Earth Space Science Teacher - Highland Park High School

REPORTS TO:  Building Principal

POSITION PURPOSE:
Topeka Public Schools science educators demonstrate a commitment to learning for all students by maintaining organized- student-centered classrooms- by presenting content-rich and standards-based lessons and activities- by meeting individual needs through the use of assessments and data- and by using a variety of instructional strategies that are reflective of current best practices and research.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The classroom teacher will meet all qualifications and behavior standards as set by the Kansas Department of Education.  In accordance with certification requirements and the performance expectations of Topeka Public Schools- all classroom teachers shall meet the following employment criteria:

• Minimum of a Bachelor`s degree in science education and achieving a passing score on the state required Praxis test.
• ESOL endorsement preferred.
• Possession of a valid Kansas Teaching license for grades 9 – 12 and endorsement to teach Earth Space Science.
• Strong content knowledge in the area of Science at the secondary level.
• Record of successful completion of successful teaching experience and/or student teaching experience.
• Consistent- reliable attendance is required.

PHYSICAL/EMOTIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  (The incumbent may be required to use the following skills and abilities during any part of the working day.)

While performing the duties of this job- the employee is frequently required to walk- sit- talk- and hear.  The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision- distance vision- depth perception- and the ability to adjust focus.  The employee is required to interact with staff and to meet demands from several people.  The employee is responsible for the work output of others.  On occasion- the employee may be required to work extended hours.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Teaches knowledge and skills in earth space science to students utilizing the course of study prescribed by the District-approved curriculum.
• Develops lesson plans and appropriate instructional aids stressing the scientific method and relevant laboratory learning methods.
• Plans and demonstrates a balanced earth space science instructional program involving demonstrations- lectures- discussions- and student experiments; organizes laboratory activities and procedures for optimum learning.
• Provides individual and small group instruction in order to adapt curriculum to the needs of students with varying abilities and to accommodate a variety of instructional activities.
• Establishes and maintains standards of student behavior required to provide an orderly and productive environment.
• Instructs students in proper care and use of materials; organizes storage areas and controls use of materials to prevent loss or abuse.
• Evaluates each student’s performance and growth in knowledge and understanding- and prepares progress reports.
• Assists in the selection and requisition of instructional materials- and maintains inventory control.
• Maintains professional competence through professional development education activities provided by the District and/or in self-selected professional growth activities.
• Communicates with students- parents- and school counselors on student progress.
• Cooperates in school-wide supervision of students during out-of-classroom activities.
• Participates in faculty and/or District committees and the sponsorship of student activities.

Terms of Employment:

9 months; salary and work year to be determined by the Board of Education.

Evaluation:

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board policy on evaluation of professional certified employees.

Significant associations:

The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor.

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