Science and Social Studies Teacher

ReNEW Schools; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

ReNEW Schools is seeking a Science and Social Studies Teacher for grades 4–6. You will deliver standards-aligned instruction, integrating science and social studies concepts with literacy and math.

Join a collaborative team focused on student growth, differentiation, and data-informed instruction, while supporting ILEARN readiness and a positive classroom culture.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of 4th–6th grade science and social studies.
• Familiar with Indiana Academic Standards and ILEARN.
• Experience with inquiry-based science and hands-on learning.
• Ability to differentiate instruction for diverse learners.
• Comfort integrating literacy, math, and technology into lessons.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver Tier 1 science and social studies instruction aligned with Indiana standards.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, student-centered classroom.
• Design sequential, standards-based lessons for grades 4–6.
• Use hands-on investigations and data analysis to teach science.

Skills

Content knowledge

Indiana standards

Inquiry-based learning

Differentiation

Team collaboration

Education

Teaching license eligible

Bachelor's degree in education/science/social studies

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Learning Management System (LMS)

Job description

Science and Social Studies Teacher

Reports To: School Principal

Department: Science and Social Studies

Grade Level: 4th-6th

Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, the Science and Social Studies Teacher provides engaging, standards-aligned instruction that develops students’ scientific understanding, historical knowledge, civic awareness, geographic literacy, and critical-thinking skills. The teacher creates meaningful learning experiences that encourage students in grades 4-6 to investigate the natural world, analyze the past and present, evaluate evidence, and connect classroom learning to real-world issues.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Develops, plans, and delivers strong Tier 1 science and social studies instruction aligned with the Indiana Academic Standards for grades 4-6.
• Creates a safe, inclusive, and student-centered classroom environment that supports individual, collaborative, and small-group learning.
• Designs and implements sequential, engaging lesson plans appropriate to the standards and developmental needs of each grade level.
• Provides hands-on, inquiry-based science instruction incorporating investigation, experimentation, engineering design, data analysis, and scientific reasoning.
• Teaches key science concepts in the areas of life science, physical science, Earth and space science, engineering, and technology.
• Provides social studies instruction in history, geography, civics and government, economics, and culture.
• Guides students in analyzing primary and secondary sources, evaluating evidence, developing claims, and communicating conclusions.
• Integrates reading, writing, research, mathematics, and technology into science and social studies instruction.
• Connects scientific and social studies concepts to current events, students’ communities, and real-world challenges.
• Differentiates instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including students with IEPs, English Language Learners, and advanced learners.
• Conducts ongoing formative and summative assessments and uses data to monitor student progress and adjust instruction.
• Maintains familiarity with Indiana state standardized assessments, including ILEARN, and supports students in applying content knowledge and critical-thinking skills.
• Communicates regularly and effectively with students, families, and colleagues regarding student progress and classroom expectations.
• Maintains accurate and complete records of student attendance, grades, assessments, and learning activities in compliance with school and state requirements.
• Collaborates with grade-level teams, interventionists, special education staff, and instructional leaders to support student achievement across disciplines.
• Manages laboratory materials, instructional resources, technology tools, and other classroom materials safely and responsibly.
• Participates in professional development, faculty meetings, collaborative planning, and school improvement initiatives.
• Upholds school behavioral expectations and fosters a respectful, productive classroom culture.

Additional Duties

• Supports schoolwide academic initiatives, including science fairs, STEM activities, civic engagement projects, and other student learning opportunities.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal or designee in support of the school’s educational mission.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong content knowledge across grades 4-6 science and social studies.
• Knowledge of current science pedagogy, including inquiry-based learning, hands-on investigation, the engineering design process, and evidence-based reasoning.
• Knowledge of effective social studies instruction, including source analysis, discussion, research, historical thinking, and civic engagement.
• Ability to integrate literacy, mathematics, technology, and real-world applications across both content areas.
• Understanding of differentiated instruction and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
• Ability to use student assessment data to guide instructional decisions.
• Ability to establish and maintain appropriate safety procedures during scientific investigations and laboratory activities.
• Proficiency with educational technology and learning management systems.
• Strong classroom-management, communication, organization, and collaboration skills.
• Knowledge of applicable Indiana and federal education laws and regulations.

Qualifications

• Valid Indiana teaching license or eligibility for licensure with the appropriate elementary, science, or social studies endorsement for the assigned grade levels required.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in education, science, social studies, or a related field required.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Prior successful teaching experience at the upper-elementary or middle-school level preferred.
• Experience providing hands-on science instruction and project-based learning preferred.
• Demonstrated record of improving student achievement outcomes preferred.