Humanities Teacher (Probationary)
Scarsdale Middle School CHOICE Program
Since its inception in 1974, the CHOICE program has provided an alternative learning experience for seventh and eighth graders. In this smaller school atmosphere, students and teachers can work together to create a positive, supportive community. CHOICE develops a close-knit community of learners over a two-year period. In addition to its academic focus, the program especially seeks to foster personal growth and development. Group process, community service, and self-governance help students form a sense of community that is special and meaningful.
The curriculum includes mathematics, science, Humanities, and CHOICE Studies while students integrate with the main building for foreign language, quarterly, and PE/music. Mathematics students follow the seventh-grade advanced mathematics curriculum that prepares them for the high school level math class in 8th grade. Science classes emphasize hands-on laboratory learning and science applications. The Humanities program combines the teaching of English and social studies and focuses on historical turning points.
Scarsdale Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described.
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' knowledge and understanding of history; to develop skills in research, and develop an understanding of the existence and importance of geographical, historical, cultural and political factors that influence the development of societies, socio-economic systems and political systems, as well as their inter-relationship and interdependence.
Essential Functions
- Create an environment of belonging and inclusion for each and every child in the classroom.
- Develop and administer Social Studies education curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
- Promote a classroom environment that is safe and encourages risk-taking and mistake-making as part of the learning process.
- Develop lesson plans and instructional materials and translate lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
- Teach knowledge and skills in Social Studies content areas including an understanding of how history connects to current events.
- Include and elevate all voices from history including groups that have been historically marginalized.
- Conduct ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modify instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs.
- Maintain familiarity with district and New York State standardized tests for the purpose of adapting curriculum to maximize student achievement on such tests.
- Continue to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
- Collaborate with colleagues and participate in school and community-building opportunities.
- Organize and maintain a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
- Encourage parental involvement in students' education and ensure effective communication with students and parents.
- Ensure that student conduct conforms to the school's standards and school district policies, and establish and maintain standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
- Select and requisition appropriate books, instructional aids, and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
- Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
- Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers.
- Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
- Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
- Knowledge of social studies in a variety of sub-topic, including history, geography, sociology, economics, political science, systems of government, education, responsible citizenship, anthropology, and humanities.
- Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
- Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
- Ability to organize and coordinate work.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
- Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
- Works in standard office and school building environments.
Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
Education
- Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignments.
- Masters Degree preferred.
- Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.