Secondary Earth and Space Science and Zoology Teacher

About the role

The Secondary Earth and Space Science and Zoology Teacher reports to the Building Principal at Highland Park High School within Topeka Public Schools.

Qualifications

• ESOL endorsement preferred
• A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university
• A valid Kansas Teacher’s Certificate (applicable level-area endorsements preferred)
• A completed credential file that meets Topeka Public School standards
• Professional verification of successful classroom teacher performance and/or student teaching experience
• Evidence of the willingness and ability to comply with ethical and professional performance standards established by the State Board of Education
• Regular and predictable attendance is essential

Physical/Emotional Requirements

• Frequent walking, sitting, talking, hearing, standing, reaching with hands and arms
• Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds
• Close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Interacts with staff and meets demands from several people
• Responsible for the work output of others

Performance Responsibilities

• Teaches general science, earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, and physiology concepts
• Plans and delivers a science program including demonstrations, lectures, discussion, and student experiments
• Organizes laboratory activities for optimal learning
• Demonstrates scientific concepts using scientific apparatus, experiments, and instructional aids
• Instructs pupils in proper use, care, and safe handling of chemicals, science equipment, and plant and animal life
• Provides for safe storage and proper use of materials, equipment, and tools
• Modifies teaching to meet individual student needs
• Communicates high expectations to all learners
• Sets and responds to suggestions, requests, and concerns appropriately
• Incorporates appropriate technology in instruction
• Effectively implements the district-adopted curriculum
• Develops lesson plans by incorporating effective lesson design
• Uses research-based instructional practices and current resources that support instructional goals and student needs
• Models and facilitates higher-order thinking, problem solving, creativity, and flexibility
• Routinely integrates a variety of informal and formal assessments into instruction
• Uses a variety of data in making instructional decisions
• Makes students aware of assessment standards/learner expectations
• Assists students in developing self-assessment skills
• Maintains up-to-date records of student progress
• Creates a positive, inviting, and safe learning environment
• Develops, models, and practices procedures and routines
• Communicates realistic and consistent expectations for student behavior and applies appropriate consequences
• Demonstrates conflict resolution skills
• Models enthusiasm for learning and teaching
• Treats students, patrons, and colleagues with dignity and respect
• Maintains confidentiality
• Uses monitoring techniques to facilitate learning
• Demonstrates knowledge of how subject matter/disciplines are integrated
• Demonstrates how subject matter is organized
• Communicates effectively and promotes positive interpersonal relationships
• Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior to provide an orderly, productive environment during instructional activities
• Supervises pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned working day
• Oversees assigned budgets
• Supports the District’s educational mission for all students and implements all Board regulations and policies in a fair and equitable manner

Terms of Employment

The position is for 10.5 months with salary and work year to be determined by the Board of Education.

Evaluation

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board policy on evaluation of professional certified employees.

Significant Associations

The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor.

About Topeka Public Schools

Topeka Public Schools is recognized nationally for:

• Academic excellence
• Post-secondary and career success
• Achievement in arts, athletics and extracurricular activities

Strengthened by diversity and a welcoming and inclusive environment, our district will cultivate partnerships with staff, families, businesses, and the greater community to develop students' educational, physical, and social-emotional well being.