Science Teacher

10-month, full-time position for 2026-2027 school year.

Job Summary: The junior high teacher creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment that fosters critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration and promotes social and emotional well-being. The teacher will implement research-based instructional practices, differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs, and collaborate with colleagues, families, and support staff to ensure student success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Curriculum and Instruction:
• Develop and implement engaging lessons aligned with the District 54 curriculum, Illinois Learning Standards (Next Generation Science Standards), and best practices in science instruction.
• Teach a variety of scientific concepts and skills, including life science, earth science, physical science, and engineering practices.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies and assessments to differentiate instruction and meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Create a learning environment that leverages technology and promotes scientific inquiry and real-world application of scientific concepts.
• Manage lab materials to ensure a safe and organized learning environment.
• Instruct students on proper laboratory safety procedures and protocols.
• Conduct physical and virtual science experiments and investigations following safety guidelines.

• Classroom Management:
• Establish a positive, engaging, and inclusive classroom community that fosters respect, responsibility, and a sense of belonging.
• Implement effective classroom management strategies to maintain a safe and productive learning environment.
• Teach and reinforce positive behavior expectations and social skills.
• Manage classroom resources and materials effectively.
• Assessment and Data Analysis:
• Regularly assess student learning using a variety of formative and summative assessments.
• Analyze formal and informal student data to drive instruction, differentiate learning experiences, and monitor student progress.
• Use data to identify student needs and provide targeted interventions.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Within Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), collaborate to plan and implement curriculum, share best practices, and analyze student data to support learning.
• Collaborate with appropriate school and district-wide staff to ensure necessary support for students.
• Communicate effectively with families regarding student progress, classroom activities, and school events.
• Build positive relationships with families to create and maintain a supportive home-school partnership.
• Professional Responsibilities:
• Maintain accurate student records and complete required reports.
• Participate in professional development opportunities.
• Contribute to the school community by participating in committees, faculty meetings, and school events.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the building or district administration.
• Maintain professionalism and adhere to district policies and procedures.
• Participate reflectively in the teacher evaluation process in order to grow capacity as an educator.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by building or district administration.

Minimum Requirements:

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License with:
• Elementary Education endorsement OR Secondary Education endorsement with a Middle School endorsement and Science endorsement.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to handle or feel materials. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Salary : See Certified Salary Schedule, benefit information