Position Overview The Grade 8 Math Teacher is responsible for creating a supportive, high-energy, and academically rigorous learning environment. The focus is on guiding students through critical algebraic, geometric, and statistical concepts while preparing them emotionally and academically for the transition to high school mathematics. Key Roles & Responsibilities 1. Instructional Delivery & Curriculum Design Standards-Based Lesson Planning: Develop and implement engaging lesson plans aligned with state or national standards (e.g., Common Core, CBSE, or local curricula). Key topics typically include: Linear equations and systems of linear equations Functions (defining, evaluating, and comparing them) The Pythagorean Theorem and geometric transformations Irrational numbers, exponents, and scientific notation Differentiated Instruction: Adapt teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of learners, providing scaffolded support for struggling students and extension activities for advanced learners. Real-World Application: Bridge abstract mathematical concepts with real-world scenarios to answer the age-old student question: "When am I ever going to use this?" 2. Student Assessment & Data Analysis Formative & Summative Grading: Design, administer, and grade quizzes, tests, projects, and daily homework to accurately measure student progress. Data-Driven Instruction: Analyze assessment data to identify learning gaps and adjust whole-class instruction or small-group interventions accordingly. Constructive Feedback: Provide timely, specific, and actionable feedback to students on their problem-solving processes, not just their final answers. 3. Classroom Management & Environment Culture of Growth Mindset: Cultivate a classroom culture where mistakes are viewed as valuable learning opportunities, helping to reduce "math anxiety." Behavior Management: Establish clear classroom rules, routines, and expectations that promote respect, collaboration, and academic focus. Organization: Maintain a structured digital or physical learning space, managing resources, calculators, and instructional technology effectively. 4. Communication & Collaboration Parent-Teacher Partnership: Maintain open lines of communication with parents/guardians regarding student progress, behavior, and achievements through emails, phone calls, and conferences. Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): Collaborate regularly with fellow middle school teachers, vertical math teams (Grade 7 and High School Algebra teachers), and special education staff to ensure alignment and student success. High School Readiness Counseling: Coordinate with school counselors to recommend appropriate 9th-grade math placements (e.g., Algebra I, Honors Algebra, or Geometry) based on student performance. 5. Professional Responsibilities Continuous Learning: Participate in professional development opportunities, staying up-to-date on modern math pedagogy and educational technology (e.g., Desmos, GeoGebra). School Community Involvement: Attend staff meetings, school events, and potentially sponsor extracurricular math clubs or competitions (like Mathcounts). Required Qualifications & Skills Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Secondary Education, or a related field. Certification: Valid state teaching credential/license in Middle School Math or Secondary Mathematics. Soft Skills: Exceptional patience, strong communication skills, a sense of humor, and a deep understanding of adolescent development (specifically the unique social-emotional needs of 13-to-14-year-olds).
The Hawaii State Department of Education is committed to hiring highly qualified teachers in every classroom. With the exception of designated Career and Technology Education (CTE) positions, the minimum qualification to apply for a teacher, librarian or counselor position is a Bachelor's Degree.
If you are hired without completing a Teacher's Education Program, you have a maximum of 3 years to obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license. You must enroll in a Program to continue employment with the Department. Within each year of employment, you must satisfactorily demonstrate active pursuit towards meeting Hawaii licensing requirements, as set forth by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB). It is your responsibility to ensure the program you have enrolled is aligned with the teaching line you are hired in.
Upon hire you will need to have a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit. You may apply for your Hawaii teaching license on the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board Website (https://hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org/).
Please visit www.teachinhawaii.org to review the eligibility requirements for all bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement. To obtain a Hawaii Teaching License, which is required to receive any salary differentials, please apply with the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board at www.hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org.
For more information about this school, please visit their website at: https://www.molokaimiddle.org/
