2nd Grade Teacher

About Orton Academy

At Orton Academy, we believe in unlocking every student's potential by providing structured, research-based interventions tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges.

Orton Academy is a groundbreaking 2-8 charter school authorized by D11 in Colorado Springs, CO. We are a regional leader in dyslexia education, utilizing research-based instruction to create personalized learning experiences that enable students to overcome learning challenges. Our curriculum is rooted in the science of reading and structured literacy, ensuring that students receive the targeted support they need to succeed.

At Orton Academy, we don't just teach-we empower. Our students develop the skills, confidence, and strategies to navigate their academic journeys and beyond. Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment, we are redefining what's possible for students with dyslexia.

Learn more about our unique approach at https://ortonk8.org

Philosophy and Vision Alignment

Our Why:

• We exist to ensure that students with dyslexia have access to high-quality, research-based instruction tailored to their unique learning needs.
• We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential.
• We are committed to instilling hope, igniting purpose, and empowering students to succeed academically and personally.

Our How:

• By implementing evidence-based instructional methods that prioritize the science of reading.
• By fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and student-centered learning environment.
• By equipping students with self-advocacy skills and strategies that empower them for lifelong success.

Our What:

• We are a community of educators, students, and families committed to breaking down learning barriers and championing student success.
• We provide specialized instruction tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, ensuring they develop essential literacy and academic skills.
• We ensure that every graduate leaves Orton Academy with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to excel in their future pursuits.

Position Summary: The 2nd Grade Teacher is responsible for creating a supportive, structured, and engaging learning environment that meets

the diverse needs of all students. This role includes a strong emphasis on serving students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other neurodivergent learning profiles through evidence-based instructional practices, intervention strategies, and flexible classroom supports.

Key Responsibilities

Instruction & Curriculum

• Plan and deliver engaging, standards-aligned science instruction for middle school students.
• Implement and effectively utilize the Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) curriculum to support knowledge-building and literacy development within science instruction.
• Develop lessons that promote inquiry, experimentation, and critical thinking in scientific concepts.
• Use a variety of instructional strategies to support diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Break down complex scientific vocabulary and concepts into accessible and structured learning experiences.
• Utilize visual support, hands-on learning, and explicit instruction to support students with language-based learning differences.

Instruction & Classroom Practice

• Deliver standards-aligned lessons in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies with differentiated methods for diverse learners.
• Implement structured literacy practices grounded in the science of reading to support students with dyslexia.
• Use multisensory instructional approaches (e.g., Orton-Gillingham–based strategies) to reinforce phonological awareness, decoding, spelling, and fluency.
• Provide scaffolded and individualized instruction for students with neurodivergent learning needs, including ADHD, autism spectrum profiles, and processing challenges.
• Design lessons that incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning supports.

Student Support & Intervention

• Monitor student progress through formative assessments, running records, and data-driven instructional adjustments.
• Collaborate with interventionists, special educators, and support staff to implement accommodation, modifications, and IEP/504 plans.
• Offer small-group instruction, targeted intervention, and reteach opportunities for struggling learners.
• Foster a classroom environment that celebrates student strengths, encourages self-advocacy, and supports emotional regulation.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with parents/guardians to communicate progress, learning strategies, and support plans.
• Collaborate with grade-level teams and specialists to develop cohesive instructional approaches.
• Participate in professional development focused on literacy instruction, dyslexia awareness, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.

Classroom Environment

• Cultivate a positive, inclusive classroom culture that values diversity in learning styles.
• Use predictable routines, visual schedules, and clear expectations to support executive functioning needs.
• Integrate social-emotional learning practices that promote confidence, resilience, and peer collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education or related field (Master's preferred).
• Valid state teaching certification for Elementary Education.
• Training or experience in structured literacy methods (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, LETRS, Wilson, Barton) strongly preferred.
• Experience working with students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other neurodivergent learning needs.
• Strong understanding of the science of reading and evidence-based literacy instruction.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with assistive technology tools to support reading and writing.
• Ability to design differentiated materials and assessments.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and positive behavior supports.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Salary, Benefits, and Terms

• Salary $46,750 - 65,192.73 / Annual Salary
• 5 days per week, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (During a school year, August - May)
• Work year and hours shall be those established by Orton Academy.
• Performance evaluations will be conducted in accordance with school policy

Equal Employment Opportunity

Orton Academy seeks to comply with applicable laws prohibiting discrimination in employment based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

The Board of Directors at Orton Academy has contracted with Minga Education Group (MEG) to provide employment services for all staff who work at Orton Academy. Through this partnership, MEG provides OA with employment services, a personnel system for human resources, benefits, payroll services, and access to a 401(k) plan. For naming purposes, Minga Education Group is the employer.