Job Information
New Directions Youth and Family Services Teacher - Science in Lockport, New York
Job Title: Teacher – Science
Department: HGLCS
Position Summary
The Teacher – High School Science directs the academic, social, and emotional growth of students so that each student progresses toward the goals and objectives outlined in their Individual Education Plan (IEP) and Service Plan. This position is responsible for creating a supportive, engaging learning environment while providing individualized instruction in science and related areas tailored to each student’s needs.
Department
New Directions Youth & Family Services’ HGLCS program provides individualized education and support to students with diverse needs, helping them achieve growth in both academic and personal development.
Agency
New Directions Youth & Family Services is an equal opportunity employer committed to championing the principles of anti-racism, justice, and equity. We welcome prospective employees from diverse cultures and backgrounds, for all positions, who will uphold our values and contribute to our mission. We aim to have a leadership and workforce that is reflective of the communities we work in partnership with.
Benefits
New Directions offers a strong benefits package to support employees:
Medical, dental, and life insurance
401k with up to 3% agency match
119 hours of paid time off in the first year, plus holidays and school breaks
Consistent Monday – Friday schedule
Opportunities for professional development and advancement
Join a company where over 30% of staff have been with us for 10+ years
Compensation
$24.90 – $28.45 per hour to start, with guaranteed raises.
Hours/Schedule
Full-Time, Monday – Friday.
Professional Development Opportunities
Teachers receive ongoing professional development through in-service trainings, supervision, and opportunities to strengthen expertise in the field. Staff maintain certifications including Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) and First Aid/CPR, provided by the agency.
Position Specific Duties/Responsibilities
Direct student behavior and activities to support academic and social-emotional goals
Create a learning climate that fosters intellectual, social, and emotional development
Maintain accurate records of student progress and ensure credit for work accomplished
Provide instruction to individuals or groups of students on core science curriculum and special projects
Develop instructional plans and materials to maximize student learning potential
Communicate with parents/guardians bi-weekly regarding student progress
Attend CSE, SPR, team, and content meetings to support collaboration and planning
Supervise assigned Teacher’s Aide and provide guidance for student support
Support the campus-wide PBIS program and participate in school activities as needed
Supervise students during transitions, hallways, and lunchroom when necessary
Prepare academic and sociological reports for CSE meetings
Maintain valid NYS certification and agency-required trainings
Update daily records, including cottage notes and progress notes
Attend mandatory in-service training, supervision sessions, and additional professional development opportunities
Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to create engaging science instruction for students with diverse learning needs
Strong classroom management and communication skills
Knowledge of curriculum development and individualized instruction planning
Ability to work effectively with youth, families, and staff from diverse backgrounds
Ability to manage challenging student behaviors with flexibility and adaptability
Proficient in documentation, record-keeping, and communication across multiple mediums
Qualifications
Required: Provisional or Permanent teaching certification in an academic core area and/or in special education
Preferred: Master’s Degree in a core academic area; Initial or Professional certification in an academic core area and/or in special education
Experience with “at-risk,” emotionally disturbed, or learning-disabled students preferred but not required
Must comply with NYSED requirements under the No Child Left Behind Act for teaching certification
Valid driver’s license, adequate auto insurance, and compliance with agency driving policy
Ability to pass an annual physical per agency health policy (Category 3 classification)
Compliance with agency safety standards and healthy work environment practices
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We want to emphasize that the preferred qualifications are not required and that we are committed to helping our future colleagues develop these preferred skills. We strongly encourage those who are passionate about fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable human service organization to apply.