High School Science Teacher

Benefits: 401(k) Health insurance 401(k) matching Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance High School Science Teacher Position Overview Daystar Academy seeks a passionate, relational science educator who will inspire high school students to think critically about the natural world, engage deeply with inquiry-based learning, and see science as a pathway to understanding and serving others. This teacher will create a warm and rigorous learning environment grounded in the International Baccalaureate framework and Daystar’s commitment to faith, cultural engagement, and global perspective. Position Details Reports to: Director of High School and Head of Schools Work Days/Hours: 7:30 AM–3:30 PM Monday–Wednesday and Friday 7:30 AM–4:30 PM Thursday Qualifications Required: Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or a related field Secondary science teaching experience or demonstrated subject matter expertise at a college level Ability to build relational, inclusive learning environments where students feel known and valued Strongly Preferred: Secondary teacher certification in Illinois Experience with International Baccalaureate MYP and/or DP programs Familiarity with inquiry-based and concept-based instructional approaches Essential Job Functions Instructional Leadership Teach four science courses aligned with IB MYP and/or DP frameworks, that adheres to NGSS and Common Core standards Design (guided by curriculum) and deliver concept-based, inquiry-driven units that challenge students to think critically and make real-world connections Integrate faith perspectives thoughtfully into curriculum, helping students explore how science and faith inform ethical decision-making and service Develop and facilitate learning excursions (aiming for 2-4 per grade level annually) that deepen student understanding and engagement with the wider world Create unit and lesson plans as prescribed, reflecting on pedagogical practice and adjusting based on student needs and learning data Assessment & Student Growth Use formative and summative assessments aligned with IB rubrics and standards to measure student progress toward learning objectives Prepare students for internal and external DP assessments and grade those assessments according to IB rubrics Maintain student work samples and provide timely, constructive feedback that helps students understand their growth and next steps Use data regularly to inform instruction and support students across academic, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions Community & Communication Establish and maintain relational connections with students grounded in clear professional boundaries that foster trust and safety Communicate regularly with parents/guardians through email, phone calls, progress reports, and parent-teacher conferences; address academic or behavioral concerns promptly Update the Toddle platform regularly with classroom grades, highlights, and student reflections, celebrating student learning Attend and actively participate in all required parent-facing events, including conferences, showcase nights, and learning celebrations Collaboration & School Culture Host a weekly elective (during the school day) to support co-curricular learning and engagement Provide mentorship and assessment to students for Personal Project and Extended Essay, as assigned and with training Collaborate with fellow teachers to plan and implement MYP interdisciplinary units that integrate multiple perspectives and disciplines Work professionally and openly with colleagues to ensure consistency in expectations, teaching practices, and student support across the school Participate actively in school engagement events, professional development, and staff prayer to build and sustain positive school culture Supervise students during assigned times and assist with school events and responsibilities as needed Professional Practice & Growth Develop and regularly reflect on individual pedagogical goals, demonstrating a growth mindset and commitment to continuous improvement Model and uphold Daystar Distinctives and Responsive Classroom practices in classroom management and student interactions Maintain a safe, organized learning environment About Daystar Academy Daystar Academy is a faith-based, culturally-engaged, and globally-minded International Baccalaureate school serving students in grades PK–12. We intentionally build a diverse community—racially, socio-economically, and theologically—where students develop critical thinking skills, engage deeply with the world around them, and discover their calling to love, serve, and advocate for others. Our small community ensures that each student is known and valued, while our commitment to justice-oriented faith programming challenges students to live out their values in meaningful ways. Daystar Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. #J-18808-Ljbffr