Computer Science Instructor

AppleTree; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization is seeking passionate Computer Science instructors to inspire high school students in Philadelphia. This role involves teaching Java programming and integrating math and physics concepts while serving as a mentor and role model. You'll engage with students from underinvested communities, helping them build confidence and skills for success in tech fields. Join a dedicated team focused on breaking the cycle of generational poverty through education and workforce success. If you're enthusiastic about advancing equity in education and have a knack for teaching, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science or related field.
• Familiarity with Java programming and teaching math/physics.

Responsibilities

• Co-teach classes for high school students using provided curriculum.
• Mentor students and help them with coding projects.
• Administer assessments and provide feedback to improve learning.

Skills

Java Programming

Teaching Skills

Mentoring

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Education

Pursuing a degree in Computer Science

STEM Education

Engineering

Tools

Google Suite

Microsoft Office

Job description

Who We Are:

Heights Philadelphia is a new kind of organization, an Economic Mobility Catalyst. Heights is committed to breaking the cycle of generational poverty in Philadelphia by creating pathways to educational and workforce success for low-income, Black and Brown, and first-generation-to-college students. These pathways are the foundation of a more equitable and prosperous future for the city.

Heights serves more than 3,000 students from middle school to career with staff embedded in 23 schools across the School District of Philadelphia and partnerships with 13 colleges and universities. Through college and career advising, industry-aligned programming, transformative partnerships, and a community of support, Heights transforms opportunities for success.

About this Role:

Our Computer Science instructors are the core of our BLI Computer Science Academy, held on-campus at Penn, teaching and serving as near-peer role models for our high school students. This program is a key part of the Heights partnership with Penn Engineering. Our Blended Learning Initiative (BLI) Computer Science program aims to fundamentally broaden access and forge pathways into computer science, technology, and engineering among Philadelphia students from underinvested communities.

Classes will include Intro and Intermediate Java for high school students. The curriculum is part of our AP Computer Science A curriculum, as this program is part of preparing students for AP CS A, and ultimately success in tech majors and careers. Some class sections will also include math and/or physics lessons, as we recognize the importance of building students’ skills and confidence in these subjects as well to pursue CS or Engineering majors.

Heights will hold instructor orientation and training on 1-2 days between June 9 – 17.

You’ll be responsible for:

1. Co-teaching a class of approximately 20 students using our curriculum materials for 4 hours per day
2. Helping students write and troubleshoot code and work on coding projects
3. Helping students to see connections and applications of concepts with their interests and goals
4. Serving as a mentor to students, building rapport with them, and sharing your experience and enthusiasm for computer science and/or related fields
5. Participating in periodic panel discussions on topics related to getting students excited about pursuing a CS, Engineering, or Tech major and career, learning what college is like, and similar topics
6. Attending instructor team meetings, 1 afternoon per week between 3:05-4:05pm
7. Monitoring student progress, attendance, and behavior, conducting student outreach (via text/email) and enforcing program rules as needed
8. Administering pre and post diagnostic assessments and surveys
9. Providing feedback to refine and improve student learning and experience in our program
10. Teaching and integrating math and/or physics modules within your class (IF teaching a class section with math and/or physics)

About you:

1. Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, STEM Education, or a related field
2. Familiarity with computer programming, Java preferred
3. Familiarity with teaching math and physics concepts (IF teaching a class section with math and/or physics)
4. Prior experience working with adolescents, preferably in an instructional setting and in an urban educational setting
5. Interest in advancing equity and access to Computer Science among students from underinvested communities
6. Enthusiastic and engaging
7. Willing to take initiative
8. Patient, flexible, adaptable
9. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills
10. Personal and/or professional background related to understanding the experience of our Black, Latino, and first-generation scholars

Heights employees:

1. Must meet expectations to report in-person on a schedule determined by their direct manager and/or the Vice President of the team.
2. Must meet PA State background check requirements [PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse and FBI Fingerprint Check] at hire and every five years thereafter.
3. Strong orientation to customer service, particularly with regard to students, partners and colleagues
4. Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office and related applications, as well as use of general office equipment (phones, computers, copiers, etc)
5. Fluency in the use of data and data systems. Maintains appropriate engagement with data entry, reporting and review.
6. Must adhere to COVID safety guidelines as established by Heights and/or its partners.
7. Office-based staff should be mindful of the organization’s strong recommendation that staff maintain up to date with COVID vaccination and boosters.
8. Site-based staff must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and must submit to any COVID testing or other health screenings as required by the Department of Human Services and/or the School District of Philadelphia.
9. Must be able to work in a busy, often complex work environment that is generally climate controlled.
10. Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds unassisted on an occasional basis.
11. Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
12. Must be able to stand or walk for long periods of time.
13. Access to reliable transportation required