Biology Teacher (Grades 7-12)

Erie 1 BOCES; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Erie 1 BOCES in Buffalo, NY is seeking a School Biology Teacher to foster understanding of cellular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human anatomy. The role focuses on standards-aligned lessons, lab skills, and scientific inquiry.

You will manage a safe lab, assess students, differentiate instruction, collaborate with colleagues, and engage families. A Bachelor's in Biology and a valid secondary science credential are required; Master’s preferred.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field; Master's preferred.
• Certification: Valid state teaching credential/license in Secondary Science/Biology (7-12).
• Experience: Prior student teaching or classroom/lab experience at high school level preferred.
• Background: Clean background check and compliance with district requirements.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and deliver standards-based biology lessons for grades 7-12.
• Design and supervise labs, assess student learning, and provide feedback.
• Maintain safe lab/classroom environment per biosafety protocols.
• Collaborate with colleagues and communicate with families about progress.

Skills

LMS proficiency

Digital tools usage

Laboratory safety

Education

Bachelor's in Biology or related

Master's preferred

Tools

Google Classroom

Canvas

Schoology

PowerSchool

Infinite Campus

Job description

Position Summary The School Biology Teacher is responsible for fostering a deep understanding of cellular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human anatomy in a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. This educator will design and deliver engaging, standards-aligned lessons that develop students' scientific inquiry, data analysis, and laboratory skills. By creating a supportive classroom and laboratory culture, the teacher will inspire students to explore the natural world and life processes, preparing them for academic success, scientific literacy, and future careers in STEM and health sciences.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Instruction & Curriculum: Plan, prepare, and execute rigorous, standards-based daily lessons (e.g., NGSS/State Science Standards) that accommodate diverse learning styles within the 7-12 grade spectrum. Utilize a variety of instructional strategies-such as hands‑on microscopy, dissections, genetic modeling, and collaborative inquiry‑to encourage active student engagement.
• Assessment & Differentiation: Design and administer both formative and summative assessments, including practical lab exams and research projects. Utilize assessment data to differentiate instruction, provide timely feedback, and support varying student abilities.
• Lab Safety & Management: Establish and maintain a safe, highly structured laboratory and classroom environment in strict accordance with chemical and biological safety protocols (OSHA/NSTA standards), ensuring proper handling and disposal of biological specimens and equipment.
• Collaboration & Communication: Actively collaborate with science department colleagues, interdisciplinary teams, and school administration to align curricula, share best practices, and support school‑wide initiatives. Maintain open, proactive communication with parents and guardians regarding student academic progress and lab safety standards.
• Professional Growth: Consistently participate in professional development opportunities to stay current with educational trends, laboratory techniques, and emerging breakthroughs in biological sciences and biotechnology.

Qualifications Education & Certification

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biological Sciences, Science Education, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Certification: Valid state teaching credential/license in Secondary Science / Life Sciences / Biology (Grades 7-12 or 9-12).
• Experience: Prior student teaching or professional classroom/lab experience at the high school level is highly desirable.
• Background: Clean background check and compliance with all state/district employment requirements.

Technical Skills

• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Proficiency with platforms like Google Classroom, Canvas, or Schoology.
• Educational & Science Tech: Ability to integrate interactive tools and digital science instruments (e.g., digital microscopes, Vernier probeware, HHMI BioInteractive, PhET Simulations, Edpuzzle) into daily instruction and laboratory work.
• Data & Grading: Competency in using digital gradebooks and student information systems (e.g., PowerSchool, Infinite Campus) to track and analyze student performance.
• Productivity Suites: Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Sheets).

Core Skills & Competencies

• Classroom & Lab Management: Proven ability to maintain a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment for high school students during both lectures and wet lab activities.
• Differentiated Instruction: Skill in modifying lessons and lab procedures to support English Language Learners (ELL), students with IEPs/504 plans, and advanced learners (e.g., AP/IB Biology students).
• Scientific Inquiry & Critical Thinking: Ability to guide students in formulating testable hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing quantitative biological data, and evaluating peer‑reviewed scientific claims.
• Communication & Safety Culture: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a strong commitment to enforcing biosafety regulations and building positive relationships with students and families.
• Cultural Competency: Sensitivity and responsiveness to diverse student backgrounds, fostering an inclusive classroom that respects multiple perspectives.

Job Attachment

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Salary: From : 36000.00

Salary: To : 43000.00

Salary Competitive : Y

Appointment Status : Permanent

Position Status : Full time

Contact Person's Name : Denise Alexander

Contact Person's Title : Chief Operating Officer

Contact Person's Phone : [phone]

Contact Person's Email : [e-mail]