Upper School Computer Science & Robotics Teacher

General Summary:

Under the general supervision of the Upper School Head, the Upper School Computer Science and Robotics Teacher is responsible for instructing a full load of courses (4 courses) in Robotics and Computer Science, as well as coaching the US after school robotics team. This position is responsible for building on the academic foundations established at earlier grade levels, developing lesson plans, advising students, and creating independent learning exercises, material, curricula and methods that keep in mind the needs of the individual child and whole-group dynamic. The incumbent should be comfortable teaching in classrooms with mixed levels of coding and robotics experience, with students ranging from ninth through twelfth grades.

Essential Duties:

• Teaches computer science classes as assigned, providing effective and professional classroom instruction, assessment and management;
• Designs and implements curriculum and instruction consistent with the mission, values and standards established by the School;
• Teaches sections of Introductory Coding, Advanced Coding, and Robotics. Four sections in total, for students grades 9 through 12.
• Coaches the afterschool Robotics Club for the Upper School.
• Offers introductory computer science to the 9th grade, develops and offers electives in more advanced aspects of computer science instruction for grades 10 through 12; Curriculum development explores programming, app design, robotics, web design, digital design, etc.;
• Assesses students to evaluate their abilities, strengths and weaknesses;
• Grades students' assignments and exams, building students' confidence, independence and accountability;
• Collaborates with colleagues on curriculum development and on enhancing instructional practices and strategies;
• Establishes effective communications and relationships with students and parents;
• Exhibits a growth mindset about teaching practices and works toward professional goals and development;
• Maintains School policies, protocols and expectations;
• Develops and maintains professional, collaborative and collegial relationships with faculty and staff, as well as with community partners to the benefit of students and classes;
• Participates in required non-classroom activities including parent/student conferences, retreats, faculty meetings, field trips and special activities and performance events;
• Provides effective supervision of students to promote a safe and healthy environment and School experience; Supervises students outside of the classroom - for example, during lunch or study hall;
• Completes required reports and tasks timely and professionally;
• Serves as academic technology support to other faculty as needed.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science teaching or related field and a minimum of three years of teaching experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience required. Master's degree or higher preferred.

Special Requirements:

Must be able to complete a background check.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of Python and Java coding languages.
• Familiarity with Robotics competitions (FTC preferred)
• Ability to innovate in the classroom and stay abreast of computer science trends;
• Ability to create and build curriculum appropriate for various age groups and interests;
• Ability and willingness to participate fully in a dynamic day school located in New York City;
• Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing;
• Ability to remain responsible at all times for the supervision of students during classes and generally at all times when on campus or off campus;
• Ability to learn new technology and systems commensurate with curricular requirements;
• Ability to demonstrate creativity and flexibility in pedagogy;
• Demonstrated ability to act as a role model of professionalism;
• Ability to model honesty, accountability, understanding, tolerance, respect, love and kindness for the students;
• Ability to multitask, keep calm under pressure and treat everyone with respect;
• Displays curiosity, a positive attitude, flexibility and a good sense of humor;
• Ability to follow all policies and procedures of the School as written in the employee and parent handbooks.