What are the responsibilities and job description for the Instructional Specialist (Science) 2026-2027 position at Powhatan County Public Schools?
Job Title: Instructional Specialist for Science
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Status: Non-Classified
Contract Length: 12 month position
License Required: Yes (DOE)
Reports to: Chief Academic Officer
Summary
The Instructional Specialist for Science promotes the best instructional practices and introduces innovative ideas for grades K - 12. The specialist coordinates and leads curriculum writing, implementation of instructional strategies and grade level/subject area assessments, as well as professional development, coaching, and data-driven decision making. The Instructional Specialist for Science leads the selection process, training, and implementation of instructional materials, including textbooks, software and technology. All work focuses on improving achievement for every student.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist the division in the development, implementation, and assessment of long- and short-range curricular goals and objectives consistent with the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL).
- Facilitate the selection of textbooks, instructional software, technology resources and other materials.
- Assist in the development of subject area budgets for professional development and innovative teaching resources for the division; Advise each principal regarding subject area budget needs in his/her school.
- Oversee the preparation of courses of study, course outlines, pacing guides, assessments, and program guides for each Science pathway.
- Assess curricular and instructional needs in the appropriate subject area and make recommendations for program improvement.
- Assist administrators and teachers with analyzing student performance data to determine appropriate next steps.
- Oversee and report the data disaggregation of content area assessments, not limited to benchmark and SOL tests.
- Lead grade level and content area meetings at all schools for the purpose of disseminating information, reviewing data, and discussing instructional needs.
- Support teachers and administrators with the identification of strategies and the development of schedules to support remediation and intervention.
- Assist administrators and teachers in assessing the effectiveness of various remediation efforts to ensure student progress occurs.
- Interface and work closely with the instructional team as well as school-based personnel.
- Curate and maintain a subject area repository with curriculum and instructional resources.
- Supervise the STEM coach and guide the work of the grade level and Science lead teachers.
- Assist principals in the assignment of teachers in the various course offerings based on Licensure.
- Observe teachers and offer suggestions for improvement and/or better alignment to instructional expectations.
- Attend conferences and workshops in order to keep the division abreast of new developments and to prepare staff development opportunities for division teachers and leaders.
- Facilitate subject area grant proposals to fund instructional initiatives.
- Make presentations to students, staff, School Board, parents, and the community parents in both formal and information capacities.
- Perform any other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Hold a valid Virginia Postgraduate Professional License.
- Be highly qualified in appropriate subject area.
- Have thorough knowledge of subject area, appropriate instructional techniques, and pedagogy.
- Demonstrate ability to use appropriate instructional and administrative technology.
- Demonstrate ability to design and implement appropriate staff development activities.
Education and/or Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required (in a science related area preferred)
- Master’s Degree and Administrative Endorsement required
- A minimum of three years teaching experience in a science subject area.
Language Skills
- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Correct grammar in all communication is expected.
Reasoning/Other Abilities
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Proactively identifies needs, initiates action, and drives tasks to completion without requiring close oversight.
- Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Proficiency in data analysis and educational assessment tools.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and educational software applications.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude, collaborative skills, and skills in human relations.
- Demonstrate initiative and leadership skills; ability to work and complete tasks with minimal oversight.
Physical Demands
- Capable of traveling from school to school.
- Capable of carrying heavy items, i.e. laptop computer, LCD projector, textbooks, instructional kits, and other equipment.
- Work involves limited physical tasks and may involve infrequent operation of office equipment.
Work Environment
- Based in one building, but must visit all schools and report to central office frequently.
Evaluation
- Performed by Chief Academic Officer in accordance with school board policy and administrative regulations on evaluation of licensed personnel.
Salary : $78,831 - $118,227