Poly Prep seeks applicants for the position of Science Department Chair for the 2026-2027 school year. We are seeking a dynamic, thoughtful, and energetic science educator to lead our Science Department in pursuit of academic excellence in the study and practice of science. In addition to inspiring students’ curiosity and enthusiasm for science learning and scientific habits of mind, we seek an individual who is eager to promote professional growth among departmental faculty; develop and oversee curricular pathways and innovations; model excellent pedagogy and best practices; and collaborate with other departmental chairs and members of the administration in providing academic leadership in a variety of school contexts.

The ideal candidate will embrace our school’s dedication to diversity in all its forms, encourage cutting-edge approaches to science teaching and learning, and demonstrate a compelling blend of passion and professionalism in all aspects of this role. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Promote a vision for the department’s growth as a leader in science education.
• Structure and lead productive and engaging departmental meetings and actively participate in weekly faculty, grade-level, and department chair meetings.
• Demonstrate energetic responsiveness to feedback and commitment to professional development.
• Evaluate faculty within the context of departmental and individual goals, and motivate them to pursue professional growth.
• Familiarize the department with NSTA position statements on Safety and School Science Instruction and adhere to New York state and municipal rules and regulations regarding safety in school science facilities.
• Teach 3 classes/sections, modeling best practices in science education; maintain an up-to-date, accurate online gradebook; and work with students on an individual basis, as needed.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with families, both about individual student progress and the school’s science curriculum and pedagogy.
• Support the department’s commitment to serving a range of learners in innovative and engaging ways.
• Accompany students on occasional curricular trips.
• Participate actively in school events throughout the academic year.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Assistant Head of School, Academics and the Head of School.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Masters degree in a relevant field of science and/or science education.

Experience: Minimum of three years of teaching experience.

Specific Skills: Excellent writing, oral communication, and interpersonal skills required. Knowledge of Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and integrative and interdisciplinary approaches to teaching and learning strongly preferred. 

Certifications/Licenses: N/A

Special Requirements: N/A

Salary $92,447 - $121,730

Poly Prep strives to be an equitable, just, and diverse community, one proud of and deeply committed to empowering students to discover who they are and what they want to be. In keeping with the country day school philosophy, we seek community members who will share a passion for learning in and out of the classroom. Every educator at Poly Prep aspires to uphold our mission “to support and inspire the next diverse generation of leaders and global citizens to act with intelligence, imagination and--above all--character.”

We offer a supportive environment, with a full benefits package  (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a generous match on our 403(b) retirement plan, long-term disability, flexible spending account, pre-tax commute benefit, and free lunch).