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Computer Science Teacher

Garfield, NJ
Starting Salary: $62,500

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Director, to develop students' skills and competence in the fields of Science, Engineering and Computer Science; develops Engineering and Science, Computer Science and Design Thinking practices, and problem-solving, as well as an understanding of the applications of science, engineering, computer science and technology in the solution of practical problems.

Essential Functions:
- Teaches knowledge and skills in Science, Engineering, Computer Science, and Design Thinking areas in accordance with district Science, and Computer Science curricula.
- 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.
- Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
- Maintains familiarity with district and standardized tests for the purpose of adapting curriculum to maximize student achievement on such tests.
- Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments 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.
STEM: Science and Engineering
- Understands science and engineering standards and develops lesson plans and instructional materials for subject area, and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
- Designs learning activities to demonstrate the application of science to everyday existence, 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.
Computer Science and Design Thinking[1]
- Teacher in Computer Science. Specific duties are outlined below:
Full-time participation in educational activities during the academic terms (Fall, and Spring) including:
Interacting with students, e.g. by lecturing, leading period sessions, and staffing lab and office hours.
Creating lesson plans, and content, such as lecture materials, problem sets, quizzes, videos, and other materials.
Carrying out administrative responsibilities, such as working with Computer Science Program Director and Cohort leaders, record-keeping, attending weekly PLC (Professional Learning Communities) meetings, and interacting with Assistant Director of Academics and School Principal.
Participating in the creation/revision of Computer Science curriculum courses
4-8 Curriculum Course assignments will include but not limited to some of the following content:
Computers, Internet and Communications
Scratch Block-based Programming, Creative Computing
Algorithms and Text-Based programming in Python
2D and 3D Design (Game Design, App Development, TinkerCAD, etc)
Physical Computing and Engineering (Robotics, Electric Circuits, etc.)
Databases and Analysis
Additional Duties
- Performs other related tasks as assigned by the School Director and other central office administrators, as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment
- Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone. Familiar with robotics tools, and necessary computer software and platforms to teach programming, physical computing, and engineering design.

Travel Requirements
- Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
- Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as 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 other related areas (e.g., mathematics).
- 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 system 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 contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
- Works in standard office and school building environments.
Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.

Qualifications Profile
Certification/License:
- For grades 4 & 5, NJ Certification (K - 6) with a Background and/or Strong Desire to teach Science/STEM and Computer Science. For grades 6-8, must hold a NJ Certification with Subject Matter Specialization: Science or Teacher of Science. Instructional Certificate with Computer Science Education Endorsement issued by the State Board of Education preferred.
- Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education:
- Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
- Masters Degree preferred.
Experience:
- Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.