Job Description

TITLE: 2nd Grade Teacher - Lyseth Elementary School

Portland Public Schools seeks a dedicated educator to teach 2nd grade students at Rowe Elementary School for the 2026-2027 school year and beyond. Under the direction of the school principal and admin team, the teacher plans and provides for rigorous, engaging, and joyful learning experiences for all students. The teacher fosters an environment that supports the intellectual, physical, social and emotional wellness and development of individuals to ensure success for every student. In addition to supporting students' growth and well-being, the teacher also creates and develops, selects and modifies instructional plans and materials to meet the needs of students' varying learning needs. The teacher monitors and evaluates student growth and outcomes using standards based curriculum and guidelines.

The teacher is an integral member of the Rowe community that serves as a support to students' holistic well-being; teachers at Portland Public Schools thrive by having the opportunity to collaborate with students' families and caregivers and all relevant stakeholders in support of students' learning and social-emotional needs.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of pertinent curriculum standards, techniques for integrating and adapting curriculum and effective instructional practices
• Understanding of the teaching and learning process, including the ability to provide instruction that reflects multiple perspectives as well as trauma-informed practices that engages culturally diverse populations
• Record of student achievement ensuring rigorous, culturally inclusive instruction using standards based curriculum and guidelines that correlates with developmentally appropriate and engaging learning activities
• Excellent human relations skills; the ability to work effectively with administrators, colleagues, central office, school based staff, students, and parents

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in applicable field of education from an accredited college or university
• Additional combinations of applicable education, training, and experience are welcome
• Portland Public Schools values linguistic diversity and believes that candidates who speak another language bring added value to the classroom, school, and district culture and diversity

CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Maine State fingerprint (CHRC) authorization (more info)
• At least one of the following teaching certificates (more info):
  • Maine State Elementary Teacher Endorsement 029 (PK-3 or K-3)
  • Maine State Elementary Teacher Endorsement 020 (K-6 or K-8)

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:

• Schedule: School Year, Full Time (1.0 FTE)
• Assignment: Permanent
• Reports to: School Principal
• Contract: Part of PEA union (see 2025-2028 CBA here)
• Salary: Based on education and experience, as outlined in CBA
• Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here

ABOUT Lyseth:

At Harrison Lyseth Elementary School in Portland, Maine, we work collaboratively to ensure all students feel a strong sense of belonging and are engaged in meaningful, grade-level learning every day. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive school community where students are challenged academically, supported socially and emotionally, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Our instructional program emphasizes high-quality, evidence-based teaching practices, including explicit and systematic literacy instruction in the primary grades. We utilize EL Education in grades K�5 and Illustrative Mathematics to promote student engagement, critical thinking, and deep learning. Data-informed decision-making, professional collaboration, and continuous improvement are central to our work and are supported through instructional coaching and ongoing professional learning opportunities.

Lyseth is grounded in a commitment to equity and anti-racist practices. We value the diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences of our students and families and strive to create a learning environment where all students feel seen, valued, and empowered. Through restorative practices, strong family partnerships, and a focus on belonging, we work together to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

As part of Portland Public Schools, Lyseth offers a collaborative and supportive professional culture with opportunities for growth, leadership, and continued learning for all staff members.

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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.