Lead Science Teacher

What You'll Do

Science Instruction & Leadership

• Create engaging, age-appropriate science lessons that cater to children aged 2 years old and up, focusing on observational skills, prediction, comparison, measurement, and result analysis.
• Develop and implement science-themed read-alouds, discussions, and simple documentation activities to reinforce vocabulary, comprehension, and early writing skills.
• Design sensory-rich, kid-friendly experiments to introduce complex scientific concepts, such as cause and effect, life cycles, weather, basic physics, and simple chemistry.
• Maintain a safe and nurturing learning environment that meets VDOE licensing requirements, including daily checks of science activity areas and materials.
• Supervise children at all times, ensuring auditory and visual contact, and implement respectful discipline strategies to promote cooperation and safe participation.
• Observe and document children's growth in scientific inquiry skills, maintain learning records, and share progress with parents/guardians.
• Host family-friendly science events, provide support to diverse family structures, and communicate effectively with parents and local stakeholders.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Science, or a related STE(AI)M™ field is highly preferred. Minimum of a CDA (Child Development Associate) or Associate’s degree with a focus on STEM education required.
• Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience teaching in a licensed childcare center or elementary school setting. Documented experience in STEM/STEAM instruction or robotics is a significant plus.
• Certifications: Must possess or be willing to obtain:
• Virginia Preservice Training for Child Care Staff.
• CPR/First Aid Certification (Pediatric and Adult).
• MAT (Medication Administration Training) certification (preferred).
• Background Clearance: Must successfully pass a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting (VDOE/Central Registry) and a TB screening.
• Technical & Core Competencies: Ability to simplify complex concepts into kid-friendly explanations and experiments using safe, everyday materials.
• Instructional Agility: The ability to differentiate instruction from early learners (age 2+) to school-age children while keeping lessons engaging and developmentally appropriate.
• Mission Alignment: A deep resonance with the CORE Foundation’s commitment to community impact, equity, and the pursuit of excellence.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to sit on the floor, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to move quickly to respond to emergencies or active children.

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