What are the responsibilities and job description for the High School Social Studies Teacher position at Dallas Center - Grimes Schools?
High School Social Studies Teacher
SUMMARY: The High School Social Studies Teacher delivers standards-based instruction in history, civics, geography, economics, and related disciplines for students in grades 9-12. The teacher promotes critical thinking, civic engagement, historical inquiry, and global awareness to support student understanding of societal structures and issues. The Social Studies Teacher designs engaging lessons, evaluates student progress, and collaborates with colleagues to provide a supportive and rigorous learning environment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Plan and deliver high-quality social studies instruction aligned with district curriculum, state standards, and best practices in secondary education.
- Teach courses such as U.S. History, World History, Government, Economics, and/or Geography using a variety of instructional strategies.
- Foster students' critical thinking, analysis of primary and secondary sources, and understanding of historical and contemporary issues.
- Prepare instructional materials, assessments, and learning resources that support student engagement and content mastery.
- Communicate regularly with students, families, teachers, and counselors regarding academic progress and classroom expectations.
- Maintain accurate records of student achievement, attendance, and performance data.
- Implement effective classroom management strategies that promote a positive and respectful learning environment.
- Provide instructional accommodations and modifications as required by IEPs, 504 plans, or individual student needs.
- Integrate technology, digital resources, and current events to enhance instruction and promote student engagement.
- Encourage civic responsibility, respectful discourse, and awareness of diverse perspectives.
- Support students during assessments, classroom activities, and school-wide events as needed.
- Participate in required meetings, professional development, and district trainings.
- Promote and adhere to district policies, procedures, and professional standards of conduct.
EDUCATION & RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Social Studies, History, Political Science, Geography, or a related field required.
- Experience teaching or working with high school students is preferred.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, OR CERTIFICATIONS
- Criminal background check required.
- State of Iowa teaching license with a Social Studies endorsement required.
TECHNICAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
- Strong knowledge of history, civics, geography, economics, and social sciences content.
- Ability to design engaging, inquiry-based, and standards-aligned instruction.
- Ability to facilitate discussion, debate, and analysis of complex and sometimes sensitive topics.
- Ability to use instructional technology, learning management systems, and district software applications.
- Ability to promote and follow Board of Education policies, district policies, and school procedures.
- Effective interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to support a culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment.
- Ability to maintain student safety, follow safety procedures, and report concerns to administrators.
- Ability to stay current with district standards, data privacy requirements, and cybersecurity practices related to student information.
Full Job Description
High School Social Studies