Upper School (Grades 7/8) Science Teacher

Overview

At Ridgefield Academy, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant learning community where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our educators embody the school’s mission, values, and commitment to ethical excellence, serving as role models and mentors who inspire curiosity, creativity, and character development. Guided by our Educator Excellence Indicators, our teaching practices emphasize deep content knowledge, inclusive classroom environments, innovative approaches, and reflective professionalism.

Position Summary

The Upper School Science Teacher will design and deliver a dynamic and engaging science curriculum for 7th and 8th grade students. This role requires creating a learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for scientific inquiry. The teacher is responsible for establishing a flexible educational program that promotes personal growth and fosters strong relationships with students, parents, and faculty.

Seventh grade students focus on Life Science, while eighth grade students study Physical Science. The curriculum also explores Earth Science, technology, and the interaction of science and society.

Primary Responsibilities

Commitment to Mission and Values

• Integrate Ridgefield Academy’s mission and values into classroom practices, fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and kindness.
• Actively participate in school events, committees, and initiatives to strengthen the school community.
• Uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in interactions with students, families, and colleagues.

Instructional Excellence and Innovation

• Plan and deliver an engaging, inquiry-based science curriculum covering Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.
• Use diverse instructional strategies, including hands-on experiments, technology integration, and interdisciplinary approaches.
• Assess student progress through formative and summative assessments, providing timely and constructive feedback.
• Set high academic expectations while scaffolding learning to foster critical thinking and student growth.
• Incorporate innovative teaching practices that encourage creativity and problem-solving.

Social-Emotional Learning and Classroom Environment

• Create a positive, inclusive, and safe classroom environment where all students feel valued and supported.
• Actively teach and model social-emotional skills, incorporating restorative practices to resolve conflicts and promote accountability.
• Implement fair and consistent classroom management strategies, cultivating a productive and collaborative atmosphere.
• Develop strong relationships with students as an active Advisor, partnering with faculty and learners within the division.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

• Work closely with the Head of Middle and Upper School, Assistant Head for Academics, grade-level teams, learning specialists, and counselors.
• Maintain transparent and timely communication with families through conferences, progress reports, and classroom updates.
• Engage in school-wide professional learning communities, contributing to initiatives such as DEIB and SEL programming.

Professional Growth and Reflective Practice

• Demonstrate a growth mindset by seeking professional development opportunities and engaging in reflective teaching practices.
• Regularly assess and adapt teaching strategies based on student outcomes, feedback, and evolving educational standards.
• Serve as a mentor and collaborator, sharing expertise and supporting the professional development of colleagues.

Key Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of teaching experience with upper elementary (Grades 4-5) or middle school students (Grades 6-8), ideally in an independent school setting.

Skills

• Expertise in inquiry-based and constructivist teaching practices in Earth Science and Physical Science.
• Strong knowledge of curriculum design, differentiation, and assessment strategies.
• Ability to create an inclusive classroom environment that prioritizes student agency and growth.
• Willingness to continuously learn and adapt instructional strategies.
• Proficiency in integrating technology into teaching and learning.

Ridgefield Academy’s Educator Excellence

Our faculty embody the following attributes, aligned with our Educator Excellence Indicators framework:

• Pedagogical Expertise: Deep content knowledge and effective teaching strategies that foster student achievement.
• Student-Centered Approach: Prioritizing the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of learners.
• Academic Rigor and Innovation: Challenging students while integrating creative and forward-thinking practices.
• Professionalism and Collaboration: Engaging in continuous growth, reflective practice, and meaningful partnerships with colleagues and families.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Demonstrating flexibility, perseverance, and emotional regulation in the face of challenges.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary Range: $50,000 - $90,000, commensurate with experience.

This is a 10-month, full-time position with comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities.