STEM Specials Instructor (Part-Time/Internship)
Position Title: STEM Specials Instructor (Part-Time or Paid Internship)
Reports To: School Director
Schedule: Approximately 8–10 hours per week, two afternoons each week during the school year
Position Overview
Polaris Charter School is seeking an enthusiastic, creative, and dependable individual to lead engaging STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) enrichment classes for elementary students. This flexible, part-time position is ideal for a college student pursuing a degree in education, engineering, science, technology, mathematics, or a related field, or for a qualified high school student participating in a career pathway or work-based learning program.
Working alongside experienced educators, the STEM Specials Instructor will inspire curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving through hands-on activities that support Polaris Charter School’s mission of joyful, inquiry-based learning.
Responsibilities
· Plan and facilitate engaging STEM lessons for students in grades K–5.
· Lead hands-on learning experiences using engineering design challenges, coding activities, robotics, makerspace materials, science investigations, and other age-appropriate STEM projects.
· Foster a positive, inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and perseverance.
· Manage classroom routines and student behavior using positive behavior supports.
· Collaborate with classroom teachers and school staff to connect STEM activities with classroom learning when appropriate.
· Prepare, organize, and maintain instructional materials and equipment.
· Ensure student safety during all activities.
· Communicate professionally with supervisors regarding lesson planning, student engagement, and program needs.
· Participate in orientation, training, and occasional staff meetings as requested.
Qualifications
Preferred candidates will possess:
· An interest in education and working with elementary-aged children.
· Coursework or experience in education, STEM, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related field.
· Strong communication and organizational skills.
· Creativity, flexibility, and enthusiasm for hands-on learning.
· The ability to work independently while accepting coaching and feedback.
· Reliability and professionalism.
Preferred
· Experience working with children through tutoring, camps, scouting, coaching, youth programs, or volunteer work.
· Familiarity with coding, robotics, engineering design, makerspaces, or inquiry-based science activities.
Physical Requirements
· Ability to actively supervise elementary students.
· Ability to lift and move instructional materials up to 25 pounds.
· Ability to stand, walk, bend, and participate in active classroom learning.
Internship Opportunities
Polaris Charter School welcomes partnerships with local colleges, universities, career and technical education centers, and high schools. This position may fulfill internship, practicum, field experience, service-learning, or work-based learning requirements depending on program approval.
What You’ll Gain
· Meaningful classroom experience working with experienced educators.
· Opportunities to develop lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional skills.
· Experience facilitating inquiry-based and project-based learning.
· Mentorship and professional feedback.
· A flexible schedule compatible with college coursework.
· The opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, designers, and innovators.
Polaris Charter School is committed to creating a joyful and exciting learning community where every child develops curiosity, confidence, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
Pay: $30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
