Innovation Lab Teacher

Job Description

The Innovation Lab Specialist will foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving by providing students with hands-on, project-based learning experiences. This role supports the development of skills through integration of technology, design thinking, and collaborative inquiry.

Key Expectations

1. Instruction & Student Learning

• Develop and implement a vertically aligned K–2 Innovation Lab curriculum that introduces students to design thinking, creative problem-solving, STEM exploration, and purposeful technology use through engaging, hands-on projects
• Facilitate design-thinking and project-based learning challenges that develop creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking
• Teach students to identify problems, brainstorm solutions, prototype ideas, test designs, and iterate improvements
• Guide students in using tools such as makerspace materials, robotics kits, coding platforms, and digital design tools
• Introduce age-appropriate concepts related to engineering, technology, and digital creativity
• Encourage perseverance and reflection by helping students learn from mistakes and redesign solutions

2. Technology Integration

• Teach students to use technology as a tool for designing, creating, researching, and presenting ideas
• Support foundational coding, robotics, digital design, and computational thinking skills
• Reinforce appropriate digital citizenship and responsible technology use

3. Collaboration

• Partner with classroom teachers to support curriculum connections and interdisciplinary projects
• Participate in school initiatives that promote creativity, inquiry, and experiential learning
• Deliver lessons within the general education classroom alongside the teacher, using co-teaching models such as team teaching, station teaching, or parallel teaching to differentiate instruction.
• Model the effective use of educational technology during push-in sessions to increase classroom teacher capacity

4. Innovation Lab Management

• Create a welcoming, flexible space that encourages exploration and collaboration 
• Maintain and organize the innovation lab, makerspace tools, and technology equipment
• Ensure student safety and responsible use of equipment and materials
• Manage supplies and recommend purchases that support innovative learning experiences

5. Assessment & Growth

• Assess student learning through projects, reflections, presentations, and collaborative work
• Provide feedback that encourages growth in problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity
• Continuously develop the Innovation Lab program to support the school's mission and vision