Sabbatical Replacement: Chemistry Teacher

SABBATICAL REPLACEMENT: HIGH SCHOOL CHEMISTRY TEACHER
Commonwealth School, an independent day school that occupies two brownstones in Boston’s Back Bay, is known for its rigorous academics, low (5:1) student-teacher ratio, and strong program in the arts. In the warmth of a small yet richly varied community of engaged students and passionate teachers, talents and curiosity generate excitement, laughter, and respect among students, faculty, and staff. We work closely and collaboratively with each other in our cozy space, and we make extensive use of Boston’s many resources.

Our mission is to educate young people from diverse backgrounds to become knowledgeable, thoughtful, and creative adults, capable of careful analysis, fruitful cooperation, and responsible leadership. In keeping with our mission, our teachers challenge and support students as they develop the skills that will encourage their lifelong love of learning.

Our teachers design curriculum, reflect on their practice, create partnerships within their departments, and support student learning both in the classroom and in one-on-one tutorials. Faculty and staff value trust and respect, shared stewardship, autonomy, accountability, creativity, and enjoyment. Detailed information about the school is available on our website.

Position Description
We seek a full-time Chemistry Teacher as a Sabbatical Replacement for Grade 10 for the 2023–2024 academic year.

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Teach four classes (40-45 students total) as a member of the science department.

All students are required to take a year of chemistry after a year of biology. First-year chemistry is taught at both a regular and advanced level. The courses share the same general content and structure, but Chemistry 1 Advanced moves at a faster pace and requires more challenging mathematics.

• Manage Commonwealth's chemistry lab, which has a well-supplied stock room, as well as equipment adequate for a full suite of introductory and AP Chemistry lab experiments.
• Maintain the safe operation of the laboratory space; monitor, exemplify, and teach safe laboratory practices to students; and inventory, safely store, and dispose of chemical waste generated during the course of the year.
• Assume one or more administrative roles, such as advising a student club.
• Fulfill duties beyond the classroom that are shared among the faculty and staff. This might include welcoming prospective students at admissions events, chaperoning dances, or helping make our beloved twice-yearly all-school trips a fun-filled success.

The annual (ten-month school year) salary for this position is based on relevant experience (sample ranges: $60,000–$73,000 for 1–9 years of experience), $74,000–$90,000
(10–19 years of experience), $91,000–$101,000 (20+ years of experience). A generous benefits package includes health and dental insurance.

We offer personalized and sustained onboarding, including close work with a peer mentor and regular meetings with the Assistant Head of School and the Dean of Faculty Hiring and Support.

Qualifications
Firmly committed to establishing culturally responsive classrooms, we seek teachers who think independently and love learning, especially alongside high school students of all genders.

The ideal candidate will not only possess a deep knowledge of chemistry but will also find joy in fostering students’ understanding of the subject. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or the equivalent is required; a higher degree is preferred. Teacher certification is not required.

Ideal candidates will have demonstrated commitment to supporting equity and inclusion in a diverse community. They will have some teaching experience, as well as a keen interest in collaborating with colleagues while mentoring young people.

Interested candidates should submit the following materials by February 15, 2024, to Dean of
Faculty Hiring and Support Mara Dale (mdale@commschool.org):

• A cover letter that describes their experience, teaching philosophy, and commitment to fostering inclusive classrooms and equitable outcomes for all students
• A résumé or CV
• The names of three references and their contact information

Commonwealth School is an equal opportunity employer. It does not discriminate against any individual based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, veteran status, military service, application for military service, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $101,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Grade school specialties:

• 10th grade
• 11th grade
• 12th grade
• 9th grade

Physical setting:

• Private school

Ability to Relocate:

• Boston, MA 02116: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person