Description
Primary Purpose:
The STEM Physical Education Teacher provides students with engaging and rigorous learning experiences by placing a strong emphasis on integrating principles of physics, physiology, and mathematics into movement education. The teacher fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration through STEM-focused activities and inquiry-based physical challenges. This approach builds essential competencies, empowering students to reach their full intellectual, emotional, and physical potential while preparing them to thrive 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 area assigned [Physical Education Teachers: Current AED certificate]
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
General knowledge of curriculum and instruction
Actively collaborate with classroom teachers to reinforce academic vocabulary in the gym
Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
Ability to organize and manage large groups of students in high-energy environments (indoor and outdoor)
Comfort using (or willingness to learn) educational technology
Ability to work cooperatively with others and maintain a positive attitude in the work environment
Ability to use good judgment in problem-solving and decision-making
Ability to communicate effectively
Ability to work well with children in high-energy environments
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in a dynamic educational environment
Experience
One year student teaching or approved internship
STEM education experience preferred
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Instructional Strategies
Creates hands-on, inquiry based physical experiences that promote problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration
Integrates math, science and technology to enhance real-world applications to the learner’s experience.
Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the district's physical education curriculum program and incorporate innovative lesson designs including STEM and Project Based Learning
Utilize a variety of instructional strategies to meet the diverse needs of students
Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, materials, and technology
Work cooperatively with special education teachers to modify curricula, activities and equipment as needed
Work with other members of staff to determine instructional goals and objectives
Plan and assign work to instructional aide(s) and volunteer(s) and oversee completion and engagement with students
Adjust instruction to meet the evolving demands of STEM education and physical literacy.
Student Growth and Development
Assess and document student mastery of curriculum objectives, physical skills, health concepts, 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 the connection between a healthy lifestyle and academic performance
Motivate students to explore and engage in utilizing STEM instructional strategies
Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities
Assume responsibility for organizing campus-wide events, such as Field Day, Kids Heart Challenge, etc.
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, sportsmanship and fair play
Monitor student safety during high-activity lessons to prevent collisions and injuries.
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.
Assist in selecting and ordering athletic equipment that supports both standard P.E. and STEM inquiry
Compile and maintain required records.
Communication
Actively collaborate with colleagues.
Share best practices.
Establish and maintain a professional relationship and open communication with parents, students, colleagues, and community members.
Professional Growth and Development
Adjust instruction to meet the evolving demands of STEM education.
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.
Participate in staff development activities, specifically regarding student safety and first aid
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Direct the work and schedule 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.