Job Description

Middle School Science Teacher at Uncommon Schools summary:

The Middle School Science Teacher at Uncommon Schools delivers NGSS-aligned science instruction focused on inquiry-based learning and student engagement in grades 6-8. The role involves collaborating with colleagues, analyzing student data to inform instruction, and fostering positive relationships with students and families to support academic and socio-emotional growth. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development and work in high-performing urban public charter schools committed to college readiness and equity.

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators , offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

Uncommon Middle School Science teachers work in grade-level teams to prepare all students with the tools and knowledge to critically engage in the field of science. At the heart of all Science courses is a love for the subject and inquiry-based learning, including a robust focus on student discourse and the science practices. Science teachers employ a variety of instructional strategies to develop a passion for scientific questioning and analysis in their students. Our teachers strive for subject mastery and have a keen sense of the socio-emotional changes middle schoolers experience. At the conclusion of eighth grade, students are prepared for the academic autonomy and college preparatory focus of our high schools. 

Responsibilities

1. Instruction

• You'll teach an interdisciplinary, NGSS-aligned curriculum that includes analysis of key areas including but not limited to: Climate and Earth’s systems, the cosmos, matter and energy transformations, electricity and magnetism, and molecular and ecological systems.
• You'll develop students’ practices of questioning, modeling, constructing explanations, data analysis, argumentation, and planning and conducting interactive labs.
• You'll use your love of science to foster confidence and meaningful engagement with the subject for students.
• You'll cultivate an awareness of the interconnected nature of fields of science (e.g., ecosystems, climate change, and lunar phases) and our local and global community.

2. Data Analysis

• You'll meet weekly with your principal and/or instructional coach to analyze and respond to trends in student work samples and assessments.
• You'll learn and implement strategies to differentiate instruction for all learners in your classroom.

3. School Culture

• You’ll build positive relationships with students to ensure they feel seen, loved, and heard.
• You’ll partner with students’ families to ensure appropriate resources are available to support their child's learning needs.
• You'll engage in practice-based professional development, mentorship, and coaching sessions.
• You'll participate in weekly, school-wide meetings to cultivate community, model our core values, and encourage student achievement.
• You'll partner with your grade level team to develop academic goals and practice instructional strategies.

Qualifications

• A demonstrated commitment to supporting students’ social emotional and academic development
• An enthusiasm for collaborating with internal and external partners in the best interest of students
• A self-directed learner who solicits and implements feedback to improve outcomes and achieve objectives
• Required Experience:
  • A demonstrated interest in impacting K-12 students in urban schools and communities (1-2 years experience preferred).
  • Academic expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or other related fields of study. 
  • Prior to the start of employment, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Certification is not required to be hired at Uncommon, but you do need to meet NY state certification eligibility requirements. To meet these requirements, you must enroll in a teacher preparation program and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher during your employment with us if you do not have a degree in education. Uncommon Schools teachers are required to become certified in the state of New York within a reasonable period after beginning employment.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $50,000 to $64,700.

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full-time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full-time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $50,000. 

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer). 
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • 403(b) retirement savings program + employer match
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE .

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.

Keywords:

middle school teacher, science teacher, NGSS curriculum, urban education, inquiry-based learning, STEM education, student engagement, professional development, charter schools, student data analysis

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