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