FT 8th Grade Science Instructor, Univ of Florida's Developmental Research School

http://jobs.ufl.edu/postings/54742 Job Description: 8th Grade Science Instructor PK Yonge Developmental Research School P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School, a publicly-funded K-12 laboratory school affiliated with the College of Education at the University of Florida, seeks nominations and applications for the position of 8th Grade Science Instructor. This is a full-time, instructional position that reports to the Principal of P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School. The ideal candidate would have middle school science teaching experience and recent training in inquiry-based, learning goals driven science. P.K. Yonge is committed to full implementation of the curriculum Investigating and Questioning our World through Science and Technology (IQWST). The curriculum actively engages students with scientific phenomena through four units of study (physics, chemistry, biology, earth science) each year. Units are organized around driving questions to support studentsunderstanding of essential ideasof science. Scientific practices such as designing and evaluating models, collecting and analyzing data, and making evidence-based arguments are embedded throughout each unit. IQWST was developed through 10 years of support from the National Science Foundation to develop the next generation of science materials. The IQWST curriculum also includes specific features to support teacher learning and implementation such as suggested teaching strategies and alternatives, essential science content, literacy strategies, and specific strategies to identify and address studentsalternative conceptions. P.K. Yonge Instructors are expected to leverage technology to support student learning and facilitate collaboration and communication. As faculty members of a developmental research school, PKY teachers partner with university researchers and PKY teaching colleagues to design and test innovations in response to contemporary educational challenges. As a teacher in a laboratory school, interested candidates should be comfortable with both scheduled and unscheduled observers and visitors. Candidates should also have an interest in teacher education. RESPONSIBILITIES: Specific responsibilities and expectations for an 8th Grade Science Instructor at P.K. Yonge are as follows: Implement IQWST (Investigating and Questioning our World through Science and Technology)--a Florida Standards/Common Core/Next Generation Science Standards aligned, inquiry-based, learning-goals-driven, National Science Foundation science curriculum Administer and analyze formative assessments to monitor student progress and plan instructional shifts to increase achievement and success for all students Incorporate effective and innovative uses of technology to support teaching, learning, and collaboration Maintain regular parent communication (electronically, face-to-face, and conferences) Participate in teacher inquiry to support continuous program improvement Commit to continuous professional learning and ongoing reflection on effectiveness of teaching practice and implemented curriculum for all students Required Qualifications (Education and Experience):(1) a degree in science education (graduate degree preferred); (2) Florida teaching certification (6-12 Science); (3) 3+ years of teaching experience (middle school science teaching experience preferred); (4) excellent oral and written communication skills; and (5) demonstrated commitment to diversity and effective strategies for motivating and teaching students with differing abilities from a variety of backgrounds. Starting Date and Salary:The starting date is August 7, 2014. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with rank and experience. This position is a 10-month appointment. Please see salary schedule for more information: http:hr.ufl.edu/wp-content/uploads/docs/UFF_articles/e_appendix.pdf Open until filled:The position is open until filled. Applicants should complete a candidate profile at http://jobs.ufl.edu and submit a letter of application, a complete curriculum vitae with contact information for professional references, and three letters of recommendation providing evidence of effective teaching experience and ongoing collaboration with teaching colleagues. About P.K. Yonge:Established in 1934, PK Yonge Developmental Research School is a public school district affiliated with the University of Florida and located on its campus. The school serves approximately 1,150 students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. The school is designated as a special school district under Florida Department of Education funding and is given the responsibility to develop innovative solutions to educational concerns in the state and to disseminate successful instructional programs to other school districts. As a developmental research school, PK Yonge works closely with members of the College of Education on a variety of projects aimed at enhancing student accomplishments at all grade levels and in all subject areas. For more information about the PK Yonge Developmental Research School, visit our website at: http://www.pkyonge.ufl.edu About the College:The UF College of Education, founded in 1906, ranks among the top 25 public education colleges in the elite Association of American Universities. The college105 distinguished faculty members engage in innovative research and public scholarship that enhance school improvement, student achievement, school readiness and leadership development in the numerous education disciplines. Current research projects have generated more than $29 million in external funding. Nearly 1,900 students are enrolled in 20 bachelorand advanced degree programs, offered within the academic areas of Teaching and Learning, Special Education and Early Childhood Studies, Counselor Education, School Psychology, Educational Administration and Higher Education, and Research and Evaluation Methodology. Online course enrollment tops 2,900. The collegeeducator preparation programs have been continuously accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) since 1954. For more information about the College, visit our website at: http://www.coe.ufl.edu/. The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution. The selection process will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Floridain the Sunshineand Public Records laws.