High School Science Teacher

Rochester Prep, a part of Uncommon Schools, manages six schools serving students from kindergarten to 12th grade. We emphasize genuine relationships between teachers and students, supported by effective school systems and engaging teaching methods. Rochester Prep schools consistently rank among the top-performing schools in the city, with 85% of our students being accepted into college.

Job Description

High School Science teachers at Uncommon Schools work together across our network to equip all students with the tools and knowledge to engage deeply in the field of science and become independent learners. Our science courses focus on inquiry-based learning, encouraging student discussions and applying scientific practices. Teachers use various teaching methods to inspire a love for scientific inquiry and analysis in their students. We prepare our students to excel in any STEM field and to critically engage in scientific pursuits, regardless of their future careers or college majors. Our teachers become experts in their subjects and are skilled at motivating and inspiring high school students.

Responsibilities

1. Teaching

• Teach Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Sciences, preparing students for Advanced Placement (AP) and college-level coursework.
• Develop students’ skills in questioning, modeling, constructing explanations, data analysis, argumentation, and conducting interactive labs.
• Create a supportive environment where students confidently engage in scientific discussions.
• Facilitate student-led discussions where students use evidence to make informed claims and critique arguments.
• Engage students in inquiry-based learning and hands-on projects.

2. Data Analysis

• Meet regularly with the principal and/or instructional coach to review student work and assessment trends.
• Learn and implement strategies to tailor instruction for all students in the class.

3. School Culture

• Build positive relationships with students to ensure they feel valued and heard.
• Partner with families to support their child’s learning needs.
• Participate in professional development, mentorship, and coaching sessions.
• Attend school-wide meetings to foster community, uphold our core values, and promote student success.
• Collaborate with grade-level teams to set academic goals and implement teaching strategies.

Qualifications

• Commitment to Uncommon Schools’ mission and values, including anti-racism.
• Dedication to supporting students’ social-emotional and academic growth.
• Enthusiasm for collaborating with colleagues and partners to benefit students.
• Self-motivated learner who seeks and applies feedback to improve outcomes.
• Preferred 1-2 years of experience working with K-12 students in urban communities.
• Academic expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or related fields.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required. Teaching certification is not mandatory upon hire but must meet New York state certification eligibility requirements within a reasonable period.

Additional Information

At Uncommon Schools, we value our team and offer competitive compensation and benefits. Our staff receive top-notch training, coaching, and support to operate schools that provide high-quality education. Benefits include generous paid time off, health insurance options, retirement savings plans, and various wellness programs.

Uncommon Schools is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring our team and students thrive in an inclusive environment. We are an equal opportunity employer, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you need an accommodation, please contact us at recruitment@uncommonschools.org.