Middle School Computer Science Teacher

Role Title: Computer Science Teacher (Grades 6-8)

Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt

Reports to: Director of Educational & Informational Technology

Key Responsibilities: (The primary tasks, functions and deliverables of the role)

• Design and continually develop robust lessons in the following subjects: technology operations, coding, 3D modeling/printing, robotics, electronics, and web design
• Educate students to be responsible and ethical users of technology through the instruction of digital citizenship and literacy
• Know and use a wide range of assessment strategies consistent with course content and learning objectives
• Differentiate instruction and assessments to meet the diverse needs of students
• Select and plan appropriate learning and teaching activities that are in alignment with Henderson International School standards and the Henderson Technology Academic Plan
• Develop lessons that engage students in higher order thinking and problem–solving
• Encourage students to set realistic goals and to use their time in a constructive and balanced manner
• Foster creativity through the offering of technology focused STEAM electives and clubs
• Cultivate and support independent study projects in students who demonstrate cravings for extended learning experiences
• Attend and/or present at functions in support of the school and community as needed
• Attend and participate in staff development programs, faculty events, meetings, and serve on staff committees as required
• Lead educational technology faculty professional development and trainings as needed
• Understand and implement the HIS Technology Scope & Sequence and curriculum into instruction
• Research emerging technologies for instructional content relevancy
• Provide a safe and nurturing learning environment in which students can take intellectual risks
• Create an atmosphere of mutual respect, confidentiality and support with students, parents, and colleagues
• Foster a creative, flexible, and collaborative learning environment
• Help students develop habits of mind and skills that will enable them to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers and effective problem solvers
• Follow and promote the school code of conduct, social media, and acceptable use policies
• Other duties as assigned

Required Experience, Skills and Competencies (The abilities needed in order to perform this role effectively)

• Bachelor's Degree
• Experience teaching in elementary and middle school environments
• Ability to adapt quickly to instruct various grade levels
• Basic knowledge in some of the following subject areas: technology operations, coding, 3D modeling/printing, robotics, electronics, or web design
• Ability to research, develop, and implement emerging technologies and trends into instruction to modernize curriculum content and maintain relevancy
• Knowledge and understanding of current and emerging digital privacy laws
• Ability to protect and ensure the privacy of confidential school information
• Proficiency in the following areas: Apple products (Mac/iPad), Google, basic programming in Python and HTML
• An understanding of key learning theories and methods of instruction, and their relation to technology integration
• Outstanding listening and presentation skills
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills
• Effective organizational skills including but not limited to lesson planning, implementing units of study, differentiating instruction, designing and implementing assessments, analyzing data to inform instructional choices
• Ability to monitor student progress and report information in a timely manner
• Ability to mentor and coach students, and to serve as a student advocate and advisor
• Highly developed collaborative leadership skills and the ability to work well with others as part of a team
• Ability to demonstrate in your actions the Mission, Vision, and Guiding Principles of the School
• Ability to foster and maintain a positive school climate

Preferred Experience, Skills and Competencies

• Master's Degree in Education
• Previous programing experience
• Working knowledge of Adobe products: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
• Experience with Arduinos, Raspberry Pi, Drones, LEGO Mindstorm
• Working knowledge of Hapara, IXL, Code.org, MobyMax, TypingAgent, SpellingCity, Atlas Rubicon, Khan Academy or similar