Middle School Science Teacher (Grades 5 & 6)

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5th & 6th Grade Science Teacher

Polaris Charter Academy – Chicago, IL

About Polaris

Polaris Charter Academy is a K–8 EL Education school in Chicago’s West Humboldt Park neighborhood. Rooted in our Five Points of Polaris—Integrity, Compassion, Explorer, Critical Thinker, and Active Citizen—we empower students to become lifelong learners and engaged citizens who improve their communities.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and reflective 5th & 6th Grade Science Teacher to join our Crew. The ideal candidate is passionate about teaching science, committed to student-centered learning, and eager to bring the Amplify Science curriculum to life. This teacher will inspire curiosity, foster inquiry-based learning, and support students in making meaningful connections between science and their world.

Key Responsibilities

Deliver High-Quality Science Instruction

  • Plan and teach engaging daily lessons using the Amplify Science curriculum.
  • Integrate hands-on investigations, interactive digital tools, and literacy-rich practices.
  • Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.

Promote Inquiry & Critical Thinking

  • Guide students to ask questions, investigate problems, and apply scientific reasoning.
  • Connect science learning to real-world issues and local community experiences.

Foster a Culture of Crew & Belonging

  • Establish a safe, inclusive, and joyful classroom environment aligned to Polaris’ values.
  • Build strong relationships with students and families that support learning and growth.
  • Incorporate Crew structures and reflective practices that nurture character development.

Collaborate & Grow as a Professional

  • Partner with grade-level teammates to design interdisciplinary connections.
  • Use student data and Amplify’s embedded assessments to inform instruction.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development, coaching, and team planning.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Science, or related field (required).
  • Illinois teaching certification or eligibility (preferred).
  • Experience with Amplify Science or inquiry-based, NGSS-aligned curriculum (preferred).
  • Strong belief in the capacity of all students to learn at high levels.
  • Commitment to Polaris’ mission, EL Education practices, and the Five Points of Polaris.

Why Join Polaris?

  • A mission-driven community of educators committed to justice, equity, and deeper learning.
  • Ongoing professional growth in EL Education and Amplify Science.
  • Opportunities to collaborate with colleagues, lead expeditions, and inspire student action.
  • A supportive and vibrant Crew culture where adults and students learn and grow together.

PCA seeks to recruit persons of diverse backgrounds. PCA is inclusive of people regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, marital status, age, physical abilities, political affiliation, religious beliefs or any other non-merit fact, so that all employees feel included, equally valued and supported.

Interested candidates should submit the following to Francesca Peck, School Principal:

  • Resume
  • References (3 professional)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Education:

  • Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

  • Teaching: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Teaching Certification (Required)
  • Middle School Science Endorsement (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

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