Middle School Special Education Science Teacher

ELMWOOD PARK BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHOOL DISTRICT; Elmwood Park (NJ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

ELMWOOD PARK BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHOOL DISTRICT is seeking a dedicated Science Teacher for the 2026/2027 academic year. Under the general supervision of the School Principal, the Teacher will develop students' skills in various science fields including biology and chemistry.

This role involves creating lesson plans, conducting assessments, and promoting critical thinking. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in education and New Jersey State Certification.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in an education discipline applicable to the teaching assignment.
• New Jersey State Certification as a Science Teacher or as required for the position.

Responsibilities

• Develops students' skills in one or more fields of science.
• Organizes and maintains accurate record-keeping for student activities.
• Teaches knowledge and skills in accordance with district curriculum.

Skills

Knowledge of current teaching methods

Effective communication

Ability to engage in self-evaluation

Education

Bachelor's degree in education discipline

New Jersey State Certification as a Science Teacher

Tools

Standard office equipment

Computer network systems

Job description

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, the teacher develops students' skills and competence in one or more fields of science, including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, and physics. The teacher develops students' skills and abilities in scientific methods and problem‑solving, and fosters an understanding of the application of science in solving practical problems.

Essential Functions

• Teaches knowledge and skills in one or more fields of science 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 the subject area, and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize available instruction time.
• Designs learning activities to demonstrate the application of science to everyday life, 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 students' needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small‑group instruction as needed.
• Maintains familiarity with district and State standardized tests to adapt curriculum and maximize student achievement on such tests.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and stay current 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.

Additional Duties

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

Equipment

• Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printers, 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, and 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 related fields.
• 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 systems 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 in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Works in standard office and school building environments.

Certification / License

• New Jersey State Certification as a Science Teacher or as required for the position.

Qualifications Profile

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in an education discipline applicable to the teaching assignment.

School Year

2026/2027 SY

FLSA Status

Exempt