Position: Upper School Physical Science Teacher, Full Time 

Reports to: Upper School Director 

Job Summary

CIS, a college-preparatory, independent school with a rich history of science education, is seeking a creative, committed, and relationship-focused teacher of upper school physical sciences, including Physics and Chemistry. The candidate will be given autonomy to develop an appropriate curriculum with the guidance and support of an engaged and collegial department and administrative staff. The position requires a deep understanding of the physical sciences, as well as a love for the subject that can be transferred to students of various ages, abilities, and interests. Working as a science teacher at Columbia Independent School offers a very rewarding experience. The focus of the curriculum is on problem-solving, global perspectives, and a good-fit educational experience for each student. Class sizes are intentionally small to facilitate high-quality teaching and mentorship. Students begin studying science as a special in the Junior Kindergarten program and continue with science study throughout their education at CIS; we have many enthusiastic upper-school science learners, and many of our graduates go on to major in the sciences.

Columbia, Missouri

CIS is a growing school of 450 students from age 3 to Grade 12 located in a mid-sized city halfway between the major metropolitan areas of St. Louis and Kansas City.  Columbia is home to the flagship University of Missouri and offers all the amenities of a college town—and a populace that values education, cultural opportunities, award-winning restaurants, and collegiate athletics. Outdoor opportunities abound in the area.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This position will require ability and interest in teaching Physical Science classes, most likely 9th grade Physics, 11th grade Chemistry, and 11th/12th grade Advanced Chemistry and/or Physics. The candidate will also have the opportunity to develop one or more additional electives in cooperation with the department and division director. In addition, CIS teachers are expected to:

• Update and create curriculum in conjunction with the departmental goals
• Work with students on an individual basis (as needed) outside of regularly scheduled class times
• Provide regular feedback (written and verbal) to students and parents
• Update learning management course page assignments on a daily basis 
• Update electronic grade books on a regular basis 
• Prepare progress reports and conduct conferences for students and parents
• Collaborate with other departments on cross-curricular connections.
• Attend faculty, divisional, and departmental meetings as scheduled
• Support the mission of the school through teaching, advising, and participating as a member of the faculty

Other Duties

• Serve as an advisor to a group of 10-12 upper school students 
• Serve as an advisor for an academic club or social activity
• Provide support for and chaperone middle or upper school functions (field trips, socials, dances, etc.)
• Take advantage of various professional development opportunities
• Model life-long learning through personal and professional growth
• Serve as an ambassador for the school at Open Houses and other admissions or public relations activities

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in science
• Teaching experience preferred
• Working knowledge of current technology used in science education, with a willingness to learn more
• Demonstrated passion for working with students of various ages and an understanding of the developmental needs of the adolescent age groups
• Commitment to the success of every student
• Proven collaborator and team member
• Innovative and optimistic thinker
• Life-long learner with a growth mindset

How to Apply

Interested candidates for the 2025-2026  school year should submit the following to resumes@cislions.org:  Letter of Interest, Statement of Educational Philosophy, and Resumé/CV.

About Columbia Independent School

Columbia Independent School is an independent, coeducational, college-preparatory day school of 378 students in junior kindergarten through grade twelve, located in mid-Missouri near the University of Missouri, Stephens College, and Columbia College. Founded in 1998, CIS seeks to foster superior academic, artistic, athletic, and social growth for each of its students. Students come from a variety of socio-economic, religious, ethnic, and racial backgrounds from Columbia and the surrounding area, as well as foreign countries. Columbia Independent School is a member of National Association of Independent Schools, ISACS, National Association for College Admission Counseling, The College Board, Educational Records Bureau, and National Honor Society. Columbia Independent School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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