Science Department Chair LHS

Science Department Chair - LHS

Responsibilities: The Science Department Chair is an administrative position responsible for providing departmental leadership for members of the Science department. In addition, the Science Department Chair works to implement the District's mission to ignite the potential of each student through relevant, rigorous learning rooted in belonging and support as well as advance District 128's strategic plan action steps in the areas of: excellence and readiness, culture of belonging, human talent, and financial stewardship. The Science Department Chair has the primary role in hiring, supervising, evaluating, and retaining Science teachers. Guiding the development, implementation, and evaluation of curriculum and courses, as well as facilitating and organizing professional learning for the Science staff are important responsibilities of the department chair. Collaboration with building and district leaders is required on a consistent basis.

Employee status: Department Chair, non-bargaining unit member

Daily Job description: Teach 2 classes in Science and department leadership responsibilities, 7:30am - 4:00pm

Other building level duties as assigned by Principal

Qualifications: Illinois Professional Educator License with Administrative Endorsement

Previous administration experience is preferred

Certification to teach in Science subject area(s).

Calendar: 194 days, School year and an additional 10 days

Shared responsibility for evening activities supervision

Professional/Personal Characteristics:

• Ability to build and maintain strong, positive relationships with all stakeholders. An understanding that relationships and culture matter most.
• Leadership philosophy and practices that demonstrate high personal and professional standards and ethics.
• Shares credit freely and takes responsibility for mistakes.
• Has a genuine lack of ego and a focus on the larger mission.
• Takes initiative without needing to be asked, and stays persistent through challenges.
• Demonstrates strong interpersonal awareness and emotional intelligence.
• Relates well to colleagues, communicates clearly, and adapts to different personalities.
• Understands the impact of words and actions on others.
• Strong organizational, time management, & communication skills.
• A life-long learner who actively seeks opportunities to grow and develop their leadership skills.
• A collaborative leader who has the ability to build and maintain effective teams, manage facilities, and partner with other departments in the school and district.
• Leadership philosophy and practices that demonstrate high personal and professional standards and ethics.

Job Responsibilities:

• SYSTEMS: Coordinates and implements school-level evidence-based best practice in curriculum, instruction, feedback and assessment; uses data to drive instructional decision-making. Ability to work effectively with all levels of leadership within our District 128 community.
• EQUITY: Demonstrated equity leadership; ensures that the curriculum and instruction implement the beliefs and commitments of the D128 Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Policy.
• CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT: Ability to develop a curricular vision with the department and provide professional learning and resources for moving it forward; aligns work of the Science Department with the D128 mission and strategic plan.
• INNOVATION: Extensive knowledge of the trends and best practices in Science Education and the ability to help design and implement unique programs to serve student post-secondary needs
• PROFESSIONAL LEARNING: Coordinates, develops and implements research-based professional learning for staff.
• BUDGET/RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: Develop and supervise the department budget, work with D128 Business Office to manage department funds, order and obtain instructional supplies, manage department equipment, machines, and instructional materials. Manages grants connected to Science department initiatives and programs as needed.
• COLLABORATION: Coordinates and collaborates with the building teams on the effectiveness of all professional learning opportunities.
• STAFFING: Leads Science staff hiring processes; responsible for development, supervision, and evaluation of all Science certified/non certified staff.
• COMMUNITY: Collaborates with the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning in the Career Exploration and Community Partnerships program.

Compensation: Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience; comprehensive benefits package

Application Process: Candidates must complete an online application which includes a letter of interest, current resume, three letters of reference and college/university transcripts. In-district candidates must complete an online application which includes a letter of interest and a current resume. Early submission of all required materials is requested. Deadline for a completed application is January 4, 2027.

Visit our website at www.district128.org for application information.

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