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
- 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.
- Facilitate hands-on, project-based learning experiences, including engineering design challenges, coding and robotics activities, scientific investigations, and mathematical problem-solving tasks.
- Integrate technology tools and computational thinking into instruction, preparing students for 21st-century learning.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers to reinforce core content (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies) through cross-curricular STEM connections.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and well-stocked STEM lab/makerspace, including materials, equipment, and technology.
- Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including students receiving Special Education services and English Learners.
- Assess student progress using formative and summative measures; use data to drive instructional decisions and interventions.
- Model and reinforce the school''s PRIDE expectations (Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, Excellence) in daily instruction and student interactions.
- Plan and support STEM-related school events, such as Science Fairs, STEM Night, robotics competitions, or engineering showcases.
- Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), staff meetings, coaching cycles, and instructional walkthroughs.
- Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding student progress and classroom activities.
- Maintain accurate records, grades, and required documentation in accordance with school and district policy.
- Uphold the dress code and professional expectations outlined in the LFE Staff Handbook, including Business Casual as the daily standard.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or Assistant Principals.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
- Bachelor''s Degree in Education, STEM Education, or a related field.
- Valid North Carolina Teaching License (or eligibility for licensure) with an appropriate elementary or STEM endorsement.
- Demonstrated knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics content and instructional best practices.
- Strong classroom management skills and the ability to engage elementary-age students in inquiry-based learning.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
Preferred:
- Experience teaching STEM, science, or a related subject at the elementary level.
- Experience with coding platforms, robotics kits, or educational technology (e.g., Scratch, Sphero, LEGO Education, Ozobots).
- Familiarity with project-based learning (PBL) and engineering design process frameworks.
- Experience with AVID/WICOR strategies or vertical articulation of STEM content.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Ability to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate STEM instruction across multiple grade levels.
- Strong understanding of child development and elementary instructional strategies.
- Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families.
- Commitment to fostering a growth mindset and a culture of perseverance and excellence in students.
- 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.