Orinda Academy is seeking a Science teacher for students in grades 8-12, including students who learn differently. The position includes teaching Biology, Environmental Science, Physical Education, and Health. The position requires work hours on campus Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., some evenings and weekends, as needed, and annual “Educational Adventures” travel. Start date: August 19, 2024

**Who we are**:
Orinda Academy is an intentionally small independent school serving grades 8-12 in the town of Orinda, California, in the East San Francisco Bay Area. The majority of our students have a diagnosed learning difference, and they come to OA - and stay - because our high-support learning environment helps them to get organized, know themselves and their learning profiles better, and take ownership of their education.

We aim to send our graduates out into the world with self confidence, pride, and a good sense of how they are going to make themselves better and make the world a better place.

We are committed to honesty, justice, clarity, and the pursuit of knowledge. We want our students and faculty to understand that the things that make us different as individuals make us stronger as a community.

We know that all students learn differently, and with our inclusive mission as a foundation, we provide pathways to solid core and elective class offerings that fully prepare each graduate for college, or for any career path they choose. Our teachers care, and it shows

**What we would like to see on your resume and hear from your references**:

- You have a bachelor’s degree in Science; master’s degree preferred.
- You recognize the need for differentiation to reach all types of learners.
- You have experience working with students with mild to moderate learning differences, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and know how to teach using a variety of teaching methods and types of assessment.
- You have at least two years of experience as a teacher.
- You have solid and consistent classroom management skills.
- You are a supportive, positive, flexible, and collaborative colleague.
- You enjoy sharing your program with your colleagues and the larger community.
- You have strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- You are a clear, prompt, and proactive communicator both verbally and in writing.
- You work with students and challenge them to develop strengths while addressing areas in which the students need greater understanding.
- You really like working with teenagers; they give you energy.
- You are well versed in the use of technology.
- You have a compassionate, mindful approach to working with each student.
- You are comfortable and skilled speaking and working with parents and guardians, colleagues, students, and student support staff.
- You are trustworthy and discreet with sensitive information about students and families.
- You are prepared to attend and participate in independent school activities such as (but not limited to) Back-to-School Night, conferences, student advisory, all-school retreat, club sponsorship, and open houses.
- You are a lifelong learner.
- You have loads of empathy and patience for students who need lots of reminders and support.
- You have a sense of humor and fun.

**Who you will work with**:

- You will report directly to the Head of School.
- You will occasionally collaborate with other staff for projects and committee work.

**Responsibilities**:

- Actively instruct students, create engaging lesson plans, assign and correct homework, manage students in the classroom, take daily attendance, maintain an accurate grade book, communicate with parents, and help students prepare for standardized testing.
- Serve as a student advisor, monitor study halls, and sponsor clubs and a week-long Educational Adventures program that includes domestic and international travel.
- Create and maintain a climate of trust and positive regard for students.
- Collaborate with colleagues and administration to tailor instruction best suited for our neurodiverse population of students.
- Support and nurture students’ intellectual and social/emotional development.
- Attend weekly staff meetings, Back-to-School Night, Field Trips, Parent Conferences, Open Houses, and school activities.
- Perform other duties as determined by the Head of School.

All faculty and staff employed by Orinda Academy must submit results of a negative TB test and obtain fingerprints for a Live Scan criminal background check by the California Department of Justice.

Salary range: Full time $70,000-$75,000 - salary commensurate with experience and education level. Health, dental, 403b benefits offered.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan

Grade school specialties:

- 10th grade
- 8th grade
- 9th grade
- High school
- Physical Education
- Science

Physical setting:

- Priv