Middle School Science Teacher (183 Days)

Reports To : Principal, Assistant Principal, and/or Science Department Chair

Overview
In alignment with the mission of the Dedham Public Schools to promote excellence in learning, self-discipline, and motivation, the Middle School Science Teacher fosters inquiry-based learning, supports diverse learners through culturally responsive teaching, and cultivates a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment rooted in scientific thinking and collaboration.

Core Responsibilities

• Teach 5 sections of middle school science aligned with the 2016 MA STE Frameworks.
  
  
• Design and implement engaging, phenomena-based lessons that incorporate scientific and engineering practices.
  
  
• Differentiate instruction to meet the academic, linguistic, and social-emotional needs of all learners.
  
  
• Create a safe and respectful classroom that promotes equity, inclusion, and student voice.
  
  
• Collaborate with grade-level and content-area teams to design interdisciplinary and vertically aligned curriculum.
  
  
• Use assessment data to inform instruction, track student progress, and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.
  
  
• Participate in weekly team meetings, IEP meetings (as required), and parent/guardian conferences to support student learning.
  
  
• Maintain regular, effective communication with families to foster partnerships and support academic and behavioral growth.
  
  
• Uphold laboratory safety standards and ensure a safe learning environment.
  
  
• Support and implement district and school-based initiatives.
  
  

Qualifications

Required

• Massachusetts DESE License in General Science (Grades 6–8)
  
  
• Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement
  
  
• Knowledge of 2016 MA STE Standards and Grade 8 STE MCAS exam structure
  
  
• Understanding of laboratory safety protocols and practices
  
  

Preferred

• Familiarity with OpenSciEd and/or other phenomena-based curricula
  
  
• Experience with inclusive practices and Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
  
  

Skills & Dispositions

• Demonstrates ability to differentiate instruction and engage students of diverse backgrounds, identities, and abilities
  
  
• Commitment to culturally responsive teaching and fostering an inclusive classroom community
  
  
• Strong classroom management skills and ability to build positive relationships with students
  
  
• Reflective practitioner committed to continuous professional growth
  
  
• Collaborative and collegial mindset; openness to feedback and shared problem-solving
  
  
• Effective communication skills with students, families, and colleagues
  
  
• Technological proficiency, including use of digital tools in a 1:1 computing environment
  
  
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  
  

Instructional & Professional Expectations

• Participate in curriculum review and development efforts within the department and across disciplines
  
  
• Design lessons that promote inquiry, critical thinking, and connections to real-world applications
  
  
• Use a variety of assessment strategies to evaluate student learning and provide timely feedback
  
  
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by district policy and legal mandates
  
  
• Support student growth in both academic and social-emotional domains
  
  
• Abide by all applicable state laws, district policies, and ethical guidelines
  
  
• Take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of students, equipment, and materials
  
  
• Engage in ongoing professional learning and remain current on instructional best practices
  
  
• Serve on school or district committees as assigned