High School Science Teacher

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high‑performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K‑12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. We operate in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark and Rochester and are committed to closing the college completion gap. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership.

Uncommon high‑school science teachers work collaboratively across the network to prepare all students with the tools and knowledge to critically engage in the field of science and develop them into self‑directed learners. Inquiry‑based learning, a robust focus on student discourse, and science practices form the core of all courses. Teachers employ a variety of instructional strategies to develop a passion for scientific questioning and analysis.

Our teachers become subject‑matter experts and inspire high‑school students to excel in any STEM discipline.

• Teach a curriculum that includes, but is not limited to, biology, chemistry, physics and environmental sciences, preparing students for AP and collegiate coursework.
• Develop students’ practice skills in questioning, modeling, constructing explanations, data analysis, argumentation and planning and conducting interactive labs.
• Create an environment where students feel confident using their voices to engage in scientific discourse.
• Facilitate student‑led discourse, during which students use evidence to make sophisticated claims and synthesize and critique arguments.
• Facilitate student‑led inquiry of various scientific topics and engage students in lab and project‑based performance tasks.
• Collaborate with the science department to set academic and engagement goals for students.

• Meet weekly with the principal and/or instructional coach to analyze and respond to trends in student work samples and assessments.
• Learn and implement strategies to differentiate instruction for all learners in the classroom.

• Build positive relationships with students to ensure they feel seen, loved and heard.
• Partner with families to ensure appropriate resources are available to support their children's learning needs.
• Engage in practice‑based professional development, mentorship and coaching sessions.
• Participate in weekly, school‑wide meetings to cultivate community, model core values and encourage student achievement.
• Partner with the grade‑level team to develop academic goals and instructional strategies.

• Demonstrated commitment to supporting students’ social‑emotional and academic development.
• Enthusiasm for collaborating with internal and external partners in the best interest of students.
• Self‑directed learner who solicits and implements feedback to improve outcomes and achieve objectives.
• Required Experience:
  • Demonstrated interest in impacting K‑12 students in urban schools and communities (1–2 years experience preferred).
  • Academic expertise in science, technology, engineering, mathematics or related fields.
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Teacher certification is not required at Uncommon in New Jersey, but candidates must meet NJ state certification eligibility requirements. All instructional staff are required to become certified in the state of New Jersey within a reasonable period after beginning employment.

Salary range for this role is $60,000–$85,000, depending on experience, certifications and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full‑time teaching experience will likely receive the starting salary of $60,000.

• Generous paid time off, including sick leave, paid holidays and 10 weeks of paid breaks (spring, winter and summer).
• Extensive, best‑in‑class training and development.
• Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance plans; pre‑tax flex spending (FSA, DCFSA) and HSA.
• Financial planning:
  New Jersey pension program.
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.).
• Mental health and counseling support plus wellness benefits.

Uncommon Schools is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions.

If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment.