English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher
Adirondack Academy – HFM BOCES
Adirondack Academy, an alternative education program within HFM BOCES, is seeking a passionate and dedicated English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher to join our team. We are looking for an educator who believes in the power of literacy, relationships, and personalized learning to help students achieve success both in and out of the classroom. This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students who benefit from individualized support, engaging instruction, and strong connections with caring adults. The ideal candidate will bring fresh, innovative ideas to the classroom and thrive in a challenging yet highly rewarding educational environment.
Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver engaging English Language Arts instruction aligned with New York State Learning Standards.
- Develop creative lessons that promote reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills.
- Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students.
- Foster a positive classroom environment built on respect, consistency, and relationship-building.
- Encourage student growth through meaningful feedback, individualized support, and high expectations.
- Monitor student progress and use data to inform instructional practices.
- Collaborate with colleagues, support staff, administrators, and families to support student achievement.
- Maintain accurate records and fulfill all professional responsibilities required of classroom teachers..
Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will:
- Bring fresh, engaging, and innovative ideas to literacy instruction.
- Demonstrate patience, empathy, and resilience when working with students facing academic and personal challenges.
- Understand the importance of trauma-informed practices and relationship-centered teaching.
- Build strong connections with students that foster trust, engagement, and growth.
- Be adaptable and willing to think creatively to meet student needs.
- Value teamwork, consistency, and a student-centered approach to education.
- Believe in the potential of every student and be committed to helping them achieve success.
Why Adirondack Academy?
At Adirondack Academy, we recognize that meaningful learning begins with meaningful relationships. Our educators work together to create a supportive, structured, and student-centered environment where young people can overcome obstacles, develop confidence, and build pathways toward future success. If you are passionate about literacy, relationship-building, and helping students discover their strengths, we encourage you to apply. Join a team dedicated to empowering students, fostering resilience, and creating opportunities for lifelong success.
*Salary commensurate with experience.
- Valid New York State Certification in English Language Arts 7-12 (or eligibility for certification).
- Strong instructional and classroom management skills.
- Understanding of ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and trauma-informed educational practices.
- Ability to be patient, dynamic, flexible, and responsive to student needs.
- Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
- Commitment to supporting students in an alternative education setting.
TEACH Clearance
Per Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, to be employed in a position designated by a school district or BOCES as involving direct contact with students, a clearance for employment from the State Education Department is required. Formal job offer/selection is contingent on candidate's ability to obtain a fingerprint security clearance through the TEACH system prior to working. For more information: http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tsei/ospra/.
Equal Opportunity / Non-Discrimination
HFM BOCES is committed to equal opportunity in educational programs, admissions and employment. HFM BOCES does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious practice, national origin, ethnic group, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age, marital status, military status, veteran status, disability, weight or any other basis prohibited by New York state and/or federal non-discrimination laws in its programs and activities, including admissions and employment, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding the BOCES non-discrimination policies should be directed to Dr. Aaron Bochniak (abochniak@hfmboces.org), Assistant Superintendent for BOCES Operations and Component District Services, (518) 736-4305, HFM BOCES, 2755 State Highway 67, Johnstown, NY 12095. Inquiries may also be addressed to the Office for Civil Rights at the US Department of Education, 32 Old Slip, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10005, 646-428-3800, OCR.NewYork@ed.gov. (Revised 9/2020)