Long-Term Substitute Teacher - Secondary - Science - Biology

Downingtown Area School District is seeking a certified long-term substitute teacher for secondary-level Biology for the first semester of the 2026-2027 school year (August 12, 2026 – January 19, 2027). This is a benefits-eligible, one-semester assignment at STEM Academy.

About the Role

Present clear, high-quality, flexible, and appropriate content knowledge to students through planning and preparation, in a safe and supportive classroom environment. Provide ongoing communication and engaging instructional delivery to educate all students to meet the rigorous challenges of a global society.

At DASD, we value employees who communicate openly, partner with team members, demonstrate a growth mindset, embrace a safe and inclusive environment, support student learning, and lead by example.

Responsibilities

• Planning and preparation of lessons
• Demonstrating knowledge of content in Biology
• Maintaining a positive and supportive classroom environment
• Delivering engaging and effective instruction
• Communicating with students, parents, teachers, and administrators

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Valid Pennsylvania certification specific to 7-12 Science (Biology)
• Knowledge in the assigned content area
• Positive attitude toward teaching and service to the district
• Proficiency in current technology for instruction and communication
• Ability to flex and vary hours to accommodate student, parent, and teacher needs
• Effective interpersonal and classroom management skills
• Strong communication, planning, and human relations skills
• Adherence to the PA Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators
• Successful completion and maintenance of all federal and state background and criminal record checks
• Compliance with all local, state, federal, and school code requirements for employment

Benefits

• Health Benefits
  • Select a-la-carte medical coverage through Independence Blue Cross (IBC) – no primary care physician or referrals required
  • Prescription coverage through CVS/Caremark
  • Dental coverage through Delta Dental Active PPO (in-network and out-of-network providers)
  • Vision coverage through Vision Benefits of America (VBA) – no waiting period
• Eligible dependents (spouse and children up to age 26) may enroll in health benefit plans
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare and Dependent Care)
• Wellness Programs
  • $150 reimbursement for completing 120 workouts at an approved fitness facility within 365 days
  • Up to 6 free visits per calendar year with a registered dietitian
  • Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Health Advocate for personal, family, and work issues, plus healthcare navigation support
  • Free telemedicine consultations through SwiftMD (phone or online)
• Retirement & Financial
  • Membership in the Pennsylvania State Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS)
  • Eligibility for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
  • Life benefit: 1 x basic annual salary (up to $50,000 maximum)
  • Income protection benefit: 60% of basic monthly pay (up to $2,800 per month)
  • Tuition reimbursement: 75% of tuition for grades B or better (limit 12 credits per year)
• Professional Development & Support
  • Induction program for new teachers, including:
    • After-school workshops
    • Assigned mentor for additional support
    • Collaboration meetings with curriculum leader, grade level leader, or supervisor(s)
    • New hire faculty meetings with principal(s)
  • 8 staff professional development days per year
• Paid Time Off
  • 10 sick days annually
  • 2 personal days annually (may accumulate up to 5)
  • Retiree benefits: payout for unused personal and sick days

Pay

Placement on the 2026-2027 salary scale is dependent upon education and years of teaching service. Refer to the DAEA Agreement – 2025-2030, Appendix B for the salary schedule.

Schedule

• 7.5 hours per day based on the district-approved calendar
• Up to 191 days per year, plus up to 3 days of orientation for first-year professional employees