About Our Academy

Wonder what it would be like to go snowshoeing through a maple forest? Or what it may be like to grow your own food in a greenhouse? Students at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) don't wonder what they know! Come be a part of our 62-acres of an outdoor classroom to expand your child’s love of learning. Working gardens, nature trails, forests, wetlands and prairies are all available for students to explore. WMAES students transition from desks to dirt, creating an environment for all students to learn. WMAES knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands-on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.
• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.
• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students. 
• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

About the role

To seamlessly integrate into various classrooms, fostering a dynamic learning environment that maintains the continuity of education in the absence of the regular teacher. The aim is to adeptly execute provided lesson plans, ensuring engaged student participation and academic progress. With a commitment to upholding established routines and discipline, the substitute teacher creates a safe and respectful classroom atmosphere that promotes responsible citizenship and mutual respect. This position will support and uphold the mission and vision of the classical academy.

What you'll do

• Follows the lesson plan left by the teacher for whom he/she is substituting.
• Maintains a classroom environment conducive to effective learning.
• Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at the times designated.
• Maintains as fully as possible the established routines and procedures of the school and classroom to which he/she is assigned.
• Plans needed activities when lesson plans do not structure the entire class periods with planned learning activities. Activities planned by the substitute should be appropriate for grade level and subject of the class.
• Assumes responsibilities for overseeing student behavior in class, between classes and during lunch periods.
• Carries out the regular teacher’s discipline plan.
• Assumes any duty that the regular teacher would have for that day.
• Promotes the overall effectiveness of the Academy by performing tasks and sharing responsibilities of other members during peak periods or when there is an overload of duties.

• Motivates students to achieve at their highest level of ability and potential through classroom activities, assignments, relationships, participation, and feedback; holds high expectations and demonstrates sensitivity to different learning styles.  
• Uses resources effectively to support learning activities in the classroom, the Academy, and the community.
• Demonstrates genuine concern for students in a climate characterized by high personal and student expectations. 

• Promotes responsible citizenship through one’s actions as a role model. 
• Provides a classroom atmosphere based on the principles of firm, fair, and consistent practices, respect for individual children, and the development of responsible citizenship. 
• Understands, communicates, and enforces the Student Code of Conduct.

• Uses technology effectively for instruction, record keeping, communication and other administrative tasks. 
• Conducts himself or herself according to professional and ethical principles. 
• Continually strives to improve classroom methods, teaching techniques, and interpersonal relationships. 
• Displays personal qualities, which reflect favorably upon the individual, the group, and the Academy.  
• Displays pride in being an employee and a member of the Academy. 
• Assumes other responsibilities assigned by the Administrator.   

• Assumes responsibility for the orderliness and safety of the learning environment and the appropriate and safe use of instructional facilities and equipment.  

Qualifications

• 60 college credits required; Bachelors degree or Valid Michigan Teacher Certificate preferred.
• Demonstrated competence working with students.
• Computer literate.
• Excellent verbal and written expression.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Works well in a collaborative environment.

About Choice Schools Associates

West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, WMAES is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight-knit community school in your area.