Science teacher - Physics

The Frederick Gunn School•Washington, CT

22d

About The Position

The Frederick Gunn School, founded in 1850, is a co-ed boarding and day school for students in grades 9-12 as well as a post-graduate year. Mr. Gunn had a deep appreciation for the natural world, believing that in nature students understand themselves as humans and their place in the world. He took a principled stand against slavery and spurred students (and the town at large) to examine their beliefs. In addition to the habits and skills students will need in college and life beyond, we teach them to follow Mr. Gunn’s example: to cultivate wisdom, to be trailblazers, to act with conviction, and to value character as highly as intellect and achievement. Our continuous focus on moral character development intentionally engages all members of our school in the work of creating an inclusive and equitable living and learning ecosystem. Community and citizenship are at the heart of our aspiration to both social justice and academic excellence, with individual diversity integral to the strength of that community. When we embrace difference and pursue school life with respect, equity, and compassion, we build a foundation for engaged citizens. In keeping with the tenets of our founder Frederick Gunn, who was himself a prominent abolitionist and progressive educator, The Frederick Gunn School seeks to provide a pluralistic learning environment for all inclusive of (but not limited to): culture, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, national origin, learning differences, physical difference, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic differences. We invite applicants who resonate with our mission and who will foster an environment of cultural and intellectual richness and an active participant in advancing equity and inclusion. Position Summary The Frederick Gunn School seeks an inspiring and dedicated Science Teacher with a primary focus on Physics to join our faculty for the 2026–2027 school year. The ideal candidate will teach upper-level and advanced Physics courses, such as Honors Physics and AP Physics, while also contributing to the broader science curriculum as needed. Applicants should bring deep enthusiasm for the study of Physics and a commitment to engaging students through inquiry, experimentation, and discovery. A successful candidate will be passionate about helping students develop scientific literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. As with all faculty positions at The Frederick Gunn School, this role includes responsibilities beyond the classroom—serving as a coach, house parent, and advisor within our vibrant boarding school community.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Physics or a related field required; Master’s degree strongly preferred.
Demonstrated experience teaching high school Physics, including advanced or AP-level courses.
Strong laboratory teaching experience, emphasizing safety and hands-on inquiry.
Ability to inspire and challenge students of varied interests and abilities.
Commitment to the values of a boarding school community, including participation in co-curricular and residential life.
A deep alignment with the school’s mission and dedication to fostering equity, inclusion, and community.

Responsibilities

Teach four sections of Physics, including Honors and/or AP-level courses.
Design and implement engaging lessons and laboratory experiences that promote inquiry-based learning and real-world application of Physics concepts.
Differentiate instruction to support students with diverse learning needs by offering appropriate scaffolding for those who need it and opportunities for acceleration for those ready to go further.
Approach classroom expectations, assessment, and discipline with clarity, consistency, and a growth mindset.
Emphasize laboratory safety and best practices in scientific experimentation.
Collaborate with colleagues in the Science Department and the Director of the IDEAS program to advance interdisciplinary and innovative approaches to teaching science.
Contribute to the continuous review and evolution of the science curriculum to enhance scientific literacy and align with school values.
Provide regular feedback, assessments, and individualized support to students.
Participate fully in the life of the school by serving as an advisor, coach, and house parent.
Remain current with developments in Physics and science education, fostering curiosity and awareness of contemporary scientific issues among students.