Upper School Science Teacher

Upper School Science Teacher & Advisor (Grades 5-9) The Pike School A Pike education ignites a lifelong journey of discovery. Our community, including our teachers, are at the heart of Pike.

We ground our work in building connection, inspiring curiosity, and cultivating the learning and growth of each of our students. A Pike education liberates human potential and possibility to transform ourselves and our world and is rooted in our motto, Non Sibi Solum. We value:

Authenticity:

We embrace the identities of every person. Intellectual Ambition: We foster curiosity, inquiry, engagement, and initiative in learning.

Social Good: We care for ourselves, for one another, and for our community. As a new school year, new strategic initiatives, and a healthier world await us, we believe we are on the cusp of this brighter future, a world more worthy of our children.

If you are also looking ahead - inquisitive, hopeful, and eager, would you like to help create the future with us? Working at Pike means immersing yourself in a student-centered culture and compassionate, diverse community. We endeavor to be an exemplar for transformational education and a center for purposeful learning, leadership, and impact.

In partnership with the Division Head, our teachers strive to build upon and strengthen a culture of inclusion and belonging where students of all identities thrive and faculty and staff possess the competencies to support our diverse student body. Opportunities for strategic thinking, innovation and learning are plentiful. If you’re passionate, motivated, and can’t help but dream about what’s possible for all children – we invite you to take a closer look at Pike.

The Pike School, an independent elementary school in Andover, MA, serves approximately 425 students, of all genders, in grades pre-kindergarten through nine. The Opportunity: Upper School (5th-9th Grade) Science Teacher The Pike School is seeking an Upper School Science Teacher & Advisor, Grades 5 through 9, beginning in the 2024-2025 school year.

The science department consists of a total of four teachers who collaboratively design the best possible experience for their students. This teacher will also be responsible for an advisory group and should be prepared to teach students at various grade levels in the Upper School. Collaboration and effective communication are essential skills for this position, as are a sense of humor and joy for working with students in this age group and for all of the subject matter included in the Upper School science curriculum.

Core Responsibilities: Designing, planning, and implementing science instruction for students in multiple grade levels in the Upper School (Grades 5-9). Guiding 8-12 students in an advisor capacity; focusing on the social-emotional and academic development of those students in particular, and teaching lessons from the RULER program. Assessing, documenting, and communicating effectively with colleagues and families about student growth and development.

Partnering with administrators, learning specialists, counselors, and teachers in support of the student learning experience. Writing narrative reports three times per year to document student progress in regard to Pike’s Essential Outcomes. Meeting with families for twice-yearly conferences about academic progress and social-emotional development, and on an as-needed basis throughout the year.

As a part of the Upper School program, teachers travel with their students on both day and overnight trips over the course of the year.

Teachers are expected to attend overnight experiences with their students or advisees, if applicable. Desired Qualities and Qualifications:

A passion for working with students in the middle grades. A record of outstanding teaching as well as thoughtful innovation moderated by a skillful and sensitive approach to change. Commitment to professional growth and a PLT model for collaboration.

Commitment to Pike’s values of equity and belonging. Experience in laboratory program development with a particular emphasis on inquiry and skills-based activities. Knowledge of/experience with/a curiosity toward various fields in the sciences (chemistry, biology, environmental and physical sciences). Knowledge of STEM/STEAM-based instruction and integration of technology.

Ability to develop positive working relationships with all constituencies, including students, parents, faculty, and administration. High emotional intelligence and sensitivity to organizational dynamics; exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Desire to work in a dynamic independent school as a team player, eagerly assuming many roles, and devoting the time required to model excellence in job performance.

Intellectual curiosity and a commitment to research/evidence-based practice. Bachelor’s Degree and 2-5 years of classroom experience. Applicants with a background in, and/or passion for, Sustainability or Lego Robotics should indicate such in their cover letter. PI8b75667308d4-31181-34588187