Instructional Duties:
* Planning and Preparation: Developing lesson plans, selecting appropriate materials, adapting instruction to meet diverse learning needs, and assessing student progress. This includes understanding curriculum standards and aligning instruction accordingly.
* Classroom Management: Creating a positive and productive learning environment, establishing clear rules and expectations, managing student behavior effectively, and ensuring student safety.
* Instructional Delivery: Presenting information clearly and engagingly, using a variety of teaching methods and resources to cater to different learning styles, and facilitating student learning through discussions, activities, and projects.
* Assessment and Evaluation: Designing and administering formative and summative assessments, providing feedback to students on their work, grading assignments accurately and fairly, and using assessment data to inform instruction.
* Differentiation: Adapting instruction and materials to meet the individual needs of all students, including those with learning disabilities, gifted students, and English language learners.
Professional Responsibilities:
* Communication: Communicating effectively with students, parents/guardians, administrators, and colleagues. This includes providing regular updates on student progress, addressing concerns promptly, and collaborating with others to support student learning.
* Professional Development: Participating in professional development activities to stay current with best practices in education, enhance teaching skills, and expand subject matter knowledge.
* Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date student records, including attendance, grades, and other relevant information.
* Compliance: Adhering to school policies, district regulations, and state/federal laws related to education.
* Mentorship (for some): Mentoring new teachers or student teachers.
* Extracurricular Activities (often): Supervising or participating in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, or field trips.
* Parental Engagement: Fostering positive relationships with parents/guardians and engaging them in their children's education.
Ethical Responsibilities:
* Maintaining Confidentiality: Protecting student privacy and confidentiality.
* Acting with Fairness and Impartiality: Treating all students fairly and equitably, regardless of their background or abilities.
* Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Maintaining appropriate professional relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
* Promoting a Safe and Inclusive Classroom: Creating a learning environment that is free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying.
It's crucial to remember that this list is not exhaustive, and the specific duties of a teacher can vary significantly depending on the context. Many teachers also dedicate significant time beyond the school day to grading, lesson planning, and communication.