Science Teacher - High School Chemistry

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. We invest deeply in our educators , offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Uncommon High School Science teachers work collaboratively across the network to prepare all students with the tools and knowledge to critically engage in the field of science and develop them into self-directed learners. At the heart of all Science courses is inquiry-based learning, including a robust focus on student discourse and the science practices. Science teachers employ a variety of instructional strategies to develop a passion for scientific questioning and analysis in their students. Our teachers prepare all students such that they have the choice to study and excel in any STEM discipline. We prepare all students to be citizen scientists that have the tools and knowledge to critically engage in the field of science regardless of their university major or professional career. Our teachers become experts in their course content and have a keen sense of how to motivate and inspire high school students.

You’ll teach a curriculum that includes, but is not limited to, analysis of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Sciences that prepares students for Advanced Placement (AP) and collegiate level coursework.

You’ll develop students’ practices skills of questioning, modeling, constructing explanations, data analysis, argumentation, and planning and conducting interactive labs.

You’ll create an environment where students feel confident using their voice to engage in scientific discourse.

You will facilitate student‑led discourse, during which students use evidence to make sophisticated claims and synthesize and critique arguments.

You’ll facilitate student‑led inquiry of various scientific topics and engage students in lab and project‑based performance tasks.

You’ll work with the Science department to determine academic and engagement goals for students.

Data Analysis

School Culture

You’ll partner with students’ families to ensure appropriate resources are available to support their child’s learning needs.

You’ll engage in practice‑based professional development, mentorship, and coaching sessions.

You’ll participate in weekly, school‑wide meetings to cultivate community, model our core values, and encourage student achievement.

You’ll partner with your grade level team to develop academic goals and practice instructional strategies.

A demonstrated commitment to supporting students’ social emotional and academic development

A demonstrated interest in impacting K‑12 students in urban schools and communities (1-2 years experience preferred).

Academic expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or other related fields of study.

Prior to the start of employment, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Teacher certification is not a prerequisite for consideration at Uncommon Schools in the state of NJ, but you do need to meet NJ state certification eligibility requirements (a final undergraduate or graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 for graduates on or after 9/1/16, or 2.75 if you graduated prior to 9/1/16). We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Our Approach to AI and Your Application
At Uncommon Schools, we value thoughtful use of technology. Every application is reviewed by a member of our Recruitment Team, and we are committed to understanding the person behind the application.

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full‑time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full‑time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $56,000.

Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and ~10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer).

Extensive, best‑in‑class training and development

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre‑tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)

Retirement benefits available based on role eligibility

Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. J-18808-Ljbffr Uncommon Schools