BLI Instructor, Computer Science
About The Position
Our Computer Science instructors are the core of our BLI Computer Science Academy, held on-campus at Penn, teaching and serving as near-peer role models for our high school students. This program is a key part of the Heights partnership with Penn Engineering. Our Blended Learning Initiative (BLI) Computer Science program aims to fundamentally broaden access and forge pathways into computer science, technology, and engineering among Philadelphia students from underinvested communities. Classes will include Intro and Intermediate Java for high school students. This program is part of preparing students for college-level Computer Science, and ultimately success in tech majors and careers. Class sections will also include Math Enrichment or Intro Physics lessons, recognizing the importance of building students’ skills and confidence in these subjects to pursue CS or Engineering majors. Heights will hold instructor orientation and training on 2-3 days between June 10 - 24.
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, STEM Education, or a related field
- Familiarity with computer programming, Java preferred
- Familiarity with teaching math or physics conceptsPrior experience working with adolescents, preferably in an instructional setting and in an urban educational setting
- Interest in advancing equity and access to Computer Science among students from underinvested communities
- Enthusiastic and engaging
- Willing to take initiative
- Patient, flexible, adaptable
- Strong leadership and problem-solving skills
- Personal and/or professional background related to understanding the experience of our Black, Latino, and first-generation scholars
- Heights employees: Must meet expectations to report in-person on a schedule determined by their direct manager and/or the Vice President of the team.
- Must meet PA State background check requirements [PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse and FBI Fingerprint Check] at hire and every five years thereafter.
- Strong orientation to customer service, particularly with regard to students, partners and colleagues
- Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office and related applications, as well as use of general office equipment (phones, computers, copiers, etc)
- Fluency in the use of data and data systems. Maintains appropriate engagement with data entry, reporting and review.
- Must adhere to COVID safety guidelines as established by Heights and/or its partners. Office-based staff should be mindful of the organization’s strong recommendation that staff maintain up to date with COVID vaccination and boosters. Site-based staff must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and must submit to any COVID testing or other health screenings as required by the Department of Human Services and/or the School District of Philadelphia.
- Must be able to work in a busy, often complex work environment that is generally climate controlled.
- Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds unassisted on an occasional basis.
- Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
- Must be able to stand or walk for long periods of time.
- Access to reliable transportation required
Responsibilities
- Co-teaching a class of approximately 20 students using our curriculum materials for 4 hours per day
- Helping students write and troubleshoot code and work on coding projects
- Helping students to see connections and applications of concepts with their interests and goals
- Helping students develop quantitative problem-solving skills
- Serving as a mentor to students, building rapport with them, and sharing your experience and enthusiasm for computer science and/or related fields
- Participating in periodic panel discussions on topics related to getting students excited about pursuing a CS, Engineering, or Tech major and career, learning what college is like, and similar topics
- Attending instructor team meetings, 1 afternoon per week between 3:05-4:05pm
- Monitoring student progress, attendance, and behavior, conducting student outreach (via text/email) and enforcing program rules as needed
- Administering pre and post diagnostic assessments and surveys
- Providing feedback to refine and improve student learning and experience in our program
- Teaching and integrating math and/or physics modules within your class (IF teaching a class section with math and/or physics)
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
