Summary:

We are seeking a full-time elementary teacher to join our team at Rainier Elementary School. The ideal candidate will be passionate about teaching and have experience working with K-5 students. The candidate must be able to create a positive and engaging learning environment for students.

*Current, In-District applicants must submit a letter of interest, detailing qualifications to Rainier School District Human Resources

Job Details:

180 day contract (7 hours/day, 5 days/week)
Salary
- Base: $59,881 - $118,042
- 5 Enrichment Days: $1,663.36 - $3,278.94
Eligible for medical/dental/vision benefit through the School Employees Benefit Board (Division of the WA State Health Care Authority)
Eligible for retirement benefits with the WA State Department of Retirement Systems
Sick and Personal Leave
Affiliation: Rainier Education Association

Essential Functions:

Establish and maintain a positive, safe, and inclusive classroom culture through clear expectations, relationship building, and support for students’ social-emotional growth.
Observe, evaluate, and document students’ academic performance, behavior, social development, and physical well-being to inform instruction and intervention.
Prepare culturally responsive materials and learning environments that support student engagement, safety, and belonging.
Collaborate as an active Professional Learning Community (PLC) member to implement Washington State K–12 Learning Standards and district curriculum.
Utilize differentiated instruction, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and evidence-based instructional practices to meet students’ varying needs, strengths, language profiles, and interests.
Plan and conduct balanced instructional programs utilizing student-centered inquiry, multi-sensory approaches, hands-on learning, collaborative learning opportunities, and meaningful student engagement.
Instruct students individually, in small groups, and in whole-group settings using developmentally appropriate and evidence-based instructional practices.
Use student data, observation, and ongoing assessment to adjust instruction and respond to students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.

Qualifications:

Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with proper endorsement(s) for K–5 instruction.
Current WSP/FBI background and fingerprint clearance.

Requirements:

Strong content knowledge and training in child development and area(s) of endorsement.
Demonstrated proficiency in written, oral, and digital communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to build positive, respectful, and supportive relationships with students, families, staff, and community members.
Knowledge of current state education codes, district policies, and student privacy laws (FERPA).
Knowledge of and experience with state-mandated testing, progress monitoring, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
Ability to develop, modify, scaffold, and adjust curriculum and instruction to meet the individual learning and behavioral needs of students, including accommodations and interventions.
Ability to communicate learning targets, expectations, and student progress in an age-appropriate, supportive, and meaningful manner.
Demonstrated willingness to reflect, seek understanding, accept feedback, collaborate with colleagues, and continuously grow professionally in support of student learning.
Demonstrated commitment to working collaboratively with grade-level teams, specialists, intervention staff, and families to support student success.
Demonstrated commitment to Cultural Competency, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CCDEI) standards and inclusive educational practices.
Commitment to contributing to a positive school culture built on relationships, professionalism, collaboration, and high expectations for all students.
Ability to problem solve as part of a collaborative team focused on supporting the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth of students.
Willingness to participate in professional growth systems, supervision, collaboration, and ongoing professional development.
Must be punctual, dependable, and able to collaborate effectively with others.
Follow School Board policies and procedures.
Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand or walk for prolonged periods, perform a variety of specialized tasks, maintain records, and establish cooperative working relationships.
Position may entail lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs., reaching/handling, clear oral communication, and near/far visual acuity.

Required Application Documents:

Completed District Online Application & Current Resume: Highlighting relevant K-5 teaching experience, student teaching, or related work with youth.
Cover Letter: Outlining your teaching philosophy, experience with diverse student populations, and why you are a great fit for this specific school community.
Three (3) Professional Letters of Reference: Must be from recent supervisors who can attest to your instructional skills and professional character (e.g., principals, vice-principals, or university supervisors).
Copy of Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate: (Or evidence of eligibility to obtain one by the start of the school year) showing proper K-5/Elementary Education endorsement(s).
Unofficial Transcripts: From all undergraduate and graduate coursework (official transcripts would be required if hired).

*CLOSES 6/3/2026*

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: Rainier School District provides equal opportunity for all applicants and staff in recruitment, hiring, retention, assignment, transfer, promotion, and training. Such equal employment opportunity shall be provided without discrimination with respect to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, pregnancy, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a trained guide dog or service animal, or any other basis prohibited by law. We also provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.

Inquiries concerning equal employment opportunity or the application of may be directed to:
- Title IX & Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Kristin Robinson, robinsonk@rainier.wednet.edu, 360-446-2205, P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576
- Bilingual Programs & ADA Coordinator: Justin Gurnsey, gurnseyj@rainier.wednet.edu, 360-446-7406, P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576
- Section 504 Coordinator: John Beckman, beckmanj@rainier.wednet.edu, 360-446-2205, P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576

K-5 Elementary Teacher (2026-2027, 2 POSITIONS)