Science Teacher Grades 5-12 (Gilbert, AZ or Goodyear, AZ)

Job Description About ReThink MicroschoolsReThink Microschools is a specialized educational institution exclusively serving students with high-functioning autism in grades K-12. We celebrate neurodiversity as a strength and provide personalized, rigorous education in small classroom settings. Our mission is to create learning environments where every student is seen, supported, and inspired to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.Position OverviewWe are seeking a passionate, innovative Science Teacher to join our mission-driven team. In this role, you'll teach science to small groups of students with high-functioning autism (maximum 8 per class). You'll have the unique opportunity to leverage students' natural curiosity, attention to detail, and systematic thinking to create transformative science learning experiences that are hands-on, inquiry-based, and deeply engaging.Key ResponsibilitiesInstructional ExcellenceDesign and deliver engaging, differentiated science instruction across disciplines (Life Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, Chemistry, Physics, Biology)Implement inquiry-based, hands-on learning experiences that align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)Utilize visual supports, concrete demonstrations, and systematic investigationsMake abstract scientific concepts concrete through experiments, models, and real-world applicationsFoster scientific thinking, observation skills, and evidence-based reasoningConnect science content to students' special interests and fascinationsBreak down complex processes into clear, sequential stepsProvide structured lab experiences with explicit safety procedures and expectationsAutism-Affirming SupportDevelop individualized learning plans that build on student strengths in pattern recognition and logical thinkingRecognize and accommodate sensory sensitivities during hands-on activities and labsSupport executive function challenges (organizing materials, following multi-step procedures, lab reports)Provide clear, explicit instructions with visual lab protocols and procedure cardsBuild predictable lab routines while maintaining the excitement of scientific discoveryAddress science anxiety and build confidence through success-oriented investigationsLeverage special interests (dinosaurs, astronomy, chemistry, animals, etc.) to drive engagementTeach scientific vocabulary explicitly with visual supports and real-world examplesStudent Relationships & CommunicationBuild authentic, trust-based relationships with students in our small class settingUnderstand and respect each student's communication style and social preferencesProvide direct, specific feedback on scientific work and thinkingFoster a growth mindset around scientific inquiry and "productive failure"Communicate regularly with families about discoveries, progress, and hands-on projectsCollaborate with families to extend learning through home experiments and observationsLaboratory & Safety ManagementMaintain a safe, organized, and sensory-friendly science lab environmentTeach and reinforce laboratory safety procedures explicitlyManage science materials, equipment, and living organisms responsiblyPrepare demonstrations and experiments with attention to sensory considerationsEnsure accessibility of all scientific tools and resourcesDocument and communicate any safety concerns immediatelyCollaboration & Professional GrowthWork closely with support staff, therapists, and educational teamParticipate in ongoing professional development in autism education and science pedagogyContribute to curriculum development and STEM program improvementShare effective strategies and successful experiments with colleaguesMaintain accurate records of student progress, lab work, and scientific portfoliosCoordinate field trips to science museums, nature centers, and research facilitiesClassroom EnvironmentCreate an organized, sensory-friendly science classroom spaceImplement visual supportsEstablish clear expectations and consistent routines for investigationsBalance hands-on exploration with structured proceduresUse autism-affirming language that celebrates different ways of observing and thinkingCelebrate neurodivergent approaches to scientific problem-solvingQualificationsRequired:Bachelor's degree in Science, Science Education, or related field (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, etc.)Valid Arizona teaching certification (or ability to obtain)Vaild IVP CardExperience teaching science at the K-12 levelDemonstrated understanding of autism spectrum characteristicsStrong content knowledge across multiple science disciplinesAbility to conduct safe, engaging hands-on laboratory experiencesExcellent communication skills with students, families, and colleaguesCommitment to autism-affirming, neurodiversity-celebrating educationPatience, flexibility, and enthusiasm for scientific discoveryPreferred:Master's degree in Science Education, Special Education, or STEM fieldSpecial education certification or autism endorsementDirect classroom experience teaching students with autismTraining in NGSS, inquiry-based learning, or project-based scienceKnowledge of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and differentiationUnderstanding of executive function challenges and compensatory strategiesExperience with visual supports, task analysis, and structured teaching methodsFamiliarity with science-related assistive technology and educational appsBackground in environmental education, citizen science, or STEM programsExperience maintaining classroom animals, plants, or ecosystemsEssential Attributes:Deep respect for neurodivergent learners and their unique perspectivesGenuine enthusiasm for making science accessible and excitingDetail-oriented with strong organizational and safety-conscious mindsetAbility to explain complex phenomena in clear, concrete termsGrowth mindset and commitment to continuous learningCollaborative spirit and team-oriented approachCreativity in designing experiments that accommodate sensory needsUnderstanding that many autistic students have exceptional observational skillsUnderstanding Our StudentsOur students with high-functioning autism are naturally gifted scientific thinkers who may:Excel in systematic observation, pattern recognition, and attention to detailDemonstrate intense focus on topics of interestPrefer concrete, visual, and hands-on learning over abstract lecturesNeed additional support with executive function, organization, and multi-step proceduresRequire explicit instruction in collaborative group work and scientific communicationHave deep knowledge in specific areas of science (e.g., paleontology, astronomy, entomology)Benefit from predictable lab routines and clear safety expectationsExperience sensory sensitivities to sounds, textures, or smells in experimentsThink systematically—making them natural scientistsAsk profound questions that push scientific thinkingYour role is to nurture their scientific minds and help them see themselves as scientists.What We OfferTransformative Impact: Small class sizes allow you to deeply mentor each young scientistCreative Freedom: Design experiments and investigations tailored to student interestsSpecialized Training: Ongoing professional development in autism education and science pedagogyCollaborative Culture: Work with passionate educators committed to the same missionResources & Materials: Access to lab equipment, science curricula, and hands-on suppliesField Trip Opportunities: Take students to science museums, observatories, nature preservesMeaningful Relationships: Time to build genuine connections with students and familiesReasonable Workload: Manageable class sizes and dedicated planning/prep timeCompetitive Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience and qualificationsA Day in the LifeYour typical day might include:Conducting a hands-on experiment on states of matter with visual lab proceduresFacilitating small group observations of classroom ecosystemsSupporting a student's independent research project on their special interest (black holes, volcanoes, sharks)Collaborating with colleagues to integrate science with math and literacyDocumenting student observations through photos, videos, and lab journalsCommunicating with families about upcoming projects and home extension activitiesCelebrating "aha moments" when scientific concepts clickWitnessing students' eyes light up during an unexpected experimental resultPhysical RequirementsAbility to sit, stand, and move around the classroom and lab for extended periodsAbility to remain calm and regulated during student dysregulationFlexibility to engage in outdoor learning (nature walks, observations, field work)Capability to manage potential allergens, chemicals, and living organisms safely