Middle School Science Teacher

About Riverside Leadership Academy

Riverside Leadership Academy is a project-based learning (PBL) charter school committed to developing scholars who think critically, collaborate effectively, and lead with integrity. Our instructional model emphasizes hands-on learning, real-world application, and strong social-emotional learning (SEL) practices embedded into every classroom.

We believe that meaningful relationships, scholar voice, and authentic experiences lay the foundation for academic excellence and personal growth.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic, student-centered Middle School Science Teacher who is passionate about inquiry-based learning, interdisciplinary projects, and integrating SEL competencies into daily instruction. The ideal candidate will foster curiosity, encourage scientific thinking, and support scholars in building both academic mastery and essential life skills.

Key Responsibilities

Instruction & Curriculum

• Design and deliver engaging, standards-aligned science instruction for grades 6 and 7.
• Develop inquiry-based and hands-on learning experiences rooted in PBL principles.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary projects that connect science to real-world issues and other subject areas.
• Use diverse instructional strategies to support all learners, including differentiation and scaffolding.
• Incorporate technology, lab experiences, fieldwork, and authentic performance tasks.

Social-Emotional Learning

• Embed SEL practices throughout instruction, including modeling emotional regulation, relationship-building, and responsible decision-making.
• Create a classroom culture that is safe, inclusive, and supportive of student identity and voice.
• Use restorative practices to build community and address conflict.

Assessment & Feedback

• Utilize formative and summative assessments to guide instructional decisions.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback that helps scholars reflect, revise, and grow.
• Maintain accurate records of scholar progress and communicate regularly with families.

Collaboration & Professionalism

• Collaborate with colleagues to design interdisciplinary PBL units.
• Participate in professional learning communities focused on PBL, SEL, and instructional best practices.
• Communicate effectively with families, administrators, and support staff.
• Demonstrate professionalism, growth mindset, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Science Education, or a related scientific field.
• Valid teaching license or eligibility for NC licensure.
• Experience or demonstrated interest in project-based learning and inquiry-based instruction.

Preferred

• Previous middle school teaching experience.
• Familiarity with Responsive Classroom or comparable SEL frameworks.
• Experience working in diverse school environments.
• Strong classroom management grounded in relationships and restorative practices.

What We Offer

• A supportive, mission-driven school community.
• Professional development in PBL, SEL, and leadership-focused instruction.
• Opportunities for teacher leadership, collaboration, and creativity.
• A culture that values innovation, scholar voice, and whole-child development.

Pay: $41,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person