Position Purpose:

Under the general supervision of the building principal, to develop students’ knowledge and understanding in one or more fields of science, including: general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, and physics.  Science teachers develop students skills and abilities in scientific methods and problem-solving and develop students’ ability to apply science in the solution of practical problems.

Essential Functions:

The following description is illustrative of the tasks and responsibilities associated with this position.  It is not meant to be an inclusive list of every task or responsibility.

• Develops and administers the district’s science curriculum in one or more fields of science (including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, and physics) consistent with district goals and objectives.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Designs learning activities to demonstrate the application of science to everyday existence, including scientific research projects, demonstrations, experiments, and laboratory activities. 
• Instructs students in the proper use and care of scientific equipment, chemicals, and plant and animal life. 
• Promotes critical and creative thinking and analysis in all related subject areas. 
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
• Maintains familiarity with district and state standardized tests for the purpose of adapting curriculum to maximize student achievement on such tests.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms to the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom. 
• Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
• Maintains a regular and predictable attendance history while employed by the district
• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Equipment:

• Uses standard school and office equipment such as personal computers, printers, copy and fax machines, and telephones.
• May use scientific equipment such as microscopes, test tubes, beakers, Bunsen burners, scales...etc. depending on the specific assignment.

Travel Requirements:

• Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of current teaching methods and education pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of a wide range of science subject areas, including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, physics, and other related areas (e.g., mathematics).
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards:

• Works in standard school building environment.
• For a complete list of the physical and mental demands needed to perform the essential functions for this position, please see the Summary of Physical, Sensory, and Environmental Requirements.

Qualification Profile:

• Certification:  Nebraska teaching certificate with an endorsement in science.
• Education:  Bachelors degree in education from an accredited college or university.
• Experience:  Successful prior teaching experience (preferred).

FLSA Status:  Exempt