Benefits:
401(k)
Health insurance
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Anticipated High School Science Teacher
Position Overview
Daystar Academy seeks a passionate, relational science educator who will inspire high school students to think critically about the natural world, engage deeply with inquiry-based learning, and see science as a pathway to understanding and serving others. This teacher will create a warm and rigorous learning environment grounded in the International Baccalaureate framework and Daystar’s commitment to faith, cultural engagement, and global perspective.
Position Details
Reports to: Director of High School and Head of Schools
Work Days/Hours:
7:30 AM–3:30 PM Monday–Wednesday and Friday
7:30 AM–4:30 PM Thursday
Qualifications
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or a related field
Secondary science teaching experience or demonstrated subject matter expertise at a college level
Ability to build relational, inclusive learning environments where students feel known and valued
Strongly Preferred:
Secondary teacher certification in Illinois
Experience with International Baccalaureate MYP and/or DP programs
Familiarity with inquiry-based and concept-based instructional approaches
Essential Job Functions
Instructional Leadership
Teach four science courses aligned with IB MYP and/or DP frameworks, that adheres to NGSS and Common Core standards
Design (guided by curriculum) and deliver concept-based, inquiry-driven units that challenge students to think critically and make real-world connections
Integrate faith perspectives thoughtfully into curriculum, helping students explore how science and faith inform ethical decision-making and service
Develop and facilitate learning excursions (aiming for 2-4 per grade level annually) that deepen student understanding and engagement with the wider world
Create unit and lesson plans as prescribed, reflecting on pedagogical practice and adjusting based on student needs and learning data
Assessment & Student Growth
Use formative and summative assessments aligned with IB rubrics and standards to measure student progress toward learning objectives
Prepare students for internal and external DP assessments and grade those assessments according to IB rubrics
Maintain student work samples and provide timely, constructive feedback that helps students understand their growth and next steps
Use data regularly to inform instruction and support students across academic, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions
Community & Communication
Establish and maintain relational connections with students grounded in clear professional boundaries that foster trust and safety
Communicate regularly with parents/guardians through email, phone calls, progress reports, and parent-teacher conferences; address academic or behavioral concerns promptly
Update the Toddle platform regularly with classroom grades, highlights, and student reflections, celebrating student learning
Attend and actively participate in all required parent-facing events, including conferences, showcase nights, and learning celebrations
Collaboration & School Culture
Host a weekly elective (during the school day) to support co-curricular learning and engagement
Provide mentorship and assessment to students for Personal Project and Extended Essay, as assigned and with training
Collaborate with fellow teachers to plan and implement MYP interdisciplinary units that integrate multiple perspectives and disciplines
Work professionally and openly with colleagues to ensure consistency in expectations, teaching practices, and student support across the school
Participate actively in school engagement events, professional development, and staff prayer to build and sustain positive school culture
Supervise students during assigned times and assist with school events and responsibilities as needed
Professional Practice & Growth
Develop and regularly reflect on individual pedagogical goals, demonstrating a growth mindset and commitment to continuous improvement
Model and uphold Daystar Distinctives and Responsive Classroom practices in classroom management and student interactions
Maintain a safe, organized learning environment
About Daystar Academy
Daystar Academy is a faith-based, culturally-engaged, and globally-minded International Baccalaureate school serving students in grades PK–12. We intentionally build a diverse community—racially, socio-economically, and theologically—where students develop critical thinking skills, engage deeply with the world around them, and discover their calling to love, serve, and advocate for others. Our small community ensures that each student is known and valued, while our commitment to justice-oriented faith programming challenges students to live out their values in meaningful ways. Daystar Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive community.