Anticipated Interim Science Teacher

*ANTICIPATED INTERIM* Science TEACHER 

2025-26 School Year 

Decorah High School

Decorah High School seeks a dynamic Anticipated Interim Science Teacher for the 2025-26 school year. This position is needed due to a current teacher taking a leave of absence for the 2025-26 academic year. 

About Decorah High School: US News and World Report consistently ranks Decorah High School among Iowa's top five high schools. It was recently awarded its second National Blue Ribbon Schools Award in 2024. As one of the premier high schools in the state, we take pride in our tradition of high academic achievement, athletic prowess, and musical excellence. Our students thrive in a culture of rigorous expectations, and we seek a teacher who can help them reach even greater heights.

About the Decorah Community: Decorah is a vibrant and supportive community that values education and the arts. Our downtown area includes eclectic shops, local businesses, restaurants, a thriving arts scene, and a solid connection to the surrounding natural landscape. Adventure and inspiration can be found every season, with activities ranging from hiking and biking trails to fishing and kayaking.

Science Education at Decorah High School

At Decorah High School, we foster a deep understanding of science through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and real-world applications. Our science curriculum is aligned with Iowa Core Science Standards and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and emphasizes inquiry-based learning, lab investigations, and interdisciplinary connections.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans aligned with state and national science standards.
• Teach Biology and Physical Science, incorporating hands-on labs, inquiry-based learning, and real-world applications.
• Utilize various instructional strategies, including technology integration and collaborative learning, to support students with diverse learning needs and backgrounds.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress, grades, and attendance per school policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with science department colleagues, administrators, and staff to align curriculum, assess student progress, and support school-wide goals.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners.
• Foster a positive and supportive classroom environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry.

Courses Taught:

• Physical Science TA (Grade 9)
• A modified version of Physical Science designed for students enrolled in Bridge to Algebra (Pre-Algebra).
• Covers physics, chemistry, and astronomy with additional scaffolding to support students’ math skill levels.
• Includes hands-on experiments, lectures, audio-visual materials, and field trips.
• Biology (Grade 10)
• Focuses on life science, ecosystems, and environmental disruptions.
• Explores life processes from single-celled organisms to the human body.
• Provides a foundation for making informed scientific decisions in any career path.

Requirements:

• Valid, current Iowa teaching license (or ability to obtain).
• 5-12 Biological Science (Endorsement 152) AND either 5-12 Chemistry (Endorsement 156) OR 5-12 Physics (Endorsement 157).
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5-12 All-Science Endorsement (Endorsement 185)

Decorah High School values diversity and welcomes applicants from various backgrounds and experiences. We encourage individuals who are passionate about inspiring students in the sciences to apply.

Application Deadline:

To apply please email a cover letter and resume to Brad Hurst at brad.hurst@decorah.school or apply below.  This posting will remain active until the position is filled.