Job Overview
Alaka`i O Kaua`i Charter School is seeking a passionate and dedicated science teacher to join our team of educators. The ideal candidate will be responsible for creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment where middle school students develop strong scientific inquiry skills, critical thinking abilities, and a love for discovery within a Project Based Learning (PBL) framework. This position requires a commitment to implementing successful middle school practices as outlined in “The Successful Middle School: This We Believe” by the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE).

Key Responsibilities
1. Curriculum Development and Instruction

• Develop and deliver engaging, standards-aligned lesson plans and project-based learning units that promote scientific literacy and inquiry.
• Incorporate diverse scientific texts, hands-on experiments, and multimedia resources to engage students and promote a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.
• Foster a growth mindset and lifelong love of learning through purposeful, relevant, and project-focused instructional activities.
• Instruct all branches of science: 6th grade Earth and Space Science, 7th grade Life Science, 8th grade Chemistry and Physics. Start with these possible units of study.

2. Student Engagement and Support

• Create a positive and inclusive classroom and laboratory environment that values student voice, collaboration, and respectful dialogue.
• Differentiate instruction within the PBL framework to meet the individual learning needs and interests of diverse middle school students.
• Provide timely and constructive feedback to students to support their academic growth and development as young scientists and researchers.

3. Family and Community Collaboration

• Collaborate with families to support students’ scientific development and communicate progress effectively.
• Engage parents/guardians in science-related activities and PBL public exhibitions to promote home-school connections.
• Foster partnerships with community organizations to enrich science instruction and provide authentic, real-world project opportunities.
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4. Professional Development and Growth

• Stay informed about best practices in middle school science instruction, project-based learning, and adolescent development.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching strategies, integrate technology, and improve student outcomes.
• Collaborate with colleagues to align curriculum, share resources, and promote a positive and supportive school culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Education, or related field (required); Master’s degree preferred.
• Valid Hawai’i teaching license or certification for middle school Science.
• Experience teaching science to middle school-aged students, with a strong understanding of adolescent development and inquiry-based pedagogy.
• Knowledge of AMLE successful middle school practices as outlined in “The Successful Middle School: This We Believe”.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Knowledge of AMLE Successful Middle School Practices

The science teacher should demonstrate a deep understanding and application of AMLE successful middle school practices, including:

• Educators who value working with young adolescents and are committed to their success.
• Curriculum that is challenging, exploratory, integrative, and relevant.
• Varied teaching and learning approaches, including Project Based Learning, that respond to students’ diverse needs.
• Multiple learning and teaching approaches that support intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Assessment and evaluation programs that promote quality learning.
• Organizational structures that support meaningful relationships and learning, including adult advocates for every student.
• School-wide climate that fosters belongingness and emotional and physical safety.
• Respectful and inclusive culture that values diversity.
• Comprehensive guidance and support services.
• Strong community partnerships that enhance student learning.
• Technology and information resources that support learning and teaching.

Working Conditions

The science teacher will work primarily in a classroom and laboratory setting within Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School, with opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and community engagement. The position may require occasional evening or weekend hours for school events, project exhibitions, meetings, or student support.

Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may be subject to change based on organizational needs and priorities.