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Secondary Teacher – Science
Brief Description of Position
As part of a secondary school teaching assignment, teaches one or more classes of science to pupils in grades 9-12, and assists in other school programs as assigned.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
Teaches skills, knowledge, and scientific attitudes through courses in general science, earth sciences, biology, chemistry, physics, physiology or science problems to secondary pupils, utilizing course of study adopted by the Board of Education and other appropriate learning activities. May conduct developmental or pilot science programs officially approved by the district. Instructs pupils in citizenship, basic communication skills, and other general elements of the course of study common to all teachers, as specified in state law and administrative regulations and procedures of the school district. Plans a balanced science instruction program involving demonstrations, lectures, discussions, and student experiments; organizes laboratory activities and procedures for optimum learning. Demonstrates scientific concepts by use of scientific apparatus, experiments, and standard or teacher-prepared charts, sketches, and other instructional aids. Provides individual or small group instruction in order to adapt the curriculum to the needs 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 equipment and plant and animal life. Provides for safe storage and proper use of materials, equipment, and tools to prevent loss or abuse. Makes minor adjustments and requests repairs to equipment as required. Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to promote a productive learning environment during regular class sessions, laboratory sessions, and field trips. Develops, with assistance of pupils, interest centers, models, and displays including books and similar materials to motivate learning of science. Evaluates each pupil’s growth in knowledge, skills, and scientific attitudes in course being taught and prepares progress reports. Selects and requests books, instructional aids, science equipment, chemicals, glass and supplies, and maintains inventory records as required. Participates in in-service education activities provided by the district and continues his professional growth.
Other Duties
Identifies pupil needs, and cooperates with other professional staff members in assessing and helping pupils solve health attitude, and learning problems. Participates in curriculum and other developmental programs within the school of assignment and/or on a district level. May teach under modular or flexible scheduling plan. Assists pupils in selection and developmental programs within the school of assignment and/or on a district level. Assists pupils in selection and development of individual research projects. Cooperates with school and community, and in sponsoring science fairs, clubs, and contests. Communicates with parents and school counselors on the individual pupil’s progress. Supervises pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned working day. Performs basic attendance accounting and business services as required. Shares in the sponsorship of student activities and participate in faculty committees. May plan and coordinate the work of aides, teacher assistants, or other paraprofessionals. Under the immediate direction of the site administrator and/or his designee.
Qualifications
• Credential: General Secondary, Standard Secondary (issued on a partial fulfillment basis).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree with science major or minor, including all courses needed to meet credential requirements.
• Experience: Practice teaching (6 semester hours or 120 clock hours) or two years of full-time teaching experience, at least half in science education.
• Personal Qualities: Appearance, grooming, and personality which establish a desirable example for pupils. Ability to meet district standards for physical and mental health. Better than average recommendations from student teaching supervisors or other professionals who have observed the personal characteristics, scholastic attainment, and classroom performance of the teacher.