Middle School 7th Grade Science Teacher

Margaret L Hopkin Middle Schools

The middle science school classroom teacher is responsible for creating a positive learning environment where students can develop the skills to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, lifelong learners and productive citizens. Teachers will become familiar with the Utah SEEd standard of science. Science teachers understand science is a way of knowing, a process for understanding the natural world. Science teachers will help students develop scientific knowledge including ongoing questioning, testing, and refinement of ideas when supported by empirical evidence. Because science is an active endeavor, students best learn science by engaging in it. This includes making lessons that have students gather information through observations, reasoning, and communicating with others. It is not enough for students to read about or watch science from a distance; learners must become active participants in forming their ideas and engaging in scientific practice. Teachers must show students that science is composed of multiple types of knowledge and tools. These include the processes of doing science, the structures that help us organize and connect our understandings, and the deep explanatory pieces of knowledge that provide predictive power. Teachers will show students that science is represented by the “three dimensions” presented in the Utah SEEd standards. These include science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas. Taken together, these represent how we use science to make sense of phenomena, and they are most meaningful when learned in concert with one another. Teachers will also be expected to maintain a safe environment; establish rapport with students, parents and colleagues; motivate pupils to develop attitudes and knowledge that will help them reach their potential and be prepared for higher levels of education. Teachers differentiate curriculum and use effective research-based methods of instruction.

Family Medical, Retirement, LTD & Life - Per GCSD Policy

WORK RELATED REQUIREMENTS
Requires strong oral and written communication skills with students, parents, and staff.
Requires strong computer and educational technological skills.
Requires effective problem solving, organizational, multi-tasking, and time management skills.
Requires the ability to implement effective teaching strategies.
Requires the ability to establish and maintain a positive learning environment.
Requires the ability to calmly handle classroom management issues.
Requires the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, school staff, district staff, and patrons.
Requires the ability to work as a member of a team as well as the ability to work independently with little direct supervision.
Knowledge of State Core Curriculum and Board of Education adopted guidelines.
Predictable and reliable attendance.
During times of state or district emergency, all employees may be required to perform additional duties that are not required on a normal basis in support of educational and operational priorities. e.g. Performs general cleaning and sanitizing of work areas, provides remote assistance to students and staff, and any other reasonable duty as needed.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Incumbents must be fingerprinted and clear a criminal background check.
Utah teaching certification or the ability to obtain one.
Minimum Bachelor's degree in education with a science endorsement.
Or a Bachelor/Masters in a science related field, with the ability to obtain licensure through the Utah Alternative Licensing Program.
Strong knowledge of Secondary Education Science curriculum and Utah State Standards.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Patience, adaptability, and a passion for working with middle school students.
Ability to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

NOTE: The Administration reserves the right to require specific training for this position. However, depending upon the type and quality of prior work experience and availability of formal training programs, some exchanges can be made between training and experience.

08/06/2025

Per GCSD Certified Salary Schedule