8th & 9th Grade Science Teacher

Company Overview

The Fund for Advancement of Minorities through Education (FAME) is a non-profit organization making a large impact on the lives of students of color in the Greater Pittsburgh area. FAME was established over 30 years ago to provide need-based scholarships to bright and talented African American students, making a high-quality independent school education possible.

FAME Academy Overview

The FAME Academy honors the comprehensive needs of talented African American student by offering a proven template of preparatory activities designed to cultivate success at an independent private high school and ultimately prepare them for college. FAME Academy programs foster a smooth, informed, and well-matched transition for its participants into FAME’s participating high schools. With our eyes on that goal, FAME Academy provides students an exceptional preparation for success in the high school of their choice.

Position Overview

FAME is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic teacher to serve as a 8th & 9th Grade Science Teacher (2 classes). This position will support FAME as it continues to prepare middle school students to fully realize their educational opportunities through the FAME Academy program. A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate knowledge of content and pedagogy, knowledge of Pennsylvania's academic standards and a sound understanding of how to prepare, direct and guide instruction. Candidates with the skillset and interest in teaching another class or subject (for example, 6th & 7th Grade Science) will be considered. The maximum number of classes per teacher will be 4 classes. Select candidates will be given the opportunity to supervise and mentor teaching fellows, based on interest and skillset.

Essential Duties

The 8th & 9th Grade Science Teacher will be responsible for planning and delivering a rigorous Science curriculum that is comparable to that which students would see in an independent school. The responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver lesson plans for 8th & 9th Grade Science.
• Apply contemporary principles of learning theory and teaching methodology.
• Participate in the development and implementation of new teaching techniques.
• Ensure lessons are rigorous, clear, and measurable.
• Facilitate active learning by teaching, guiding, and mentoring students.
• Incorporate direct instruction, discussion, projects, and cooperative work to engage students, keep class focused, and infuse a lasting desire to learn.
• Develop and use assessments that measure student progress toward the lesson plan.
• Model and teach leadership skills.
• Maintain an organized classroom environment that facilitates learning.
• Maintain and communicate high academic and personal expectations for all students.
• Follow FAME’s policies and procedures for student conduct.
• Communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.

Class Schedule

• The contract start date is May 20, 2024.
• The program will run from June 17, 2024, through July 26, 2023.
• Program hours will be 8:15am to 3:15pm, Monday through Friday.
• This position will teach 2 classes; interested candidates may teach up to 4 classes total.
• This position will work for 1 hour per class, Monday through Friday in the morning.
• The final program week will have extended hours and possibly have an overnight stay.
• No Saturday work is required during holiday breaks.
• Contract extensions into the 2024-2025 school year may be offered.

Compensation

• The total compensation for this position will be $1,250 per class over the summer. ($2500 total for 2 classes).
• The overnight stay opportunity is included in the total compensation.

Experience/Education Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree related to the subject you will be teaching is preferred, and/or equivalent work experience in an academic setting or in youth development.
• A minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience with students from underserved communities.
• Pennsylvania teaching certification is preferred.
• Previous teaching experience, and strong knowledge in the area(s) of specialization.
• Must have current clearances valid within the last 24 months or willingness to obtain the clearances; expenses paid by the contractor.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to be a culturally responsive educator who knows how to leverage students' unique skills, interests, and learning styles to create a learning experience that includes and empowers students.
• Knowledge of academics, college-prep curriculum, scheduling, program planning and development, and be able to produce and achieve program outcomes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, proactive and able to troubleshoot and efficiently solve problems.
• Comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively as a member of a team.
• Able to multitask, forge strong relationships and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, database and event platforms, such as Schoolmint and Alma.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.