Science Teacher | QFHS - Santa Rosa

Science Teacher | Quest Forward High School - Santa Rosa

https://qfhs.org/santarosa/

About Quest Forward High School Santa Rosa
Quest Forward High School (QFHS) Santa Rosa is a private, college-preparatory high school that empowers students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed for success in college, careers, and life. Established in 2017, the school offers small class sizes, personalized learning, and a unique curriculum focused on critical thinking, digital creativity, and service leadership. With its College Admissions Advantage (CAA) program and hands-on career exploration, QFHS Santa Rosa provides a supportive and engaging environment where students take ownership of their learning and future success. As part of Opportunity Education (www.opportunityeducation.org), QFHS Santa Rosa aims to set a model for schools nationwide.

About the Role: Science Teacher

The Science Teacher will play a vital role in shaping a rigorous, engaging, and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. As a  teacher at Quest Forward, you will have the opportunity to participate in the  building of a strong science program that fosters both conceptual understanding and real-world application.

Reporting to the school director, with regular coaching from the schools Associate Director, Teaching & Learning, the Science Teacher will be responsible for delivering high-quality instruction, collaborating with colleagues to align curriculum and instructional practices, leveraging student data for continuous improvement, and helping students develop the skills and confidence needed for success in high school and beyond. This role is ideal for an educator who is deeply knowledgeable in science, skilled in engaging students of diverse backgrounds, and excited about being part of an innovative school model that prioritizes academic excellence, student agency, and college readiness.

Responsibilities

As a dynamic and growing organization, responsibilities will evolve; however, core areas of focus include:

Instruction Delivery & Curriculum Development (65%)

• Deliver engaging and rigorous instruction in alignment with state standards, college readiness assessments,  and school priorities
• Develop and implement student-centered lesson plans that encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and scientific reasoning
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners, including hands-on activities, project-based learning, and technology integration
• Regularly assess student progress using a combination of formative and summative assessments to guide instruction
• Provide students with clear, actionable feedback that supports growth and mastery

Student Engagement & Support (20%)

• Build strong relationships with students, fostering a culture of high expectations, accountability, and support
• Serve as an Advisory teacher, mentoring a small group of students in academic and personal growth
• Differentiate instruction and provide targeted interventions to ensure all students succeed
• Collaborate with staff and other support personnel to meet the needs of all learners, including those with educational support  plans
• Contribute to the development of a strong school culture within the school through tutoring, clubs, or extracurricular opportunities

Collaboration & Professional Growth (10%)

• Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies
• Participate in school-wide professional development to continuously refine instructional practice, including regular data and assessment reflection cycles
• Engage in feedback cycles with the Associate Director, Teaching and Learning and the school director to improve teaching effectiveness

Family & Community Engagement (5%)

• Communicate regularly with families about student progress, celebrating successes and addressing challenges proactively
• Participate in school events, family conferences, and outreach efforts to build strong relationships with families and the community
• Support families in seeing the relevance of science in their child’s  future careers and post-secondary aspirations

Ideal Candidate Experiences

• 3+ years of teaching experience, preferably in secondary science
• Strong track record of student achievement in science
• Experience designing and implementing differentiated instruction to meet the needs of students of varying science courses
• Proven academic growth for students below grade level with science interventions
• Experience integrating technology into science  instruction, particularly to enhance student engagement 

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Deep belief in all students’ potential and a commitment to holding high academic and behavioral expectations
• A growth mindset, constantly seeking to refine and improve instructional practice
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Passion for science education and making science relevant and engaging for students
• Adaptability and excitement about being part of a team at a Quest Forward
• Readiness to go above and beyond, including putting in extra time in and outside of your role, to build Quest Forward High School

Application Process

Please apply online at https://qfhs.org/careers/ 

Compensation

Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations.  This role is eligible for IPERS (Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System) and a full suite of medical, dental, vision, and other benefits.

Start Date 

The expected start date for the position is late July 2025, with onboarding and professional development before the school year begins to ensure a successful founding year.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.