Upper School Science Teacher (Physics)

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School•Columbia, SC

About The Position

The Upper School physics teacher is responsible for teaching physics courses, including introductory and AP classes and electives. The ideal candidate is also comfortable teaching introductory chemistry and/or robotics. The teacher designs developmentally appropriate curricula and plans for coherent teaching and assessment; maintains lab materials and equipment safely; supports students conducting independent scientific research; and fosters an engaged classroom environment. The role includes advising students, communicating with students and parents, preparing student reports and advisee conference notes, and participating in parent-teacher conferences as needed. The teacher also contributes to professional development, Winterim experiences, school committees, after-school activities, the cross-divisional Science Department, and the School's Episcopal identity and commitment to diversity and multicultural education. The position is primarily classroom-based, with occasional field trips, and is housed in a lab classroom in the Robinson Center for Science and Math.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required.
Teaching experience required.
Physics background required.
Passion for working with teenagers and a thorough understanding of the developmental needs of high school students.
Energy, empathy, flexibility, and collaboration.
Good organizational and communication skills.
Ability to use a variety of assessment techniques and demonstrate strong instructional and classroom-management skills.
Experience with Learning Management Systems, Google Suite tools, and technological resources supporting in-person or remote teaching.
Understanding of pedagogy and experiential learning practices.
Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred.
Experience in secondary education preferred.
Ability to teach additional subjects such as chemistry, computer science, or robotics preferred.

Responsibilities

Teach physics, including introductory and AP classes and electives, and other courses as assigned.
Design a developmentally appropriate curriculum and plan for well-articulated teaching and assessment.
Manage and maintain lab materials and equipment in a way that promotes safety.
Support students in independent scientific research.
Maintain an engaged classroom environment to support student learning.
Maintain regular contact with students and parents about student performance and behavior.
Participate in parent-teacher conferences as necessary.
Write individualized advisee conference notes and student reports for each student at required periods during the year.
Serve as an advisor and complete related activities and assignments.
Pursue professional development opportunities.
Help plan and chaperone weeklong Winterim experiences.
Serve on Exhibition Committees, Upper School Committees, and school-wide committees as necessary.
Attend and support after-school activities and programs, such as concerts, theater, and class programs.
Support the School's Episcopal identity and practices.
Support the School's commitment to diversity and multicultural education.
Work collaboratively with colleagues in the Upper School and across divisions.
Serve as an active member of the cross-divisional Science Department.
Complete required annual HR trainings, including CPR, first aid, mandatory reporting, and hazardous-materials handling.