What are the responsibilities and job description for the Middle School Science / STEM Teacher position at Contra Costa Jewish Day School?
Middle School Science / STEM Teacher (2026-27 Academic Year)
The Contra Costa Jewish Day School (CCJDS) is a K-8 independent school with approximately 170 students, accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. We are seeking a passionate educator to join our team as a Middle School Science / STEM Teacher starting in August 2026. This position may be part-time or full time based on the candidate and/or the school's hiring needs. There may be opportunities to take on leadership and/or mentoring responsibilities.
At CCJDS, STEM education is hands-on, rigorous, engaging and innovative. We seek candidates who love working with Middle School students and who want to engage in school life and culture. The school offers small class sizes, a supportive environment, true dedication to professional growth, and an innovative approach to learning. In addition to curriculum planning and whole-group/small group instruction, our teachers are expected to differentiate the curriculum and accommodate students with specific learning needs/strengths. Collaboration with colleagues and productive connections with parents - including parent newsletters, emails, phone calls, and report cards with personalized narratives - are also important expectations. We seek outstanding candidates of all backgrounds.
Key Responsibilities for Full-Time Position (to be amended for Part-Time)
- Teach 6th-8th grade science with a focus on inquiry, lab and project-based curriculum
- Teach STEM and/or other Middle School Elective classes
- Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that support a rigorous and differentiated curriculum.
- Assess and monitor student progress, providing individualized support and feedback to ensure academic success.
- Foster a positive and innovative learning environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and a love for STEM.
- Co-lead our Annual Science Night
- Plan and co-chaperone our 5th/6th Grade overnight trip with a focus on outdoor, experiential learning. The trip typically includes hiking, watershed/ ecosystem exploration, and team-building activities.
- Conduct parent-teacher conferences twice a year, and communicate with parents during the year, to share insights on student progress and collaborate on support strategies.
- Prepare timely and attentive parent communications, including narrative report cards twice a year, providing detailed feedback on each student’s performance and growth.
- Assist the administration in creating a respectful school environment in support of the behavioral and cultural policies of the school
- Attend all staff meetings and fulfill other duties assigned by the Head of School (recess duties, club supervision, etc.)
- Based on the candidate’s credentials and interests and the school’s needs, this position may include leadership and/or mentoring responsibilities.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree with a science major, Master’s degree with a science or science education major preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to teach STEM effectively at the middle school level, including differentiating instruction to engage a range of learners.
- Proven success and enthusiasm for working constructively with parents in an independent school-type setting
- Experience creating a nurturing, mutually respectful environment both in the classroom and with colleagues and administrators
- Effective classroom management, assessment, and organization skills
- Experience and success collaborating with other teachers in a team setting and embracing a culture of ongoing professional growth
- Proven ability to engage and inspire middle school students.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.
- A strong work ethic and dedication to fostering a creative and inclusive classroom environment.
The Contra Costa Jewish Day School welcomes qualified applicants with a variety of talents, interests, backgrounds and perspectives. CCJDS does not discriminate based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or physical disability in the admission of students or the employment of staff, nor does it tolerate sexual harassment.
Compensation:
- Annual Salary: $55,000 to $85,000 for full-time (pro-rated for part-time), commensurate with experience and credentials
- 100% Health and Dental insurance for a full-time employee (part-time employees working 20 hours per week or more are eligible on a pro-rated basis)
- School contribution to TIAA-CREF 403B Retirement Plan
- Support for Professional Growth
- Generous tuition remission for employees with student(s) enrolled at CCJDS.
To apply, please send cover letter and resume to:
Eden Allswang Bruner
Head of School
eden@ccjds.org
To learn more about CCJDS, please visit www.ccjds.org
Pay: $55,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 403(b) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $55,000 - $85,000