About this role
-Aspen Middle School seeks a Grade 6 Science Teacher to begin duties ASAP- Position Title: Grade 6 Science Teacher Department: Aspen Middle School Reports to: Aspen Middle School Principal Classification: Certified Contract Period: 9 Months (185 days with some variance depending on the year) Compensation: Certified Salary Schedule Benefits: ASD offers district-funded employee and dependent health benefits including medical, vision, dental, and life insurance to benefit-eligible employees. Other benefits include (as eligible): paid leave, CO PERA (pension plan) enrollment with district contribution, TSA options, free transportation for employees from Carbondale to Aspen, employee assistance program, wellness program, supplemental insurance (ie cancer, disability, etc). Job Summary: Teach science to 6th-grade students at Aspen Middle School, adhering to the CO Academic Science Standards. This position also requires that qualified candidates embrace a “whole child” philosophy. Academic growth and achievement are paramount, in conjunction with outdoor education experiences and a culture of integrity, kindness, and compassion. Requirements: Candidates must:
• Possess a current, initial, or professional Colorado teaching license with an endorsement in secondary science or be eligible to obtain this licensure within the first 3 months of employment;
• Demonstrate expertise in teaching the 6th grade CO Academic Science Standards;
• Demonstrate expertise in instruction, including knowledge of the ways in which learning takes place and the appropriate levels of cognitive, social, and emotional development of adolescent students;
• Establish a respectful environment for a diverse population of students, developing a classroom environment in which each student has the opportunity to think independently and express original ideas;
• Facilitate learning for all students using a variety of instructional methods, integrating and utilizing technology, to provide students with opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, encourage exploration of ideas, and develop leadership qualities;
• Take responsibility for student academic growth using a variety of strategies to inform instructional decisions;
• Reflect on teaching practices, analyze student learning, development, and growth, and apply what is learned to improve instruction;
• Possess the ability to communicate and interact effectively and productively, both verbally and in writing, with all staff;
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for collaboration, using the MTSS framework, with a team of administrators, teachers, and support staff;
• Demonstrate ability to work with cross-departmental and or grade-level teams to develop goals for improving student achievement;
• Demonstrate teacher leadership, advocating for students, and exhibiting high ethical standards;
• Have a strong desire to extend learning experiences beyond the classroom, including participation in the Aspen Middle School Outdoor Education Program.
Experience and training in IB are preferred. This may include IB teaching, tutoring, or examining experience. Implement meaningful lessons and units in your classroom while meeting the IB Program requirements. Participate in IB professional development and workshops, that may be outside of contract time. General Expectations:
• Manages oneself (is organized, prepared, and punctual; manages resources; meets deadlines; follows through on commitments; demonstrates appropriate physical appearance relative to job and environmental expectations) in a manner that supports and enhances public education;
• Acts consistently in ways that directly support the missions of Aspen Middle School and the Aspen School District;
• Displays a willingness to learn new information;
• Uses clear verbal and written communication and strong listening skills;
• Develops and maintains rapport and effective relationships with adolescents and adults contacted in carrying out duties and responsibilities by using courtesy, diplomacy, collaboration, cooperation, support, and professional conduct;
• Formulates goals that reflect the organization's strategic themes and include specific, measurable outcomes instead of just completing activities;
• Contributes actively to the goals and success of all teams and team members through collaboration, cooperation, and flexibility (give and take) in team discussions, activities, and decision making;
• Maintains high ethical standards, legal responsibility, and confidentiality.
• Ensures full attendance on all contracted work days as outlined in the employment agreement, including arriving on time and remaining for the entire contracted day.
• Be present and actively engaged during the scheduled workdays according to the school's academic calendar, observing holidays, breaks, and scheduled professional development days as appropriate.
• Arrive on time for all scheduled workdays and meetings, including the beginning of school, lunch breaks, and any special assignments, ensuring minimal disruption to the academic schedule.
• Notify the appropriate school personnel in advance for any anticipated absences, including following district procedures for requesting leave, and provide documentation when necessary.
• In the event of an absence, ensure that appropriate substitute plans are prepared and submitted in accordance with school policy, facilitating a smooth transition for students.
• Other duties as assigned or necessary.
Working Environment: The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling, some stooping, kneeling, sitting, standing, walking, and repetitive motion with computer use. The job is performed in a generally clean and comfortable environment. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. The middle school science teacher will be required to follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as assigned by the Principal or appropriate administrator. The Aspen School District reserves the right to update, revise, or change this job description and related duties at any time.