High School Science Teacher

SUMMARY OF DUTIES: Under direction, to teach and instruct pupils in grades 6 through 12 in secondary academic subject matter, social, behavioral, and other educational skill areas; to plan, develop, organize, and conduct a comprehensive educational program for secondary level pupils; to assist upper secondary level pupils in making appropriate life style adjustmen­ts, and in the determination of career and vocational choices; and to do other related functions as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This position classification requires subject area expertise commonly associated with secondary teaching and instruction. Directly related teaching and instruction experience is suggested to perform problem analysis using prescribed principles, methods and concepts. The position classification performs decision analysis and makes decisions of considerable consequence in determining how best to aid students in the learning process.  The functional role of this position classification requires the application and interpretation of data, facts, procedures, and policies.  The incumbent meets frequently with school administrators, teachers, and other staff to communicate information, data, and alternative problem solutions. 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Teach and instruct in subject matter areas commonly found in a comprehensive secondary education program.
• Utilize an adopted course of study, instructional program guidelines, and other materials in planning and developing lesson plans and teaching outlines.
• Pursue a variety of methodology in teaching and instructing pupils, including lectures, demonstrations, discussions, lectures, and laboratory experiences.
• Conduct teaching and instructional activi­ties, using educational equipment, materials, books, and other learning aids.
• Provide instruction in citizenship and other subject matter specified by legal mandate, District policy, and administrative regulations.
• Plan, develop, and utilize a variety of instructional materials appropriate to the intellectual and instructional level of pupils from varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds, and who possess a range of mental and emotional maturity.
• Review, analyze and evaluate the history, background, and assessment of pupils in designing instructional programs to meet individual educational needs.
• Individualize and adapt educational processes and procedures to enhance pupil educational opportunities.
• Provide group and individual instruction to motivate pupils, and effectively utilize the time available for instructional activities.
• Maintain appropriate standards of pupil behavior, using behavioral management strategies and techniques, including positive reinforcement and behavior shaping procedures.
• Review, analyze, evaluate, and report pupil academic, social, and emotional growth.
• Prepare, administer, score, record, and report the results of criterion referenced tests, and administer, score, record, and report the results of group standardized tests in evaluating pupil growth and progress.
• Counsel, confer and communicate with parents, school, and District personnel regard­ing pupil progress, and in the interpretation of the educational program.
• Cooperatively pursue alternative solutions to ameliorate pupil learning difficulties, and to enhance expanded academic, social, and emotional growth opportunities.
• Maintain an effective learning environment through the utilization of exhibits, displays, and independent study centers.
• Select and requisition appropriate educational supplies, materials, books, equipment, and learning aids.
• Perform a variety of non-instructional duties, including curriculum and instructional development activities, student supervision, and consultation activities.
• Demonstrate effective positive interpersonal and communication skills, with students, parents and staff.
• Demonstrate regular attendance and punctuality.
• Perform other duties consistent with the position assigned as may be requested by the Principal or Superintendent.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

        KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Principles, theories, methods, techniques, and strategies pertaining to teaching and instruction of secondary level pupils;
• Academic, social, and behavioral characteristics of secondary level pupils;
• Educational curriculum and instructional goals and objectives, and educational trends and research findings pertaining to comprehensive secondary programming;
• Behavior management and behavior shaping strategies, techniques and methods, and conflict resolution procedures;
• Socio-economic and cultural background differences of the school population.

        ABILITY TO:

• Plan, organize, develop, and conduct a comprehensive teaching and instruction program for pupils at the secondary level;
• Provide appropriate and effective learning experiences for pupils from a wide range of socio-economic levels and cultural backgrounds;
• Effectively assess the instructional and educational needs of pupils, and design, develop, and implement sound instructional and educational programs;
• Provide a motivating and stimulating learning environment;
• Perform research and development activities pertaining to curriculum and instruction­al programs and innovative and creative pilot projects designed to enhance pupil educational opportunities and experiences.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and skill is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be:

Experience:

Successful completion of student teaching at a recognized college or university, or two years of regular full time secondary level teaching experience.

Education:

Possession of a baccalaureate or higher degree with emphasis in an academic major or minor subject matter fields commonly taught in secondary grade levels.

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT: Possession of certification as required by Kentucky law.