POSITION SUMMARY
Lakeforest Elementary School is seeking a passionate, innovative STEM Teacher to design and deliver engaging, standards-aligned instruction in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics for students in Pre-K through 6th grade. The STEM Teacher will build a hands-on, inquiry-based learning environment that develops critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills, while embodying and reinforcing the school's PRIDE framework Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
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Design and deliver developmentally appropriate STEM lessons and units aligned to NC Standard Course of Study and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for all assigned grade levels.
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Facilitate hands-on, project-based learning experiences, including engineering design challenges, coding and robotics activities, scientific investigations, and mathematical problem-solving tasks.
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Integrate technology tools and computational thinking into instruction, preparing students for 21st-century learning.
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Collaborate with classroom teachers to reinforce core content (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies) through cross-curricular STEM connections.
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Maintain a safe, organized, and well-stocked STEM lab/makerspace, including materials, equipment, and technology.
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Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including students receiving Special Education services and English Learners.
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Assess student progress using formative and summative measures; use data to drive instructional decisions and interventions.
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Model and reinforce the school's PRIDE expectations (Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, Excellence) in daily instruction and student interactions.
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Plan and support STEM-related school events, such as Science Fairs, STEM Night, robotics competitions, or engineering showcases.
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Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), staff meetings, coaching cycles, and instructional walkthroughs.
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Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding student progress and classroom activities.
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Maintain accurate records, grades, and required documentation in accordance with school and district policy.
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Uphold the dress code and professional expectations outlined in the LFE Staff Handbook, including Business Casual as the daily standard.
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Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or Assistant Principals.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
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Bachelor's Degree in Education, STEM Education, or a related field.
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Valid North Carolina Teaching License (or eligibility for licensure) with an appropriate elementary or STEM endorsement.
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Demonstrated knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics content and instructional best practices.
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Strong classroom management skills and the ability to engage elementary-age students in inquiry-based learning.
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Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
Preferred:
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Experience teaching STEM, science, or a related subject at the elementary level.
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Experience with coding platforms, robotics kits, or educational technology (e.g., Scratch, Sphero, LEGO Education, Ozobots).
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Familiarity with project-based learning (PBL) and engineering design process frameworks.
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Experience with AVID/WICOR strategies or vertical articulation of STEM content.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
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Ability to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate STEM instruction across multiple grade levels.
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Strong understanding of child development and elementary instructional strategies.
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Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families.
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Commitment to fostering a growth mindset and a culture of perseverance and excellence in students.
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Flexibility and creativity in adapting instruction to available resources and diverse learner needs.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout a classroom or lab setting for extended periods; ability to lift and move instructional materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.; ability to supervise students during indoor and outdoor activities.
