence are essential to maintaining a productive and collaborative work environment. Regular in-person attendance is a fundamental expectation of this position.
Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.
Complies with all laws, regulations, policies and standards.