Upper School Computer Science Teacher (Part-Time, Long-Term Substitute)

Position Type:
Upper School Teaching/Computer Science Teacher
Date Posted:
12/27/2023
Location:
Winchester Thurston - City Campus
Closing Date:
05/20/2022The Upper School Computer Science Teacher provides instruction and supervision for students in grades 9 - 12. This is a part-time (.40 FTE) long-term substitute position. The individual in this position must understand and respond to the unique needs of students, fostering in each student a sense of confidence, ethics, responsibility and respect for others. Faculty are expected to actively engage students through a rigorous curriculum, which includes developmentally appropriate experiential learning programs in connection with the dynamic resources of the region.
The Upper School Computer Science Teacher performs under the general direction of the Head of School and under the daily supervision of the Director of Upper School. The individual in this position will work closely with the Director of Upper School, the Computer Science Department Chair, other department members, other faculty members, students, and parents.
The Upper School Computer Science Teacher is responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

• Teach a total of two introductory sections of Computer Science: CS for Math and Science and Physical Computing (classes meet every other day; see course descriptions below); manage the curriculum, discipline, and classroom community and environment with an emphasis on meeting the needs of all students and ensuring student safety and well-being
• Plan and execute lessons in the context of a year-long departmental curriculum and competencies, in accordance with the school's educational philosophy, and using varied methods of instruction and assessment
• Create and maintain an appropriate and organized classroom environment with an emphasis on the physical and emotional well-being and safety of students
• Partner with other Upper School teachers, as well as Computer Science department members, to work as a collaborative team to review, revise, and coordinate the Upper SchoolComputer Science program
• Communicate with and respond to parents' questions and concerns in an effective and timely manner through a variety of means, including email, telephone, student progress reports, and parent notices
• Complete student assessment reports (e.g., grades reports, interim comments, etc.) in accordance with school guidelines and the deadlines established by the Director of Upper School
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for and engagement in the school's:
  • City as Our Campus initiative, actively seeking meaningful community connections for experiential learning opportunities within and outside the classroom
  • Commitment to equity and inclusion, including but not limited to, curriculum, teaching practice, and professional growth
  • Strategic priorities through designing and implementing learning experiences that are interdisciplinary, student-centered, and/or project-based
• Participate in a mentoring program with an experienced faculty member during the first two years of employment
• Commit to ongoing professional growth and play an active role in the formative development process, which includes, but is not limited to, participating in goal setting, engaging in constant reflection, participation and contribution to collaborative curricular and professional learning groups, and participating in observations with peers and administrators
• Work as a team member with teaching colleagues and administrators by attending all school-wide meetings, department meetings, Upper School faculty meetings, and in-service days, as well as serving on committees as needed
• Participate in the advisory program as a student advisor, as needed
• Assist the admission process by meeting with prospective families, attending admission events, and helping screen prospective candidates for admission
• Serve as an active member of the Upper School by engaging with colleagues, participating in events and activities, and fulfilling additional duties, including but not limited to, taking attendance, managing lunch and recess duties, chaperoning field trips, after-school events or grade-level trips, and other assignments
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
A Bachelor's degree, preferably in Computer Science or a related discipline is required; a Master's degree is preferred. Previous teaching experience in an Upper School setting is preferred. The successful candidate will have experience with and enthusiasm for community-based, project-based and interdisciplinary learning. Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with students, colleagues and parents are required. The successful candidate will have the ability to create an interesting and challenging learning environment for students. A demonstrated ability to meet the needs of a diverse student population and to utilize technology in the classroom are required. The successful candidate will have an educational philosophy that is consistent with that of the school.
Applicants may apply at https://www.applitrack.com/winchesterthurston/onlineapp and will need to submit a cover letter, resume and the names and contact information for 3 professional references.
Winchester Thurston School is an equal opportunity employer. WT is dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse and pluralistic community and strongly encourages applications from people of color, LGBTQ candidates, and women.
Course Descriptions:
Computer Science for Mathematics and Science (Open to all grades, Semester - 2 credits)
While initially used to compute impossible mathematical calculations, computer programming has come a long way since Charles Babbages' analytical engine. In this semester-long course, we will learn problem-solving skills fundamental to computer programming through the lens of a mathematician or scientist. By creating computer programs to explore spatial puzzles, fractals, and science simulations, students will use technology to deepen their understanding of mathematics and science. The programming languages we will use are Python and Processing. The skills learned in this course prepare students for more advanced Computer Science courses and are widely applicable to further pursuits in other disciplines.
Physical Computing (Open to all grades, Semester - 2 credits)
Prerequisite: CS for Art and Humanities, CS for Mathematics and Science, Interactive Storytelling and Video Game Design. Physical Computing introduces students to basic electrical and computer engineering. ECE is a blend of robotics, computer programming, and mechanical engineering, and students may anticipate getting some of each in this project-based course. All engineers are tasked with designing a final product within set constraints. In Physical Computing, student engineers complete various challenges with a variety of supplies including Arduinos, Wi-Fi-enabled microcontrollers, mobile phones, sensors, various mechanical tools, and circuitry. In solving these challenges, students learn to control existing manufactured electronics, elements in the physical world, and sensors on a mobile phone with computers. The skills learned in this course prepare students for Level Two Computer Science courses and are widely applicable to further pursuits in other disciplines.