Chemical Science Specialist, Alabama Science in Motion program (ASIM),

AMSTI is the Alabama State Department of Education’s (ALSDE) initiative to improve

STEM education in Alabama so that all students develop the skills necessary for

success in post-secondary studies and the workforce. Established in 1994, ASIM now

serves as the secondary science component of AMSTI.

ASIM/Secondary Science Specialists support schools by providing professional

learning, instructional materials, and educator support (through coaching) needed to

implement the current Alabama Course of Study Standards: Science in grades 6-12

(including but not limited to biology, chemistry, and/or physics).

Regional assignments (schools/districts and grade levels/content areas) will be

based on regional needs and are subject to change based on regional data.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING:

1. Facilitate and/or participate in professional learning for teachers and/or administrators based on assignments and/or LEA needs, including online options.

2. Assist AMSTI-ALSDE in developing and maintaining common professional learning offerings and supporting resources for AMSTI and/or for the ALSDE, including online options.

3. Provide ongoing professional learning to AMSTI lead teachers, certified AMSTI facilitators, and/or instructional coaches.

4. Assist IHEs with planning and conducting pre-service and continuing education/outreach activities.

5. Participate in AMSTI professional learning activities and staff meetings conducted by the ALSDE and Site Director, unless prior approval for absence is granted.

EDUCATOR SUPPORT:

6. Provide frequent, ongoing support and coaching to teachers, AMSTI lead teachers, certified AMSTI facilitators, instructional coaches, and/or administrators based on assignments and/or LEA needs as defined annually based on data.

7. Assist AMSTI teachers in effectively using common planning time and Professional Learning Communities to improve instruction.

8. Assist in recruiting new AMSTI teachers and/or facilitators.

9. Conduct research on the effects of current math, science, and/or technology practices in AMSTI classrooms, as requested by the ALSDE.

10. Coordinate work through the AMSTI Site Director, collaborate with other specialists, and communicate with all stakeholders.

11. Achieve and maintain proficiency in all standards, pedagogical content knowledge, and AMSTI lessons and practices through AMSTI-ALSDE and approved outside professional learning opportunities, based on the AMSTI requirements.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS:

12. Work with materials managers to make site-level decisions based on teacher needs/requests.

Some preparation, delivery, pick up, and maintenance of lesson materials and equipment may be required, including lifting (up to 50 pounds) and driving (box truck or delivery van)

13. Provide feedback to the ALSDE regarding the customization of kits and materials to make them teacher/classroom-friendly.

GENERAL DUTIES:

14. Maintain records (including financial) and complete paperwork in a timely manner.
15. Participate in the development, maintenance, and promotion of AMSTI resources according to the resource development and PR requirements.

16. Communicate with AMSTI Site Director and ALSDE in advance as it pertains to retirement or resignation plans (under normal circumstances, a minimum of six-month advance notice is requested)
17. ASIM/ Secondary Science Specialist responsibilities include but are not limited to those listed in all categories above; specialists may be required to perform other duties as assigned by the AMSTI Site Director or AMSTI-ALSDE, including overnight travel.

Essential Job Duties are intended to be examples of duties and are not intended to be all-inclusive. There will be other duties as assigned. The individual holding this position will serve as a representative of the University and, as such, shall promote a positive impression by demonstrating a collegial and professional customer-service approach at all times.

Ability to lift heavy objects (at or below 40 pounds) required. Transport of science equipment and laboratory supplies to area schools.

The University of Montevallo does not discriminate against job applicants based on their national origin or citizenship or immigration status. Because of the costs associated with visa sponsorship/transfer, the University typically will not sponsor applicants for a work visa or transfer of an existing visa. No commitment for visa assistance and/or sponsorship can be made until a thorough search is conducted, including a proper and methodical review of all applicants.

UM is an Equal Opportunity Institution.