High School Science Teacher

Rochester Prep Charter School•Rochester, NY

About The Position

Uncommon Schools is hiring a High School Science Teacher to help students develop scientific knowledge, inquiry skills, and the ability to engage critically with science. Teachers collaborate across the network and use inquiry-based instruction, student discourse, and varied teaching strategies to prepare students for Advanced Placement and college-level coursework, as well as future study in any STEM discipline. The role includes teaching content in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science; facilitating interactive labs, projects, and student-led scientific discussion; and supporting students’ academic and social-emotional development. Teachers work with colleagues, school leaders, students, and families to set goals, analyze learning, and build a supportive school community.

Requirements

Demonstrated commitment to supporting students’ social-emotional and academic development.
Enthusiasm for collaborating with internal and external partners in students’ best interests.
Ability to learn independently, seek feedback, and implement it to improve outcomes and achieve objectives.
Academic expertise in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before the start of employment.
If the candidate does not have a degree in education, they must enroll in a teacher preparation program and maintain a GPA of at least 2.75 during employment to meet New York State certification eligibility requirements.
Meet New York State certification eligibility requirements; certification is not required at hiring, but teachers must become certified within a reasonable period after starting.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of experience or demonstrated interest in impacting K–12 students in urban schools and communities; experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Teach science curriculum that may include biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science, preparing students for AP and collegiate-level coursework.
Develop students’ skills in questioning, modeling, constructing explanations, data analysis, argumentation, and planning and conducting interactive labs.
Create an environment where students feel confident contributing to scientific discourse.
Facilitate student-led discussions in which students use evidence to develop claims, synthesize arguments, and critique reasoning.
Facilitate student-led inquiry and engage students in laboratory and project-based performance tasks.
Work with the Science department to set academic and engagement goals for students.
Meet weekly with the principal and/or instructional coach to analyze student work and assessment trends and determine responses.
Implement strategies to differentiate instruction for learners in the classroom.
Build positive relationships with students and partner with their families to support students’ learning needs.
Participate in practice-based professional development, mentorship, and coaching.
Attend weekly school-wide meetings to cultivate community, model core values, and encourage student achievement.
Collaborate with grade-level colleagues to develop academic goals and practice instructional strategies.
Become certified in New York State within a reasonable period after beginning employment.

Benefits

Generous paid time off, including sick time, paid holidays, and approximately 10 weeks of paid spring, winter, and summer breaks.
Extensive training and development.
Health insurance.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Pre-tax flexible spending accounts (FSA), dependent care flexible spending accounts (DCFSA), and health savings accounts (HSA).
403(b) retirement savings program with employer match.
Paid leave options, including parental, medical, and disability leave.
Mental health and counseling support.
Wellness benefits.