What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certificated - Anticipated Middle School Teacher - Science position at Kalama School District 402?
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Position Title: Certificated - Anticipated Middle School Teacher - Science
Location: Kalama Middle School
Days/Hrs: 180 school days/7 hours per day (1.0 FTE), plus applicable in-service days
Start Date: August 2026
Pay Schedule: LINK to 25-26 schedule
Benefits: Eligible for medical, dental, vision, AD&D, life insurance and LTD through the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB).
Retirement: Position is WA State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) eligible.
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students\' skills and competence in one or more fields of science, including general science, biology, physiology, and chemistry; develops students skills and abilities in scientific methods and problem-solving, as well as an understanding of the application of science in the solution of practical problems.
Essential Functions
- Model appropriate professional behaviors and practices in all settings; demonstrate high standards of honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior at all times
- Participate as an active member of the building leadership team, PLTs, and/or district work groups appropriate to the position
- Possess and exhibit strong communication and interpersonal relations skills to support student learning
- Participate in ongoing professional learning aligned with district strategic plan
- Demonstrate consistent, effective working relationships with students, families, and staff
- Complete other duties as assigned
Teaching & Learning
- Ensure students receive regular, high quality lessons, aligned to the district Strategic Plan
- Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
- Instructs students in the principles of responsible citizenship and other subject matters specified in applicable laws, as well as administrative regulations and procedures of the school system.
- Demonstrate the ability in classroom management
- Demonstrate successful recent experience working with students
- Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively
- Successful experience working with diverse populations
- Familiarity with a wide variety of teaching techniques which are used to maximize student learning
- Ability to work cooperatively with students and their parents who are culturally, racially, and linguistically diverse
- Comfortable working in a collaborative environment in a program focused on improving student learning
- Ability to work with an educational team including directing the work of paraeducators
- Ensure student safety and well being
- Develops and administers science curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives
- Develops lesson plans and instructional materials for subject area, and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction
- Designs learning activities to demonstrate the application of science to everyday existence, including scientific research projects, demonstrations, experiments, and laboratory activities
- Teaches knowledge and skills in one or more fields of science, including general science, earth science, life, and/or physical science, in accordance with district curriculum
- Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student\'s needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed
- Maintains familiarity with district and Washington State standardized tests for the purpose of adapting curriculum to maximize student achievement on such tests
- Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research
- Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws
- Instructs students in the proper use and care of scientific equipment, chemicals, and plant and animal life
- Encourages parental involvement in students\' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents
- Ensures that student conduct conforms to the school\'s standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom
- Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees
- Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records
Curriculum & Assessment
- Maintain familiarity with education research; integrate research-based practices to maximize student learning
- Partner with building administrators and Building Leadership Teams (BLTs) to identify and address student learning needs
- Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and other school staff to identify students needing additional support and develop intervention plans; support the implementation of tiered system of MTSS.
- Promote the use of data to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes; support and utilize centralized academic data collection, analysis, and progress monitoring systems
- Monitor student learning trends to help reduce opportunity and achievement gaps
- Provide regular feedback to students and families on student goals, expectations, and progress
Commitment to Equity & Inclusion
- Advocate for and implement practices that promote equity and culturally responsive teaching
- Provide leadership in fostering inclusive learning environments that meet the diverse needs of students
Professionalism
- Serve as a positive role model for students, colleagues, and community members, both inside and outside the classroom
- Uphold standards of professional behavior and communication, including use of common technology platforms
- Address internal concerns through established professional channels, ensuring that all public-facing communications reflect the pride, dedication, and common purpose of our districtwide team
- Follow all district policies and procedures, including behaviors consistent with Policy 5161: Civility in the Workplace
- Complete all required records accurately and on time (e.g. attendance, grading, state reporting, etc.)
- Maintain your educational certificate or other required certification(s)
Maintain regular and punctual attendance
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiates instruction based upon student learning styles
- Knowledge of elementary school curriculum and concepts
- Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students
- Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed
- Ability to organize and coordinate work
- Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents
- Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
The position requires working in a dynamic school environment, with limited travel. The role involves frequent interruptions, shifting priorities, and deadlines. Candidates must be able
to safely lift up to 50 lbs., engage in prolonged computer use, and attend evening meetings if required. The work environment may include interactions with distraught individuals and
exposure to infectious diseases.
Required Qualifications
- Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with Science endorsement
- Experience working within and leading Professional Learning Teams (PLTs), CharacterStrong, and MTSS.
- Knowledge of standards-based instruction, assessment practices, and intervention programs
- Strong communication, facilitation, and leadership skills
- Demonstrated evidence of creating and maintaining effective, student-centered classroom environments
- Demonstrated evidence of effectively working with students, families, and staff
- Demonstrated ability to modify instruction to improve student learning through the use of formative, summative, and performance assessment strategies
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior successful teaching experience
- Experience with Professional Learning Communities, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), MTSS, CharacterStrong
- Willingness to provide professional development to adults
Key Competencies and Skills
- Maintains a relentless focus on providing high-quality teaching and learning
- Able to work through and with others
- Able to solve and simplify complex problems
- Able to stay focused, committed, self-assured, and resilient
Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
FLSA Status: Exempt