Description
Primary Purpose:
The STEM elementary Project Lead The Way (PLTW) teacher provides students with engaging and rigorous learning experiences using the PLTW Launch curriculum to help them reach their full intellectual, emotional, physical, and social potential. The teacher fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation through STEM-focused activities that build essential competencies, empowering students to thrive and contribute meaningfully in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven society.
Qualifications:
Education/Certification
Bachelor’s degree from accredited university
Valid Texas teaching certification with required endorsements or training for subject and level assigned
Demonstrated competency in the core academic subject areas
Special Knowledge/Skills
Knowledge of STEM fluency skills, Project Based Learning (PBL) and Engineering Design Process (EDP)
Innovative in lesson design and delivery
Contributes to a culture, climate, and environment that values collaboration
Ability to build partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide real-world experiences
Ability to tell the AISD stories of inspiration, success, and opportunities
Fosters a classroom environment with high structure and positive relationships
Demonstrate a belief that all students can achieve high levels of rigor
Knowledge of core academic subjects assigned
General knowledge of curriculum and instruction
Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in a dynamic educational environment
Experience
Experience implementing PLTW curriculum and/or Project-Based Learning (PBL)
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Instructional Strategies
Plan and deliver lessons based using the PLTW Launch curriculum and/or other STEM curriculum
Utilize a variety of instructional strategies and adapt complex STEM concepts for varying developmental levels ensuring accessibility for all learners, including those with diverse learning needs.
Collaborate with homeroom teachers to reinforce core concepts (literacy and math) within STEM projects.
Integrate technology to enhance real-world applications to the learner’s experience.
Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, materials, and technology
Plan and assign work to instructional aide(s) and volunteer(s) and oversee completion
Student Growth and Development
Assess and document student mastery of curriculum objectives and student progress
Analyze formal and informal assessment data, and adjust teaching strategies to meet individual student needs
Actively seek out professional development
Motivate students to explore and engage in utilizing STEM instructional strategies
Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities.
Be a positive role model for students. Support the mission of the school and the district.
Classroom Management and Organization
Develop a classroom community that promotes student collaboration and ownership of academic performance and behavior
Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, emotional, and leadership development of students
Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook
Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
Assist in selecting books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
Compile and maintain required records.
Organize, maintain, and inventory STEM materials
Communication
Actively collaborate with colleagues.
Share best practices.
Establish and maintain a professional relationship and open communication with parents, students, colleagues, and community members.
Develop and maintain partnerships with external organizations, universities, and STEM professionals to provide enrichment opportunities, mentorships, and guest speakers for students.
Professional Growth and Development
Participate in required PLTW Core Training (Launch) and ongoing professional development to stay current on STEM pedagogy and software updates.Adjust instruction to meet the evolving demands of STEM education.
Showcase student work through science fairs, family STEM nights, or district showcases to engage parents and the community.
Contribute to a culture, climate, and environment that values collaboration.
Willing to try different approaches.
Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
Comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.
Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Students
Direct the work of assigned instructional aide(s).
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
Tools and Equipment: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals, Promethean panel, standard instructional equipment, copier, printer, phone, AED (P.E. teachers)
Software: Student Information System, Google applications
Physical Demands: Prolonged standing, frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting, frequent walking, regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds), may lift and move text books and classroom equipment, occasional physical restraint of students to control behavior (if trained), frequent keyboarding and use of mouse
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress, work prolonged or irregular hours, work with frequent interruptions
Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather), regular exposure to noise, occasional districtwide and statewide travel, biological exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases
Wage/Hour Status: Exempt
Pay Grade: Teacher, Librarians, & Nurses (RN) Salary Plan
Stipend: STEM implementation year stipend ($10,000)
Master's Degree: Additional $1,000 annual stipend
The Abilene ISD does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Employment decisions will be made on the basis of each applicant's job qualifications, experience, and abilities.
The foregoing statements describe the general role and responsibilities assigned to this job. I understand this is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned; other duties may be assigned as needed.