High School Math: Calculus/Pre-Calculus Teacher

To be considered for the High School Math: Calculus/Pre-Calculus Teacher role at Excel Academy, applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree, with a Master’s degree preferred. While a minimum of two years’ teaching experience in urban public or charter schools is preferred, it is not mandatory. The ideal candidate will have a dedication to Excel Academy’s mission and values and a commitment to addressing educational inequities.

As a High School Math: Calculus/Pre-Calculus Teacher at Excel Academy, your primary responsibilities will include teaching multiple sections of high school calculus and pre-calculus, collaborating with colleagues to enhance the math curriculum, designing assessments that gauge student learning, and fostering a safe, engaging classroom environment where every student can succeed.

Excel Academy places a strong emphasis on the growth of its educators. Teachers are encouraged to seek and receive frequent, high-quality feedback on their teaching practices. The collaborative environment invites sharing innovative ideas and strategies among faculty, ensuring continuous improvement and professional development tailored to each teacher's journey.

At Excel Academy, teachers are encouraged to implement rigorous and effective teaching strategies that promote student engagement and mastery of math concepts. This includes leveraging collaboration, hands-on learning experiences, differentiated instruction, and consistent classroom management practices to create a supportive learning atmosphere.

The classroom environment at Excel Academy is designed to be both inclusive and safe, where all students can thrive. Teachers focus on creating a community where students feel valued and supported, promoting both academic and social-emotional development within the learning space.

Excel Academy fosters a collaborative culture among its teachers, focused on teamwork and community engagement. Teachers support each other in their professional journeys, share best practices, and work collectively to uphold the school’s mission of providing a quality education that promotes equity.

The impact of a High School Math: Calculus/Pre-Calculus Teacher at Excel Academy is profound. By providing quality math instruction and holistic support, teachers directly contribute to closing educational gaps, empowering students to pursue their post-secondary goals and fundamentally changing their life trajectories.

To engage students who struggle with calculus, I would utilize differentiated instruction techniques, scaffold learning by building on students' existing knowledge, and employ real-world applications of calculus to demonstrate its relevance. Additionally, I would create a supportive classroom environment that encourages questions and fosters a growth mindset.

An example of a successful math lesson I taught involved using technology, such as graphing calculators, to explore functions in pre-calculus. Students worked in groups to analyze graphs and discuss their findings, which not only deepened their understanding of functions but also promoted collaborative learning.

To assess student mastery in calculus, I would use formative assessments such as quizzes and interactive activities throughout the lessons to monitor progress. I would also implement summative assessments, such as comprehensive projects and exams, that test their knowledge and ability to apply calculus concepts in various contexts.

Creating an inclusive classroom involves getting to know my students’ diverse backgrounds, learning styles, and interests. I would implement culturally responsive teaching practices, vary my instructional methods, and establish norms that celebrate diversity and foster respect among students.

In my math classes, I employ a proactive classroom management strategy that includes setting clear expectations, implementing consistent routines, and developing engaging, interactive lessons. I believe in addressing issues early and fostering positive relationships with students, so they feel comfortable communicating openly.

My motivation to teach math stems from the challenge and beauty of the subject, particularly in calculus and pre-calculus. I am passionate about helping students see math as more than just numbers but as a way to solve real-world problems and develop critical thinking skills that are essential for their future.

Integrating technology into calculus lessons can enhance understanding and engagement. I would use tools like graphing software and online simulations to visualize calculus concepts, as well as platforms for collaborative problem-solving where students can share their insights and learn from one another.

Staying current with best practices in math education requires ongoing professional development. I attend workshops, participate in webinars, and engage with professional organizations that focus on innovative teaching strategies, and I continuously seek peer feedback to improve my practice.

Social-emotional learning is crucial in mathematics education, as it helps build resilience and confidence in students. By fostering a supportive environment, I aim to create a classroom where students feel safe to take risks, learn from mistakes, and ultimately develop a positive relationship with math.

I approach collaborative planning with colleagues by prioritizing open communication and shared goals. I believe in co-developing lesson plans that incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences, which can enrich the curriculum and ultimately benefit our students' learning outcomes.