Science Lab Co-Teacher in Rochester, New York at Exploration Elementary Charter School for Science & Tech

Job Title: Elementary Science Lab Teacher
Organization: Exploration Elementary Charter School for Science and Technology
Reports To: Director of Academics
Duration: 10-Month Position

Position Summary
The Elementary Science Lab Teacher is responsible for designing and facilitating engaging, inquiry-based lab experiences that foster scientific curiosity and critical thinking in students. Working in alignment with Exploration’s mission to promote STEM education, this teacher builds a rigorous hands-on science program that supports state standards, encourages exploration of scientific phenomena, and provides students with opportunities to think and act like scientists. The Science Lab Teacher collaborates with classroom educators to extend core content through lab-based investigations and supports interdisciplinary, project-based learning.

Essential Job Responsibilities
● Displays a desire for raising student achievement through scientific exploration and inquiry
● Develops and implements hands-on science lessons aligned with New York State Science Learning Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
● Creates developmentally appropriate experiments and investigations that encourage questioning, hypothesizing, data collection, and analysis
● Designs lab experiences that connect to grade-level curriculum and reinforce science, math, technology, and engineering concepts
● Writes and submits detailed weekly lesson plans that reflect instructional goals, differentiation strategies, and assessment opportunities
● Differentiates instruction to ensure all learners, including those with diverse needs, are appropriately supported and challenged
● Promotes a scientific mindset through the use of the scientific method, engineering design process, and real-world problem-solving
● Ensures students understand the relevance of science in everyday life and the broader world
● Uses a variety of assessment tools, including lab reports, performance tasks, and student reflections, to measure learning
● Encourages scientific communication through student discussions, presentations, and written observations
● Provides feedback that supports concept mastery and scientific thinking
● Maintains a well-organized, safe, and inclusive science lab environment with appropriate safety procedures and expectations
● Teaches students proper care and use of lab equipment, materials, and scientific tools
● Collaborates with classroom teachers to co-plan or extend science units through lab experiences
● Participates in team meetings to align instruction, analyze student data, and plan collaboratively
● Attends weekly PLC (Professional Learning Community) meetings to engage in professional dialogue, share instructional practices, and support school-wide improvement goals
● Promotes interdisciplinary connections with STEM, literacy, and the arts through thematic, inquiry-driven investigations
● Uses technology tools such as microscopes, sensors, digital simulations, and data collection platforms to enhance learning
● Reflects on student data to adjust lessons and instructional strategies for continuous improvement
● Participates in school-wide STEM initiatives, curriculum planning, and family engagement events (e.g., Science Fair, Family STEM Nights)
● Communicates proactively and respectfully with families regarding student progress and classroom learning
● Uses Google Workspace for planning, calendaring, email communication, and documenting student work

Requirements: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
● Strong knowledge of elementary science standards, inquiry-based instruction, and lab safety practices
● Familiarity with NGSS-aligned instruction and the integration of the engineering design process
● Knowledge of CRSE (Culturally Responsive and Sustaining Education) and ability to engage diverse learners
● Ability to manage a hands-on classroom environment with tools, materials, and experiments
● Competency in using digital tools, simulations, and probes to support scientific inquiry
● Ability to design cross-curricular lessons connecting science to math, literacy, and technology
● Effective classroom management and clear communication of expectations
● Strong collaboration skills and willingness to co-plan with classroom teachers
● Capacity for self-reflection, professional growth, and instructional improvement

Qualifications Profile
● Fingerprint clearance from NYS Department of Education
● Ability to work flexible hours for school events, science fairs, or family nights
● Uses standard lab and classroom technology and instructional tools

Education
● Bachelor’s Degree in STEM Education, Engineering, Elementary Education, or related field
● Master’s Degree in Education, Technology, or STEM-related field preferred

Certification
● Valid New York State Teaching Certificate required (e.g., Childhood Education, Technology Education, Library Media, or other applicable area)

Experience
● Prior experience teaching elementary students in STEM, technology, or hands-on learning environments
● Experience designing and implementing interdisciplinary, project-based units
● Familiarity with makerspace tools and design software
● Experience working with diverse student populations and using CRSE practices

Additional Details
The hiring process for this position will require a fingerprinted background check through the New York State TEACH System. Any written or verbal offer is contingent upon satisfactory results, as determined by NYSED and the HR/Director of Operations. Exploration Elementary Charter School does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, veteran status, or disability. The school promotes diversity and provides equal opportunity for all qualified applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities as required by law.