Academic Teacher Physical Education & Science

YMCA of Greater Toronto•Toronto, ON

6d•CA$46,245 - CA$95,817•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA Academy is seeking a passionate Academic Physical Education and Science Teacher to join their innovative secondary school team. This role involves planning and instructing students in alignment with the Ontario Ministry of Education's curriculum, with a focus on supporting students with learning disabilities or differences through a personalized, differentiated approach and specialized programs. The teacher will foster a love for physical fitness, health, and scientific inquiry, integrating technology and adapting curriculum to meet diverse learning needs. The position requires creating a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment, managing classroom resources, and maintaining accurate student records. Collaboration with colleagues, administrators, and parents is essential, as is participation in professional development and extracurricular activities. The teacher will also serve as a mentor and role model, guiding students in their academic, personal, and physical development.

Requirements

Completion of a recognized teacher education program, such as a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) with a specialization or major in Physical Education, Kinesiology, Science, or equivalent, with a focus on secondary school education.
Completion of a successful teaching practicum in a secondary school setting as part of teacher education program.
Strong academic background in both physical education and various scientific disciplines (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics).
Membership in good standing with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) and hold a valid teaching certificate.
Qualifications to teach in the Intermediate (Grades 7-10) and/or Senior (Grades 11-12) divisions.
Proficiency in a variety of teaching methodologies and instructional strategies tailored to diverse learning styles and needs.
Ability to design and implement effective assessment tools to evaluate student learning and progress.
Ability to develop and implement engaging lesson plans for both physical education and science subjects.
Competence in integrating educational technology into the classroom and physical education settings to enhance learning and engagement (e.g., fitness tracking apps, laboratory simulations).
Strong digital literacy skills to manage online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and digital communication with students and parents.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information and foster positive relationships with students, colleagues, and parents.
Strong classroom management skills to create and maintain a safe and productive learning environment in both classroom and physical activity settings.
Certification in first aid and CPR, and knowledge of health and safety regulations related to physical activities.
Willingness to participate in and support extracurricular activities such as intramural clubs, fitness clubs, or science clubs.
Dedication to continuous learning and professional growth through attending workshops, conferences, and pursuing further education.
Ability to work effectively in a diverse school community and incorporate inclusive practices that respect and reflect the diversity of the student population.
Demonstrated experience in and enthusiasm for working with youth with learning disabilities, social/emotional needs, and/or language processing challenges who are under-performing or who are disengaged from their learning process.
Knowledge of current curricular trends, use of manipulatives and assistive technologies.
Ability to work within the complexities of a large, not-for-profit charitable organization.
Well-developed interpersonal, and relationship building skills; ability to establish rapport and excellent communication with students, parents/guardians, staff and volunteers.
Excellent understanding of diversity, inclusion and equity including the ability to identify and address barriers, work effectively with diverse stakeholders, and integrate equity into program design.
Commitment to the YMCA’s Mission, Vision and Values.
Focus on the health, safety and wellbeing of all children, youth, and vulnerable people in YMCA programs including understanding legal and moral obligations related to reporting suspected child abuse to Child Protection Services.
YMCA Competencies: Accountable, Relationship-Builder, Improvement-Orientated, Team Player & Leader, Equity and Wellbeing Promoter.

Nice To Haves

Previous teaching experience at the secondary school level is highly desirable, particularly in teaching Science and Physical Education.
Additional qualifications or specialist certifications in specific areas such as Special Education, physical education and science teaching topics preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that align with the Ontario curriculum for Physical Education and Science.
Foster a love for physical fitness, health, and scientific inquiry through various motivational activities and projects.
Utilize a variety of instructional strategies to meet the diverse needs of students.
Integrate technology and multimedia resources into lessons to enhance learning.
Design and adapt curriculum materials that foster physical fitness, health education, scientific literacy, and critical thinking.
Ensure that the curriculum reflects current best practices in both physical education and science.
Develop and administer formative and summative assessments to evaluate student learning.
Provide timely individualized and constructive feedback to students to support their academic and physical growth, and to help them achieve their full potential, addressing different learning needs and styles.
Manage classroom materials and resources, ensuring a safe, clean, and organized workspace for students, as well as, physical activity settings to ensure student safety and engagement.
Maintain accurate records of student progress and achievements.
Create a positive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages respect and collaboration.
Implement classroom management strategies to ensure a safe and productive learning atmosphere; address and resolve conflicts or behavioral issues in a fair and consistent manner.
Differentiate instruction to meet the varied learning needs and abilities of students in both physical education and science.
Provide additional support and resources for students with learning difficulties or exceptionalities.
Serve as a mentor and role model, guiding students in their academic, personal, and physical development.
Work collaboratively with colleagues, administrators, and support staff to enhance the educational experience.
Participate in departmental meetings, school committees, and professional learning communities.
Attend Parent/Teacher interviews, Open Houses, Parent Socials, Curriculum Information Sessions for Parents; discuss student performance and strategies for improvement in parent-teacher conferences.
Maintain open and regular communication with parents/guardians regarding student progress and school events.
Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with educational best practices and curriculum changes.
Organize and participate in parent-teacher conferences to discuss student performance and strategies for improvement.
Attend workshops, conferences, and training sessions as required by the school.
Maintain accurate records of student attendance, grades, and other required documentation.
Prepare and submit reports, as needed, for school administration and the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Participate in extracurricular activities, such as intramurals, fitness clubs, or science clubs, to support the overall school community.
Assist in organizing and supervising school events, field trips, and other activities.
Adhere to all school policies, procedures, and regulations set by the school board and the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions with students, parents, and colleagues.
Perform other related duties as assigned.