High School Science Teacher

Kentwood Public Schools; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Kentwood Public Schools is seeking a High School Science Teacher in Grand Rapids, MI. The role involves delivering comprehensive science instruction across general science, biology, chemistry, and physics, aligned with district curricula, and supporting student growth through data-driven instruction.

The teacher will develop engaging lessons, differentiate for diverse learners, manage a safe classroom, assess progress, and maintain records while collaborating with staff and involving families in

Qualifications

• Valid Michigan teaching certificate is required.
• DX or DI Certification for Science is required.
• EL certification or experience with EL students preferred.
• NGSS professional development preferred.
• Prior science teaching experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teach knowledge and skills in general science and specific science domains as per curriculum.
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs.
• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans and learning activities.
• Assess student progress and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.
• Maintain records of attendance, grading, and student performance.
• Communicate with parents and involve them in student learning.
• Collaborate with colleagues and participate in school committees.

Skills

Science teaching

Differentiated instruction

Classroom management

Student assessment

Curriculum development

Education

Michigan teaching certificate

DX/DI Science certification

EL certification

Tools

Educational technology

Job description

Position: High School Science Teacher

Anticipated Start Date: January 4, 2027

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' skills and competence in one or more fields of science, including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, and physics; develops students skills and abilities in scientific methods and problem-solving, as well as an understanding of the application of science in the solution of practical problems.

Essential Functions

• Teaches knowledge and skills in one or more fields of science, including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, and physics, in accordance with district curriculum.
• Promotes critical and creative thinking and analysis in all related subject areas.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials for subject area, and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Demonstrated ability to differentiate instruction, by using a variety of styles, and inspire mixed culture and ability classes by creating challenging and engaging learning opportunities for all students
• 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.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
• 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, maintains inventory records, and ensures equipment is in good working order.
• Regular, reliable and punctual attendance

Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note

The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon 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 communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Able to develop and maintain positive relationships with staff and administration.
• 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.
• Have an understanding of a 'learning styles' approach to instruction and a respect for students' multiple intelligences.
• Able to demonstrate an understanding of curriculum development processes.
• Demonstrate an understanding of working with standards.
• Ability to work in an economically, culturally and racially diverse environment.

Qualifications

• Valid Michigan teaching certificate.
• DX or DI Certification for Science
• Must meet State of Michigan Professional Development requirement.
• EL certification or experience working with EL students preferred.
• Professional development in NGSS preferred.
• Successful prior teaching experience in Science Education preferred.

Physical And Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Ada Requirements: The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, talk, hear (in a quiet or noisy environment), taste and smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust/focus.
• Work Environment: The noise level in the work environment is usually loud to moderate.
• Mental Functions: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to compare, analyze, communicate both orally and in writing, copy, coordinate, instruct, compute, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile and negotiate.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Kentwood Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status in its employment decisions or the provision of services.