Elective - Nature Studies and MakerLab Teacher (Wednesdays)
Posted
Job Title: Elective Teacher - Nature Studies and MakerLab
Department: Academic
Reports to: School Principal
Time Status: Part-time, 10 months, Wednesdays
Pay Status: Salary
FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
EEOC: Professional
Overview:
This Elective Teacher plays an important role in helping students in grades 3–8 develop a deeper understanding of God as Creator while building foundational skills in science, inquiry, creativity, and problem-solving through hands-on, outdoor, and project-based learning experiences. The Nature Studies & MakerLab Teacher is responsible for designing and delivering engaging, age-appropriate instruction that nurtures curiosity, encourages exploration of the natural world, and develops students’ ability to observe, question, create, and design. This role integrates biblical principles throughout instruction and fosters a classroom environment that inspires wonder, stewardship of creation, and a lifelong love of learning.
Essential Functions, Tasks, and Responsibilities:
Department: Academic
Reports to: School Principal
Time Status: Part-time, 10 months, Wednesdays
Pay Status: Salary
FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
EEOC: Professional
Overview:
This Elective Teacher plays an important role in helping students in grades 3–8 develop a deeper understanding of God as Creator while building foundational skills in science, inquiry, creativity, and problem-solving through hands-on, outdoor, and project-based learning experiences. The Nature Studies & MakerLab Teacher is responsible for designing and delivering engaging, age-appropriate instruction that nurtures curiosity, encourages exploration of the natural world, and develops students’ ability to observe, question, create, and design. This role integrates biblical principles throughout instruction and fosters a classroom environment that inspires wonder, stewardship of creation, and a lifelong love of learning.
Essential Functions, Tasks, and Responsibilities:
- Implement age-appropriate curriculum for Nature courses and MakerLab that promote student growth in scientific inquiry, creativity, problem-solving, and stewardship of creation.
- Facilitate outdoor learning experiences, including nature walks and environmental exploration, to deepen students’ understanding of the natural world.
- Teach foundational concepts in science, nature studies, design thinking, and introductory engineering through hands-on and experiential learning activities.
- Design and facilitate MakerLab projects that integrate science, nature, math, and technology in creative and developmentally appropriate ways.
- Encourage students to observe, question, explore, and document their learning through nature journaling, research activities, and reflective writing.
- Guide students in developing creativity, imagination, and safe, intentional use of tools and materials during hands-on projects.
- Develop detailed lesson plans that align with curriculum objectives and support a variety of learning styles and abilities.
- Assess student learning through projects, participation, observations, journals, presentations, and other authentic assessment methods, and record timely student grades in the student information database.
- Provide constructive feedback and individualized support to help students grow in curiosity, understanding, and confidence in scientific thinking.
- Incorporate principles of faith and biblical integration into instruction, emphasizing God as Creator, stewardship of the earth, wonder, and responsible care for the natural world.
- Foster open communication with parents, keeping them informed about students’ progress, and actively engage in parent-teacher conferences when necessary.
- Create a classroom atmosphere that promotes engagement, respect, collaboration, exploration, and a love of learning while ensuring the emotional and physical well-being of students.
- Provide supervision of students during indoor or outdoor recess and/or lunch activities, ensuring the students’ safety and adherence to school rules.
- Assist in the orderly dismissal of students, as needed, maintaining a secure and organized transition from the classroom to car line.
- Ensure adherence to school policies and maintain accurate records of student attendance, assessments, and other relevant data.
- Participate in faculty meetings, professional development opportunities, and school events as requested.
- Perform any other duties or responsibilities as assigned by school administrators.
- NOTE: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.
Required Qualifications:
- “Born again” Christian with an active, growing relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
- Faithfully attends and supports a local church whose beliefs are in agreement with the CHESS Statement of Beliefs.
- Agree with, support, and abide by the CHESS Christian School Statement of Beliefs, Lifestyle Statement, and Educational Philosophy.
- 4-year degree from a college, university, or Bible school.
- Able to pass a background check.
- Demonstrated ability to lead hands-on, experiential, and inquiry-based learning activities for students.
- Ability to work independently in the classroom to address academic and administrative responsibilities while adhering to the school’s policies and teaching standards.
- Able to supervise students during outdoor learning experiences in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and uneven terrain.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Dedication to fostering a positive, Christ-centered learning environment focused on curiosity and stewardship of creation.
- Ongoing commitment to professional development and staying informed about educational trends.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous teaching experience in a classroom setting.
- Experience in science education, environmental education, STEM, maker spaces, or project-based learning environments.
- An understanding of effective classroom management strategies and techniques that foster an environment of discipleship.
- Experience facilitating outdoor education, hands-on labs, or interdisciplinary learning experiences.