What are the responsibilities and job description for the Innovation Lab Facilitator position at The Oakwood School?
The Oakwood School seeks an energetic and creative Innovation Lab Facilitator to lead the Lower and Middle School Innovation Lab program for the 2026-2027 school year. The facilitator will work with students in grades Kindergarten through 7th grade in a STEAM-based learning environment where students explore robotics, circuitry, engineering, graphic design, video production, and other emerging technologies. The ideal candidate will have a passion for hands-on learning and guiding students through project-based exploration and problem-solving.
Primary Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities
- Model and instill a love of learning, creativity, and innovation.
- Design and implement engaging project-based learning experiences aligned with school standards and student needs.
- Coach and guide students as they work through projects involving robotics, circuitry, design, and other STEAM-based technologies.
- Create a positive and respectful learning environment where students feel comfortable experimenting and taking risks.
- Maintain clear expectations and effective classroom structures that support a focused and productive learning environment.
- Support students in the use of lab hardware and software and evaluate completed projects using established rubrics.
- Monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies to support all learners.
- Serve as an advocate for the Innovation Lab program and collaborate with faculty to support cross-curricular learning opportunities.
- Partner with the Upper School Innovation Lab Facilitator and the Director of Teaching and Learning to support continuity of Innovation Lab programming and help create a smooth transition for students between divisions.
- Utilize technology as both a teaching tool and communication platform to enhance student learning and manage classroom tasks.
- Assist in shaping the continued development and scope of the Innovation Lab program.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with students and families built on trust, understanding, and respect.
- Maintain accurate records related to student progress and project completion.
- Participate in faculty meetings, grade-level collaboration, before and after-school duties, Oakwood functions, clubs, athletic events, and other responsibilities as assigned.
- Take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of students and proper care of equipment, materials, and facilities.
- A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field.
- A Master’s degree and prior teaching experience with students in grades Kindergarten through 7th is preferred.
- Experience with project-based learning, STEAM education, or maker-space environments is desirable.
- Comfort learning and working with emerging technologies and helping students problem-solve technical challenges.
- The ability to differentiate a rich, varied, and developmentally appropriate curriculum based on best practices and current research.
- A desire to work in a diverse and inclusive school environment.
- A commitment to work collaboratively and innovatively with colleagues.
- Ability to communicate respectfully, proactively, and honestly both verbally and in writing with parents, colleagues, and administrators regarding curriculum, students, and child development issues.