Middle School Science Teacher

Overview

The Pingry School, a prestigious K-12 coeducational, independent day school with a rich history dating back to its founding by Dr. John

F. Pingry in 1861, stands at the forefront of academic excellence in the United States. With campuses located in Basking Ridge, Pottersville, and Short Hills, New Jersey, Pingry is celebrated for its academic programs, a student-written Honor Code that underpins our community values, and a comprehensive commitment to arts, athletics, community, and civic engagement. Our mission is to inspire in our students a lifelong passion for learning, personal development, and social responsibility, preparing them to be global citizens and luminaries of the 21st century.

Rooted in relationships and guided by our foundational philosophy, Pingry is a vibrant community of more than 1,200 students hailing from over 90 towns across New Jersey and New York. At Pingry, we are united by a love of learning and a commitment to preparing students to navigate the complexities of the 21st century with confidence and integrity. For more information, we invite you to visit our website  or connect with The Pingry School on Facebook, X, and Instagram to discover why we love school.

The Pingry School seeks a dynamic and intellectually engaging Middle School Science Teacher for the  school year. This role is designed for an educator who views science as a process of inquiry, discovery, and critical thinking.

We are looking for collaborative educators who thrive in a student-centered environment where hands-on experimentation and the scientific method are the primary vehicles for learning. The ideal candidate is a versatile practitioner who can spark "wonder" in middle schoolers, guiding them through the foundational principles of life, physical, and earth sciences. We seek professionals who prioritize active learning and possess the relational skills necessary to navigate the unique social and emotional developmental stages of Middle School students.

Beyond the lab, these educators serve as dedicated mentors and advisors who foster a culture of curiosity and intellectual risk-taking.

The Middle School Science department seeks professionals who:

Facilitate Inquiry-Based Learning: You prioritize hands-on experimentation and student-led questioning over traditional lecturing, guiding students to "do" science rather than just read about it.

Demonstrate Curricular Versatility: You are comfortable teaching a range of Middle School science topics from cellular biology to introductory chemistry and physics.

Serve as Relational Mentors: You understand that Middle School success is built on a foundation of trust and emotional well-being, and you excel in the role of an advisor and advocate for young learners.

Act as Collaborative Innovators: You enjoy working across departments to find STEM connections and are excited to design immersive learning experiences that connect classroom concepts to the real world.

Embody a Growth Mindset: You seek out the "teachable moment" in every lab or classroom interaction and are committed to your own continuous professional and personal evolution.

Responsibilities

Instruction: Teach four sections of Middle School science, including laboratories, utilizing a curriculum that emphasizes the scientific method, data analysis, and laboratory safety.

Advising: Serve as an advisor to a group of students, supporting their academic, social, and emotional development during these critical transitional years.

Pedagogical Leadership: Guide students in developing critical thinking skills through observation, hypothesis testing, and the clear communication of scientific findings.

Community Contribution: Fulfill an additional “plus one” requirement as assigned (e.g., coaching, club, or affinity group leadership).

Availability: Provide extra academic support for students during flex, community times, conference period, or designated help sessions.

Engagement: Participate in all required faculty meetings, department collaborations, middle school project week, and professional development activities aimed at Middle School pedagogy.

Qualifications

Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in a scientific field (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science) or Science Education is required; an advanced degree is preferred.

Subject Matter Expertise: A broad understanding of Middle School science standards and the ability to translate complex concepts into age-appropriate, engaging lessons.

Pedagogical Skill: Strong interest in or experience with student-centered, inquiry-based teaching models and a deep understanding of Middle School developmental needs.

Inclusive Excellence: A deep-seated commitment to cultivating a culture of belonging where every student feels seen and valued. This includes the ability to design an inclusive classroom that ensures all students, regardless of background, feel confident and capable in STEM.

Community Mindset: The interpersonal skills necessary to build a…