Teacher/Assistant Softball Coach

Note: To be considered, applications must be complete. This includes a full list of references with current contact information — email addresses when available and direct phone numbers (not main office lines). At least one reference should be a former employer or supervisor. Incomplete applications or unverifiable references may impact consideration for an interview or employment.

Mission and Vision:

At Gentry Public Schools, our mission is to "Ensure all students connect, learn, succeed," and our vision is to provide "a world-class education with a small-town feel." We are committed to creating a supportive, high-quality learning environment where every student can thrive academically and personally while maintaining the close-knit community that defines Gentry.

We are seeking a candidate with a strong public servant mindset and a genuine service attitude, committed to prioritizing the well-being of children—if you are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of kids and truly love what you do, this job may be of interest to you. Check out our website at www.gentrypioneers.com and follow us on Facebook to learn more about who we are.

Click here for a virtual tour of our school facilities.

Professionalism:

At Gentry Public Schools, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of professionalism at all times, both in the school setting and beyond. This includes maintaining a positive and respectful presence on social media and in our community interactions. Staff members are expected to model this professionalism consistently and set a strong example for students, colleagues, and the community. By doing so, we cultivate an environment of integrity, respect, and accountability that reflects our commitment to excellence and fosters a positive culture both inside and outside the classroom.

Position Overview:

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, the applicant will facilitate student success and growth in academic and interpersonal skills through implementing district approved curriculum; document teaching and student progress/activities/outcomes; address specific educational needs of individual students and create a flexible, safe and optimal learning environment; and provide feedback to students, parents, and administration regarding student progress, expectations, goals, etc.

Teaching Responsibilities :

• Develops and administers middle school curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
• Instructs students in the principles of responsible citizenship and other subject matters specified in applicable laws, as well as administrative regulations and procedures of the school system.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies and establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
• Coordinates with other middle school professional staff members to evaluate and assess curriculum and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
• Supervises students in activities that take place outside of the classroom during the school day, including activities involving school transportation.
• Administers standardized tests in accordance with District testing programs.
• Participates in and supports a positive school culture through the Professional Learning Community process.
• Demonstrates flexibility to shift from on-site to virtual learning through implementation of a blended learning model of instruction.
• Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Assistant Softball Coach Responsibilities:

• Assist in the coordination and supervision of the softball program and team.
• Help students achieve gains in athletic skill and team performance.
• Assist in designing a training program and game program.
• Assist in organizing and supervising the coaching staff to assure that the program is properly implemented.
• Assume duties of the Head Coach if required to do so.
• Attend Arkansas State Activities Association (AAA) rules meetings, and adhere to rules and regulations of AAA.
• Assist in the development of team rules, communicating them to the players and their parents, and equitably enforce them.
• Maintain good public relations for the softball program.
• Ensure that student athletes meet eligibility rules.
• Ensure that student athletes adhere to training rules, lettering policies, grade requirements, and rules of behavior.
• Ensure the continual supervision of student athletes on the field, in conditioning, and in the locker and shower rooms.
• Ensure that health and safety precautions are observed during all activities.
• Immediately report all major injuries incurred during practice sessions or competition to the Head Coach, Athletic Director, and Principal.
• Assist in the proper purchasing, inventory, and care of equipment.
• See that district policies are observed during all activities.
• Keep abreast of new information, innovative ideas and techniques.
• Obtain advance approval of the Head Coach for all activities and expenditures.
• Adhere to all district health and safety policies, including all precautions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.
• Other duties as assigned by the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal, or other Administrative Staff.

All candidates, regardless of the position they are applying for, must demonstrate the following additional essential skills to align with the mission and vision of Gentry Public Schools :

• Consistently monitor district email to stay informed and respond promptly to important communications.
• Submit requested data and information in a timely manner.
• Attend all scheduled meetings organized by supervisors and district administrators.
• Complete necessary paperwork as directed.
• Demonstrate proficiency with workplace technology and adapt as needed.
• Prioritize safety by ensuring all doors and windows are securely locked.
• Respect the established chain of command in all interactions.
• Stay informed about and understand the district's crisis management plan.
• Exemplify professional excellence in the school, community, and on social media.
• Focus on their designated responsibilities and collaborate effectively while respecting the boundaries of their role.
• Serve as a strong advocate for the school district, promoting its values and achievements both internally and in the broader community.
• Maintain a positive attitude and actively contribute to a supportive and constructive work environment, avoiding negativity.
• Demonstrate reliable attendance to maximum student instruction and enhance learning outcomes.

Physical and Mental Demands:

• Ability to lift at least 30 pounds.
• Ability to provide physical assistance to students in emergency situations, including evacuations or lockdowns.
• Must have the stamina and agility required to care for active students in a school setting.

Work Environment:

• Works in standard office and school building environments.
• Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
• May be required to provide student behavior support using appropriate restraint or seclusion techniques for student safety purposes.

Benefits:

• Opportunities for professional growth and development within Gentry Public Schools.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• A variety of additional benefit plans available for enrollment through payroll deduction.
• Teacher retirement benefits.
• Includes days off for holidays and scheduled breaks throughout the year.

Certified Staff Salary & Compensation Overview

Gentry Public Schools offers a competitive salary schedule for certified staff. A first-year teacher with a bachelor’s degree earns a base salary of $50,500, a teacher in year 15 earns $54,800, and a teacher in year 30 earns $58,800. These amounts are base salaries and do not include additional stipends for advanced degrees or additional contract days.

Teachers receive the following degree stipends: a bachelor's + 15 graduate hours adds $1,200, a master’s degree adds $4,800, a master’s plus 15 adds $5,400, a master’s plus 30 adds $6,000, an educational specialist adds $7,000, and a doctorate adds $8,000. We also offer longevity stipends to reward commitment to Gentry Public Schools. These begin at $500 after 5 years and increase in 5-year increments up to $1,500 at 25 years of service.

All base salaries listed are for 190-day contracts. For positions that require more than 190 days, the base salary (before stipends) is divided by 190 to determine a daily rate. That rate is then multiplied by the total number of contracted days, and applicable stipends are added afterward. All base salaries listed are for a 190-day contract unless otherwise stated.

In addition to degree stipends, some positions may include extra stipends for roles such as coaching, club sponsorships, or other responsibilities, depending on the assignment.

You can view the complete Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) salary schedules here .

What We Value in Our Team Members

Gentry Public Schools values experience and longevity in education; however, we place equal—or even greater—emphasis on professionalism, a positive, solution-oriented mindset, and the ability to foster a healthy, supportive workplace culture. As a service-focused district, we strive to differentiate ourselves by how we make students, families, and colleagues feel, and we seek team members who share that commitment. While experience is important, sustained success comes from attitude, integrity, and a dedication to creating a constructive, welcoming environment both in school and in the broader community, including online and social media interactions.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a completed application, resume, and proof of certification. You can apply using the "Apply for this job" link above. You can also click here to learn more about our amazing school district and community.