Director of Science, Social Studies and Innovation

Reports to: Chief Academic Officer

Purpose: The purpose of the Director of Science, Social Studies, and Innovation role is to lead and enhance both the district’s science and social studies programs by fostering dynamic, inquiry-based learning experiences. This revised role not only oversees the Science Innovation Center, Horizons Unlimited, but also reimagines the social studies curriculum, introducing innovative approaches that make the subjects inquiry-based, engaging and impactful. By integrating hands-on learning, experiential activities, and cross-disciplinary initiatives, this position ensures students are prepared with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for academic and real-world success.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

Leadership of Science Innovation Center:

• Oversee the operation and development of Horizons Unlimited, which includes a      planetarium, rainforest, touch aquarium, and small live animals and STEM bus.
• Design and implement innovative science and social studies programs and experiences that utilize the center’s resources to enhance student learning.
• Collaborate with educators to integrate the center's resources into classroom learning, ensuring hands-on, inquiry-based experiences for students.

Curriculum Development for Science and Social Studies:

• Lead the development and implementation of a robust K-12 science curriculum that aligns with state standards and emphasizes inquiry-based learning.
• Develop and support an innovative K-12 social studies curriculum that engages students through inquiry-based approaches, making the content relevant and compelling.
• Ensure that the curriculum reflects current educational best practices, including cross-disciplinary integration between science and social studies.
• Design and implement experiential learning opportunities that bring social studies to life, including community-based projects, historical reenactments and partnerships with possible national, state and local museums and organizations.

Professional Development:

• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers in both science and social studies, focusing on innovative teaching strategies, inquiry-based learning, experiential learning resources and the effective use of Horizons Unlimited.
• Support teachers in developing and implementing projects that encourage experiential experiences, the use of technology and other resources into their science and social studies instruction.

Community and Partnership Engagement:

• Build and maintain partnerships with state and local museums, universities, and other organizations to enhance science and social studies programs.
• Engage with the community to promote Horizons Unlimited and social studies initiatives, fostering a culture of curiosity, civic responsibility and lifelong learning.

Assessment and Evaluation:

• Develop and implement assessment tools to measure the effectiveness of the science and social studies curricula and programs.
• Use data to continuously improve instructional practices and student outcomes in science and social studies.

Budget and Resource Management:

• Manage budgets for Horizons Unlimited and curriculum development projects.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including grants, to support science and social studies initiatives.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Perform various tasks and projects as determined by the Chief Academic Officer or the Superintendent.

Qualifications: 

• Extensive knowledge and experience in both science and social studies curriculum development and instruction.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire creativity in educational programming, with a strong emphasis on innovative and experiential learning methods.
• Demonstrated success in developing inquiry-based and student-centered learning experiences.
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with teachers, administrators, content departments and community partners.
• Familiarity with state and national standards in science and social studies.
• Ability to foster a learning environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Prior experience in a leadership or coaching role within an educational setting is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and lifting as needed to set up exhibits, learning stations, or demonstrations.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to handle small tools, lab equipment, and materials safely.

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: 12 months

PROPOSED SALARY: Central Office Leadership Scale - Director III