STEM Instructor and Robotics Sponsor

About Hickory Day School Hickory Day School is the only non-sectarian, independent school in Catawba County, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Guided by its mission to instill a love of learning, the school emphasizes academic excellence, critical thinking, and global perspective within a nurturing, collaborative environment. As an accredited institution through the Southern Association of Independent Schools, Hickory Day School delivers a rigorous, inquiry-based curriculum. The school is proud to be one of a select group of North Carolina schools authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), fostering curiosity, creativity, and a strong sense of global citizenship. Faculty and staff work collaboratively to provide differentiated, integrated learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom to include visual arts, wellness, Spanish, technology, and performing arts. Hickory Day School values teamwork, integrity, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of students. Position Summary Hickory Day School seeks an innovative, collaborative, and student-centered STEM Instructor to inspire curiosity and problem-solving through hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences. This position will focus specifically on applied STEM education, engineering design, robotics, coding, maker-centered learning, and project-based instruction. The STEM Instructor will teach age-appropriate STEM courses and enrichment experiences for students in kindergarten through eighth grade while also leading the school's robotics and Sumobot competition programs. The ideal candidate is creative, organized, enthusiastic about emerging technologies and engineering concepts, and passionate about fostering critical thinking and innovation in students. Key Responsibilities Design and deliver engaging STEM instruction for students in kindergarten through eighth grade Develop hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences that integrate science, engineering, design thinking, coding, robotics, digital media productions, and problem-solving Foster creativity, collaboration, innovation, and critical-thinking skills through project- based learning Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs and abilities of learners Collaborate with classroom teachers and specialists to support interdisciplinary learning opportunities Maintain and organize STEM lab materials, tools, equipment, and supplies Sponsor and lead the school's robotics and Sumobot competition teams, including practices, preparation, and competition participation Support the mission and philosophy of the International Baccalaureate program and inquiry-based learning model Communicate effectively with students, parents, faculty, and administration Participate fully in faculty meetings, professional development, school events, and other school responsibilities Provide appropriate student supervision throughout the school day and during designated activities Perform other duties as assigned Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field (or equivalent experience) Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues Demonstrated ability to work with primary-age children in a caring, compassionate, and supportive manner Willingness to support the philosophy and practices of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and participate in required training Commitment to ongoing professional development Professional demeanor and conduct at all times Ability to fulfill core job responsibilities, including lesson planning, student assessment, communication, supervision, and participation in school events and meetings Availability to meet standard workday expectations (7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.), along with additional duties as assigned Preferred 3+ years of experience in a school or classroom setting Current North Carolina (or equivalent) teaching licensure Experience with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) Experience coaching athletics or sponsoring extracurricular activities Skills & Competencies Passion for education and fostering a love of learning Ability to design meaningful, engaging, and challenging lessons Skill in differentiated instruction to meet diverse student needs Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic school environment Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively as part of a team Alignment with the school's mission and values Work Environment & Physical Requirements Work is performed in a school setting, including classrooms, hallways, outdoor spaces, and occasionally off-campus locations for field trips or school events Regularly required to stand, walk, and actively engage with students for extended periods of time Ability to sit, bend, kneel, stoop, and reach as needed to support student learning and classroom activities Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds (e.g., classroom materials, supplies, or assisting young children when appropriate) Requires visual and auditory ability to supervise students, maintain safety, and effectively deliver instruction Ability to manage a classroom environment that may include moderate noise levels and high levels of activity May involve outdoor duties such as carpool, recess supervision, or school events in varying weather conditions Requires the ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency or safety situations This role requires energy, flexibility, and a genuine enthusiasm for working with children in a dynamic, student-centered environment. How to Apply Please send a current resume along with a cover letter to: David Blake Head of School, Hickory Day School (828) 256-9492 dblake@hickoryday.

org Reports to:

Head of School Location:

Onsite, Hickory, NC Employment Type:

Full-time Projected Job Start Date:

August 2026

Standard Workday Hours:

7:30AM-3:30PM •additional time outside of these hours may be required for lesson planning, grading, conferences, school events, etc

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Hickory Day School is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs.