Full-Time and Permanent; Exempt; 7.33 Hours/Day; 200 Days/Year; 10 Months/Year

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Baccalaureate degree with a Major or Minor in science area.
• Tuberculin Skin Test certifying that the individual is free of contagious tuberculosis.
• Eligible for, or in possession of, appropriate Virginia Teaching Certificate.
• Above average amount of walking, bending, standing, stooping, lifting in a classroom environment and laboratories.
• Work involves exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals, gasses and other solutions in laboratories and normal everyday risks in the classroom.
• In-depth knowledge of the subject(s) to be taught.
• Demonstrates knowledge of current principles and methodologies of effective pedagogy, including the latest scientific research techniques, technological instrumentation, and multi-media research tools used in the subject area.
• Ability to deliver articulate oral presentations and written reports and effectively interact with pupils, colleagues, administrators, and classified employees.

Nature of Position

• Teaches skills knowledge and scientific attitudes through courses in general science, earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, or oceanography (or other as assigned).
• This is specialized teaching work performed in a classroom.
• The teacher is directly responsible to the principal or his/her designee.
• Instructs pupils in course content matter specified by Virginia Standards of Learning and adheres to policies and procedures of the school district.
• Plans a student-centered science program based on the inquiry approach to active learning, lively, interactive discussions, and organized laboratory investigations for optimum learning to include fifty percent laboratory experience for students.
• Demonstrates scientific concepts by use of scientific apparatus, experiments, and technological tools and applications appropriate to the course content.
• Provides individual, cooperative, or small group instruction in order to adapt the curriculum to the individual needs and learning styles of pupils and to accommodate circumstances where a variety of projects and experiments are being worked on simultaneously.
• Instructs pupils in proper use, care, and safe handling of chemicals, science and technology equipment, and plant and animal life.
• Provides for safe storage and proper use of materials, and tools. Reports and requests repairs to equipment as required.
• Establishes and maintains high standards of pupil behavior for a productive learning environment during class sessions, laboratory sessions, and field trips.
• Provides a variety of assessment opportunities for students to demonstrate deep understanding/mastery of the course work.
• Selects and requests science books, instructional aids, equipment, chemicals, and supplies, and maintains inventory records as required.
• Maintains professional competence through professional development opportunities provided by the district and/or self-selected professional growth activities.
• Identifies pupils’ diverse needs, and cooperates with other professional staff members in helping students maximize their individual learning potential.
• Participates in curriculum development and other programs, and in professional organizations.
• Assists students in selection and development of individual and group scientific research projects.
• Cooperates with school administration in providing science displays and programs for the school and community, and in sponsoring science activities.
• Maintains on-going communication with school guidance counselors and parents on pupil progress.
• Supervises pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned workday.
• Participates in faculty committees and sponsorship of student activities.
• Participates cooperatively with the principal or designee in the evaluation process in conformance with district guidelines.
• In addition to instructional duties, he/she will stay current on scientific research findings, maintain professional standards; serve on committees to advise on non-academic affairs such as school discipline, honors, awards, assemblies; and participate in local and national science professional organizations.