Science Teacher - Dedham Middle School

Middle School Science Teacher (183 Days)Reports To: Principal, Assistant Principal, and/or Science Department ChairOverview: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 ResponsibilitiesTeach 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. QualificationsRequiredMassachusetts DESE License in General Science (Grades 6-8)Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) EndorsementKnowledge of 2016 MA STE Standards and Grade 8 STE MCAS exam structureUnderstanding of laboratory safety protocols and practicesPreferredFamiliarity with OpenSciEd and/or other phenomena-based curriculaExperience with inclusive practices and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Skills & DispositionsDemonstrates ability to differentiate instruction and engage students of diverse backgrounds, identities, and abilitiesCommitment to culturally responsive teaching and fostering an inclusive classroom communityStrong classroom management skills and ability to build positive relationships with studentsReflective practitioner committed to continuous professional growthCollaborative and collegial mindset; openness to feedback and shared problem-solvingEffective communication skills with students, families, and colleaguesTechnological proficiency, including use of digital tools in a 1:1 computing environmentStrong organizational skills and attention to detail Instructional & Professional ExpectationsParticipate in curriculum review and development efforts within the department and across disciplinesDesign lessons that promote inquiry, critical thinking, and connections to real-world applicationsUse a variety of assessment strategies to evaluate student learning and provide timely feedbackMaintain accurate and complete records as required by district policy and legal mandatesSupport student growth in both academic and social-emotional domainsAbide by all applicable state laws, district policies, and ethical guidelinesTake necessary precautions to ensure the safety of students, equipment, and materialsEngage in ongoing professional learning and remain current on instructional best practicesServe on school or district committees as assigned