OWNCS 1 Middle School, located in Long Island City, Queens, is committed to providing students with a first-class learning experience that maximizes their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development. We cultivate students’ ability to apply their knowledge to solve problems and contribute to their communities as enlightened and responsible citizens. OWN Charter Schools (OWNCS) seeks a Science Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year who will collaborate with a dynamic team of educators to deliver engaging, project-based learning experiences for students in grades 6–8. The ideal candidate will design and facilitate developmentally appropriate instruction and assessments aligned with the New York State Learning Standards, fostering students’ intellectual, physical, and social growth while inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for scientific inquiry.

• Valid New York State Initial or Professional Certificate in Science (Grades 5–9) – (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics, or General Science)
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience teaching Middle School science in a school setting preferred.
• Experience with FOSS or other inquiry-based science curricula strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with NYS Science Learning Standards and state assessment expectations.
• Experience supporting diverse learners, including ENL students and students with disabilities.
• Strong classroom management, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to create engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for elementary students.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented school environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout the classroom and school building during instructional activities.
• Ability to supervise and facilitate hands-on laboratory and classroom activities.
• Ability to lift and move classroom or science materials as needed.
• Ability to maintain a safe instructional environment for students.

The Science Teacher is responsible for planning and delivering engaging, standards-aligned science instruction for students in grades 6–8. Working collaboratively with a team of educators, the teacher creates a student-centered learning environment that promotes scientific inquiry, critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic achievement. The Science Teacher designs and implements project-based learning experiences, uses student data to inform instruction, differentiates learning to meet diverse student needs, and fosters the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of all students while supporting the mission and values of OWN Charter Schools.

Essential Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging, standards-aligned science instruction to students in grades 6–8.
• Create a positive, student-centered classroom environment that promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and academic achievement.
• Design and implement hands-on, inquiry-based, and project-based learning experiences.
• Assess student progress regularly and use data to inform instruction and support student growth.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of all students.
• Collaborate with colleagues, families, and school leaders to support student success.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance and communicate progress effectively with students and families.
• Participate in professional development, team meetings, and school-wide initiatives.
• Uphold the mission, values, and expectations of OWN Charter Schools.

Pay & Benefits

Salary

Salary Range: $72,562 – $115,136 based on education, certification, years of relevant experience, and verified prior service, in alignment with the OWNCS salary scale.

Employees with 30 credits beyond a master’s degree (MA +30) may be eligible for additional compensation in accordance with the salary schedule.

Schedule

This is a 10-month instructional position, with salary and benefits distributed evenly over 12 months to ensure consistent income and year-round coverage.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Healthcare Coverage

• Fully employer-funded medical, dental, and vision plans

Financial Wellness

• 401(k) retirement plan with immediate vesting

• 3% Safe Harbor employer contribution

• 100% employer match on the first 3% of employee contributions

• Annual contribution limit of $23,000, with an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution for eligible employees

• Commuter benefits and flexible spending accounts (FSA)

• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Work-Life Balance

• 10 paid PTO days

• Additional vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays

Wellness Perks

• Gym reimbursement and wellness incentives

• Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage

Mental Health Support

• Free Talkspace therapy access

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Peace of Mind

• Employer-paid life insurance

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Paid Family Leave (PFL)

• FMLA protections

• Workers’ compensation coverage

• Identity theft protection

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our World Neighborhood Charter Schools is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Candidates from all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Spanish language proficiency is strongly preferred.