Middle School Science Educator: Inquiry, Data-Driven

A Middle School Science Teacher is responsible for delivering rigorous, standards-based instruction aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in Science (2019) as established by the Minnesota Department of Education. Instruction is designed to prepare students for success on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) by emphasizing scientific reasoning, application of knowledge, and mastery of grade-level benchmarks. The role centers on three-dimensional learning, integrating science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas.

• Plan and deliver instruction aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in Science (2019), ensuring students are prepared for MCA science assessments
• Design lessons that integrate science and engineering practices such as asking questions, developing and using models, analyzing and interpreting data, and constructing explanations
• Teach disciplinary core ideas in life science, physical science, and earth and space science using grade-level appropriate standards
• Incorporate crosscutting concepts including patterns, cause and effect, systems, and stability and change to deepen student understanding
• Use phenomenon-based and inquiry-driven instruction to engage students in real-world scientific thinking
• Develop and implement hands-on labs, investigations, and engineering design tasks aligned to state standards
• Use formative and summative assessments aligned to MCA expectations to monitor student progress and adjust instruction
• Analyze student data to inform instruction and support student growth toward proficiency
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including multilingual learners and students receiving special education services
• Maintain a safe and structured classroom environment, including enforcing appropriate lab safety procedures

Instructional Expectations

• Emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of scientific knowledge rather than memorization
• Prepare students to interpret data, analyze scientific information, and justify conclusions using evidence, as required by MCA assessments
• Integrate reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning within science instruction and provide opportunities for students to engage in scientific discourse, argumentation, and collaboration
• Ensure instruction reflects culturally responsive practices and connects to students’ lived experiences

Assessment and MCA Alignment

• Design and implement assessments that mirror the rigor and format of MCA science assessments
• Use standards-aligned benchmarks and common assessments to track student progress
• Provide targeted interventions and enrichment based on assessment data
• Support students in developing test-taking strategies and familiarity with MCA item types

Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure vertical and horizontal alignment of science standards and curriculum
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities focused on data analysis, instructional strategies, and student achievement
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and academic goals and engage in ongoing professional development related to Minnesota science standards, MCA alignment, and best instructional practices

• Bachelor’s degree in science, education, or a related field
• Valid Minnesota teaching license in middle school science or appropriate licensure area
• Knowledge of the Minnesota Academic Standards in Science (2019) and MCA assessment expectations
• Strong classroom management and instructional skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching middle school science in a standards-based environment
• Familiarity with MCA assessment design and data analysis
• Experience implementing inquiry-based and phenomenon-driven instruction
• Experience working with diverse student populations and culturally responsive teaching practices
• This position requires a commitment to ensuring all students achieve proficiency in science through standards-aligned instruction, data-driven decision-making, and preparation for success on state assessments.