The Division Science Program Specialist provides leadership and support for teachers and administrators on behalf of the Chief Academic Office (CAO). The position is responsible for providing leadership in K-12 Science classes and for monitoring instruction for Science at the Elementary and Secondary level. Regular and frequent contacts are expected to be made at all organizational levels within and outside the department of teaching and learning to develop, implement, and monitor programs, resources, and policies related to the K-12 written, taught and tested curricula in Science. Position is responsible for analyzing school Science data and planning for future needs in this area. Position is responsible for supporting the division level curriculum and assessment program. Considerable professional judgment is required.

Essential Job Functions:

Monitors school level implementation of PCPS expectations in Science through direct coaching of classroom teachers and administrators, to include monthly meetings, professional development and coordinating instructional walks.

Promotes teachers' delivery and understanding of the district curricula in Science content development through explicit professional development on the use of curriculum documents, suggested learning activities, resources and assessments.

Monitors the implementation of the science curricula by observing classroom instruction and providing evidence-based, non-evaluative feedback to PCPS teachers and administrators.

Assists with the selection of effective instructional methods and strategies, materials, and equipment (including technology resources) that are aligned to the VA SOLs.

Analyzes and uses division and school level data to identify professional development needs of individual teachers and administrators or groups of teachers in science.


Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Demonstrated knowledge related to designing and facilitating professional development programs.

Knowledge of current curriculum development theory and practice, Virginia Standards of Learning, Science instructional programming, learning theory, school organization, supervision, and federal, state and local resources for science instruction.

Demonstrated ability to observe, monitor, and evaluate programs.

Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex programs and activities and ability to organize, schedule and monitor work assignments.

Ability to train and advise staff, to communicate effectively (orally and in writing) and demonstrated skills in decision-making, problem-solving, conflict resolution, interpersonal relationships, program management and research and planning.

Demonstrated ability to use and access a variety of media and technology to support job functions and classroom instruction including, but not limited to, proficient use of Microsoft Office applications.

Demonstrated leadership qualities and personal characteristics necessary for working effectively with students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members.

Education, Training and Experience Requirement:

Must possess a Master's degree and be eligible for a Virginia Teaching License. Degree in Science is preferred.

A minimum of five (5) years of successful full-time teaching experience in a public school is required.

Evidence of participation in professional development opportunities related to school administration and Science related education desirable.

Must possess an in-depth knowledge of instructional best practices and adult learning theory.

Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school colleagues, school administrators, parents and students.