Elementary Stem Teacher

STEM Teacher

Lakeforest Elementary School is seeking a passionate, innovative STEM Teacher to design and deliver engaging, standards-aligned instruction in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics for students in Pre-K through 6th grade. The STEM Teacher will build a hands-on, inquiry-based learning environment that develops critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills, while embodying and reinforcing the school's PRIDE framework Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and deliver developmentally appropriate STEM lessons and units aligned to NC Standard Course of Study and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for all assigned grade levels.
• Facilitate hands-on, project-based learning experiences, including engineering design challenges, coding and robotics activities, scientific investigations, and mathematical problem-solving tasks.
• Integrate technology tools and computational thinking into instruction, preparing students for 21st-century learning.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to reinforce core content (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies) through cross-curricular STEM connections.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and well-stocked STEM lab/makerspace, including materials, equipment, and technology.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including students receiving Special Education services and English Learners.
• Assess student progress using formative and summative measures; use data to drive instructional decisions and interventions.
• Model and reinforce the school's PRIDE expectations (Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, Excellence) in daily instruction and student interactions.
• Plan and support STEM-related school events, such as Science Fairs, STEM Night, robotics competitions, or engineering showcases.
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), staff meetings, coaching cycles, and instructional walkthroughs.
• Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding student progress and classroom activities.
• Maintain accurate records, grades, and required documentation in accordance with school and district policy.
• Uphold the dress code and professional expectations outlined in the LFE Staff Handbook, including Business Casual as the daily standard.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or Assistant Principals.

Qualifications:

• Required:
  
  Bachelor's Degree in Education, STEM Education, or a related field. Valid North Carolina Teaching License (or eligibility for licensure) with an appropriate elementary or STEM endorsement. Demonstrated knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics content and instructional best practices. Strong classroom management skills and the ability to engage elementary-age students in inquiry-based learning. Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Preferred:
  Experience teaching STEM, science, or a related subject at the elementary level. Experience with coding platforms, robotics kits, or educational technology (e.g., Scratch, Sphero, LEGO Education, Ozobots). Familiarity with project-based learning (PBL) and engineering design process frameworks. Experience with AVID/WICOR strategies or vertical articulation of STEM content.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate STEM instruction across multiple grade levels.
• Strong understanding of child development and elementary instructional strategies.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families.
• Commitment to fostering a growth mindset and a culture of perseverance and excellence in students.
• Flexibility and creativity in adapting instruction to available resources and diverse learner needs.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout a classroom or lab setting for extended periods; ability to lift and move instructional materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.; ability to supervise students during indoor and outdoor activities.