Science Teacher

Englewood Schools • Denver, CO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Colorado's Finest High School of Choice (CFHSC) was established in 1980 with the purpose of educating students who were unsuccessful in a traditional high school setting. The name of the school was selected by the original student body and is meant as an aspirational statement. CFHSC currently serves around 300 students, 70% of which come to Finest from outside the district. Ninety-five percent of students are considered ''at risk'' as defined by the Colorado Department of Education. The school's mission is to provide diverse educational opportunities for students to earn a quality high school diploma in an accepting and supportive community. We strive for students to be KNOWN WELL and TAUGHT WELL. The vision is to live up to the school's name by providing the finest education and inspiring students seeking a fresh start. The ultimate goal being to help students choose their "Finest Future." The ability to teach all Science content areas is a plus Honor students' identities, cultures, and abilities while breaking down barriers to a safe and equitable learning experience. Engage high school students by effectively using research-based best practices in science instruction. Plan lessons, select materials; prepare assignments, tests, and discussion topics. Assist students with understanding and appreciating advanced science, lead discussions, encourage and provide feedback. Individuals must be familiar with the Gradual Release of Responsibility Instructional Model and be able to plan lessons using the Backward By Design format. Work as a team member in professional learning communities, utilize data driven instruction, and create class curriculum based on state standards. The focus of this position is student growth, proficiency, and preparing students for the future. Encourage parent/guardian involvement in student learning through open houses, volunteering, parent/teacher conferences, etc. Develop and promote good community relations among stakeholders. Part of this assignment is also to be a "Family Teacher" to a group of students that are assigned to you when they enter Finest. Although each teacher instructs classes in their core area of expertise, their first priority is to be a family teacher to their students. Family develops the personal connection between teachers and students to help each student become more invested in the school and its culture. As a family teacher you will: Create a welcoming, trusting environment that honors each student's unique background, and their own personal story. Advise students regarding class schedules and credits needed for graduation. Build strong relational foundations to support your family students as they progress towards graduation and face challenges in their path (academic, social, emotional, physical, mental, or other challenges outside of school) Model the values of Finest for your family students: accountability, trust, kindness, communication, respect, and honesty Hold students accountable for meeting the "3 Golden Rules" of Finest Work collaboratively with parents / guardians, counselors, other teachers and administration to support students when they struggle and provide encouragement when they make positive, healthy choices. Be an advocate for your family students and help build their own self-advocacy skills Monitor, document, and communicate student progress towards graduation (by week and by hexster).

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Science education (required).
• Valid Colorado Driver's License.
• Valid Colorado Teaching License with a Secondary Science endorsement.
• Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability in response to change.
• Possesses computer and technology skills.
• Effectively works with students from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
• Collaborates well with supervisors and co-workers.
• Capable of understanding and following both complex oral and written instructions.
• Able to perform duties independently with minimal supervision.
• Communicates effectively with the School District community.
• Skilled in analysis, instruction, negotiation, coordination, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal interactions.
• Proficient in comparing, computing, synthesizing, and evaluating information.
• Meets attendance standards and works the necessary hours to fulfill essential responsibilities.
• Maintains confidentiality.
• Upholds a generally positive attitude.
• Complies with all District policies and procedures.
• Adheres to federal and state laws, regulations, and policies.
• Frequent lifting 5 (five) to 10 (ten) pounds.
• Frequent sitting, bending, walking, and standing.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Science(preferred).
• Ability to teach all levels of Chemistry (AP, Honors, and traditional).
• Emphasis on physical sciences.
• Career Technical Education certification (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Create a positive learning environment and effective management structures to purposefully promote and foster effective teaching, learning, and student achievement.
• Create an instructional learning environment that establishes routines and provides for student engagement through questioning, speculation, and originality.
• Design, develop, and evaluate authentic learning experiences and assessments incorporating contemporary tools and resources to maximize content learning in context and to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes aligned with 21st Century learning.
• Demonstrate mastery of content and make curriculum rigorous, relevant, and applicable to the real world.
• Integrate and align Colorado Academic Standards/NGSS, instructional objectives, instructional strategies, learning activities, materials, resources and assessments and differentiate lesson planning based on individual student needs.
• Collaborate with specialists and provide unique learning opportunities and research based effective practices for students with special needs.
• Promote a learning environment respecting the dignity of the child that is perceived by students as fair and consistent.
• Ensure all classroom processes, procedures and data collection are highly organized and effective with optimal use of instructional time.
• Motivate, engage, and empower learners to track and monitor their learning.
• Collaborate with educators from other grades or subject areas to establish links between disciplines and influence school-wide curriculum and teaching practice.
• Use Data-Driven Instruction to analyze student outcome data to make instructional decisions
• Provide quality, accurate, constructive, corrective, specific and timely feedback to students that encourages them to perform at their highest level.
• Effectively communicate with parents and staff about student's progress and opportunities.
• Actively participate in all staff meetings, PLCs, and team activities.
• Use professional Code of Ethics and standards of practice to guide ethical decision-making in practice.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.
• Possible supervision of support personnel.
• Conduct supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
• Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to interview participation, training/development, assign and direct work, performance feedback, address complaints and resolve problems.
• Prioritize and schedule work tasks independently.
• Create and implement effective and efficient process management strategies (e.g., procedures, instructional groups, transition materials and supplies).
• Maintain accurate records in accordance with professional standards, state guidelines, and school system policy.
• Review processes for improvement opportunities and make changes as needed to ensure quality of instruction.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO), medical, dental, and vision insurance, and pre-tax savings options through Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), with monthly District contributions for HSA.
• The costs for short and long-term disability programs are 100% covered, which provide financial protection in the event of illness or injury.
• Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides counseling and support services, and our wellness programs are designed to promote a healthy lifestyle.
• comprehensive retirement plan through the Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA), as well as additional retirement savings options including 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans.
• Optional voluntary plans are also available for life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), critical illness, cancer, and accidents, offering additional layers of security.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level