A Science Teacher teaches in the natural science fields for elementary to secondary school students. Most science courses taught prior to high school are general, with specialization occurring later in high school. Teachers may teach specialized courses in physics, biology or chemistry. Other topics taught include physical science, computer science, astronomy, and geology.
$68,777 / year median in Washington, D.C. (District of Columbia)
Life Science (Biology) Teacher - John R. Thompson, Jr. High School
HS SY '26-27 DC
Public Schools - 3.5 Washington, DC Job Details Full-time From $60,000 a year 15 hours ago Benefits Health savings account Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Flexible spending account Paid time off Vision insurance 401(k) matching Employee discount Life insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Biology Behavior management Teamwork Bachelor's degree Full Job Description Our students need your expertise, passion, and leadership. Are you ready to join something bigger? We are looking for highly motivated, skilled, and equity-minded talent to join our team at John R. Thompson, Jr. High School (Formerly known as MacArthur HS) for the 2026-27 school year. We seek individuals who are passionate about transforming the DC school system and making a significant difference in the lives of our public school students, parents, and the greater DC community. John R. Thompson, Jr. High School is an institution rooted in the pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. Situated in the heart of Ward 3, our school serves a diverse population and strives to provide a safe and supportive environment that nurtures the potential of every student. We celebrate the richness of our student body and staff. Our mission is to cultivate the next generation of global leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. We offer Pre-AP, Advanced Placement, and Honors courses, providing students with ample opportunities to challenge themselves and reach their full potential. We also place a strong emphasis on STEM education, particularly in the fields of engineering and computer science. DCPS serves approximately 51,000 students in the nation's capital through the efforts of approximately 4,200 educators in 116 schools. As part of a comprehensive reform effort to become the preeminent urban school system in America, DCPS intends to have the highest-performing, best paid, most satisfied, and most honored educator force in the nation and a distinctive central office staff whose work supports and drives instructional excellence and significant achievement gains for DCPS students. Position Overview Vision Every student feels loved, challenged, and prepared to positively influence and thrive in life. Mission Ensure that every school guarantees students reach their full potential through rigorous and joyful learning experiences provided in a nurturing environment.
Strategic Priorities Promote Equity:
Define, understand, and promote equity so that we can eliminate gaps and systematically interrupt institutional bias.
Empower Our People:
Recruit, develop, and retain a talented, caring, and diverse team.
Ensure Excellent Schools:
Increase the number of excellent schools throughout the city. Educate the
Whole Child:
Provide rigorous, joyful, and inclusive academic and social emotional learning experiences to ensure all students are college and career ready. This position is a safety-sensitive position. As a result, throughout employment this position will be subject to the Employee Mandatory Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy. The Teacher (10-month) will report to the Principal. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The statements below are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned. Sets and reinforces clear expectations and routines that are aligned with the school's overall vision. Develops and implements curricula and activities to meet academic standards. Thoughtfully plans daily lessons and implements specific strategies to meet the needs of all students, providing extra support, enrichment, or variation of work when necessary. Demonstrates strong content knowledge. Designs and implements assessments that measure progress towards academic standards and diagnoses areas of student misunderstanding. Uses assessment data to refine curriculum and informs instructional practices. Is accountable for students' academic growth and increases each individual student's achievement. Creates a positive, achievement-oriented learning environment. Reflects on successes and areas of growth as a teacher, seeks to improve performance, and responds to feedback. Participates in collaborative curriculum development, grade-level activities, and school-wide functions. Invests parents and families in their children's academic success through regular communication. Qualifications Bachelor's degree. Previous exposure to or experience in the education sector a plus. Possesses or is eligible for a valid District of Columbia Teaching License issued by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Strong instructional skills and classroom management. Enthusiasm for and demonstrated mastery of subject matter. Unrelenting commitment to students, self, and school's constant learning and development. Ability to self-reflect on teaching practices and be responsive to feedback. DCPS Values
STUDENTS FIRST
: We recognize students as whole children and put their needs first in everything we do.
COURAGE :
We have the audacity to learn from our successes and failures, to try new things, and to lead the nation as a proof point of PK-12 success.
EQUITY :
We work proactively to eliminate opportunity gaps by interrupting institutional bias and investing in effective strategies to ensure every student succeeds.
EXCELLENCE
: We work with integrity and hold ourselves accountable for exemplary outcomes, service, and interactions.
TEAMWORK
: We recognize that our greatest asset is our collective vision and ability to work collaboratively and authentically.
JOY :
We enjoy our collective work and will enthusiastically celebrate our success and each other.
Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
From $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance
