Science Teacher (MS Biology)

Position Summary

At Amber Charter School, our Science Teachers ignite curiosity and inspire discovery. You’ll bring learning to life through hands-on, inquiry-based lessons that connect science to the real world and meet the diverse needs of every student. Guided by Amber’s mission and values, you’ll foster critical thinking, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning — helping every child see themselves as a scientist.

*This role is based at our Amber Charter Kingsbridge Middle School located at 532 W 215th St, New York, NY 10034. Candidates should be comfortable working with grades 5-8. 

Essential Responsibilities

Curriculum Implementation:

• Develop and implement lesson plans that align with the school's curriculum and educational standards
• Foster a love for learning through creative and interactive teaching methods.
• Develop age-appropriate physical education lesson plans and activities that align with educational standards and objectives
• Instruct students in various physical activities, sports, and games, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all participants
• Teach students fundamental skills and techniques related to sports and physical fitness

Classroom Management:

• Establish and maintain a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere conducive to learning
• Implement effective behavior management strategies to ensure a respectful and focused learning environment.
• Prioritize safety by enforcing proper equipment usage and supervising students during physical activities. Promote health and wellness through discussions on nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices

Student Assessment:

• Assess students' progress through regular evaluations and provide constructive feedback
• Collaborate with colleagues to analyze assessment data and adjust teaching strategies accordingly
• Maintain accurate records of student attendance, performance, and progress in physical education classes

Parent Communication:

• Maintain open and regular communication with parents or guardians regarding student progress, achievements, and areas for improvement
• Organize and participate in parent-teacher conferences

Collaboration:

• Work collaboratively with other teachers, specialists, and support staff to create a cohesive and supportive educational team
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills

Incorporate Technology:

• Integrate technology into the curriculum to enhance and support the learning experience
• Ensure students are proficient in essential digital skills
• Stay current with developments in physical education and incorporate innovative teaching methods and technologies into the curriculum

Cultural Competence:

• Foster a culturally competent and inclusive learning environment that respects and celebrates diversity
• Incorporate diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum
• Foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and fair play among students during team sports and group activities

Professional Development:

• Engage in continuous professional development to stay current with educational trends and best practices
• Pursue opportunities for further education and training

Required Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree. 
• Strong knowledge of pedagogical theories, child development, and effective teaching strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to create a positive, safe, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Technological proficiency for incorporating digital tools into teaching.
• Familiarity with high-quality curriculum programs.
• A high degree of comfort and confidence planning and implementing rigorous, engaging, and effective instruction.
• Capacity to develop strong relationships based on trust, respect, effective communication, and common goals.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple obligations and initiatives, strong attention to detail, and excellent time management.
• Strong command of all Microsoft Office and Google drive programs.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Completion and clearance of  pre-employment Fingerprinting and Reference check process.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Experience and Qualifications

• 2 years experience as a lead teacher in a middle school setting.
• Masters Degree in the field of education. 
• NYS teaching certification (Science Grades 5-9, Science Grades 7-12).

• Ability to speak, write, and understand Spanish.

Amber’s Expectations

• Regular attendance and punctuality.  
• Maintain a professional appearance. 
• Organizational fit for Amber culture, that is, exhibit the Amber Traits of Achievement, Community, Responsibility, Honesty, and Respect.  

 Equipment

• Laptop, Promethean board, classroom, and office equipment 

Work Schedule

• 10-month work schedule
• Amber Charter Kingsbridge Middle school hours 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Work Environment/Physical Effort:  

• Regularly required to sit, stand for long periods of time, walk, climb stairs, speak loudly and clearly, visually observe, hear, operate a computer, and other classroom, school, and office equipment, reach with hands and arms, bend down, and must occasionally lift, move and/or support up to 20 pounds. Work is being performed in a traditional multi-floor school environment with limited to no elevator access.

Compensation

Amber Charter Schools strictly follow a salary schedule for each role to ensure our continued commitment towards pay equity. The expected salary range for this role is $$63,781- $106,246,  depending on verified relevant work experience, highest level of completed education, and required certifications and/or licenses for the role. This is an exempt position.