3rd Grade Science Teacher

Position Title: 3rd Grade Science Teacher
Department: Instruction
Reports To: Principal or Dean of Academics
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time (10-Month)

Position Summary

Southern Avenue Charter School is seeking an enthusiastic, innovative, and student-focused 3rd Grade Science Teacher who is passionate about fostering curiosity and developing scientific thinking in elementary students. The ideal candidate will deliver engaging, standards-based science instruction aligned with the Tennessee Academic Standards while creating a classroom culture that encourages inquiry, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver rigorous, hands-on science instruction aligned with the Tennessee Academic Standards.
• Develop engaging lessons that promote scientific inquiry, observation, experimentation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
• Integrate STEM concepts and real-world applications into daily instruction.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of all students, including students with IEPs, 504 Plans, English Learners, and gifted learners.
• Utilize formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly.
• Analyze student performance data to identify learning gaps and implement targeted interventions.
• Create a positive, safe, and engaging classroom environment that promotes respect, collaboration, and student achievement.
• Incorporate educational technology and digital resources to enhance student learning and engagement.
• Encourage students to participate in scientific investigations, projects, and collaborative learning activities.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress, academic performance, and classroom expectations.
• Collaborate with grade-level teachers, interventionists, instructional coaches, and administrators to improve instructional practices and student outcomes.
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), faculty meetings, professional development, and school events.
• Maintain accurate attendance records, grades, lesson plans, and other required documentation.
• Supervise students during assigned duties, including arrival, dismissal, lunch, recess, and school activities.
• Uphold all Southern Avenue Charter School policies, procedures, and professional standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education or a closely related field.
• Valid Tennessee Teaching License with appropriate Elementary Education endorsement.
• Demonstrated knowledge of elementary science instruction and Tennessee Academic Standards.
• Strong classroom management and instructional planning skills.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively use student achievement data to guide instructional decisions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience teaching elementary science.
• Experience integrating STEM education into classroom instruction.
• Experience working in a charter school environment.
• Familiarity with MTSS/RTI instructional practices.
• Experience utilizing educational technology and digital learning platforms.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of elementary science content and inquiry-based instructional practices.
• Ability to engage students through hands-on experiments and interactive learning.
• Effective classroom management and behavior support strategies.
• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Commitment to continuous professional growth and student success.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the school day.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to supervise students in classrooms, laboratories, hallways, cafeteria, playground, and during school-sponsored activities.

Work Environment

Work is performed primarily in a classroom setting with occasional outdoor supervision responsibilities. The position requires frequent interaction with students, staff, parents, and community partners while maintaining a safe and engaging learning environment.