Posted: 09-Mar-26
Location: Portage, Michigan
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Required Education:
The Vision
Kalamazoo Country Day School is moving past "STEM activities" toward a model of genuine inquiry. We are seeking a visionary educator to lead our Middle School Math and Science program. This individual will be the architect of our Beyond STEM Initiative, implementing a curriculum that treats students as scientists and mathematicians from day one.
You will not just be teaching from a textbook; you will be guiding students through OpenSciEd investigations, Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) challenges, and original research projects that culminate in public showcases.
Key Responsibilities
1. High-Level Instructional Leadership
- Science: Implement the OpenSciEd curriculum with fidelity, focusing on phenomenon-based learning and student-led investigations.
- Math: Lead rigorous mathematics instruction using College Preparatory Mathematics, moving beyond procedural memorization to deep conceptual reasoning.
- Research Mentorship: Direct the Research Apprenticeship Program, pairing 7th and 8th graders with university mentors for semester-long original projects.
2. AI & Technology Integration
- Technology Intelligence: Design and deliver a curriculum that teaches students how AI works (Large Language Models, neural networks) and how to use it ethically and effectively.
- Technology Integration: Offer school-wide leadership on integrating technology into classroom instruction
- Data Science: Teach students to use BBC micro:bit sensors and physical computing to collect, code, and analyze original field data.
- Future-Proofing: Ensure students can distinguish between "real" and "synthetic" media, preparing them for a world of information noise.
3. Competition & Extracurricular Excellence
- Serve as the lead coach for our MATHCOUNTS and Science Olympiad teams, building a culture of healthy intellectual competition.
- Direct the Spring Research Symposium, managing the transition from student inquiry to professional-grade public presentation.
Why Join KCDS?
At KCDS, we are small by design. You will have the autonomy to innovate and the resources to execute high-level programming. You will work directly with Dr. Scott Kemple to redefine what middle school education looks like in Kalamazoo County.
We offer:
- A collaborative, high-trust professional environment.
- Opportunities to lead the Summer Math & Science Institute.
- Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and expertise.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter that outlines your philosophy on education in the age of AI, your CV, and a portfolio of any original student research or innovative curriculum you have led.
Direct all materials to Dr. Scott Kemple at skemple@mykcds.org.
Kalamazoo Country Day School is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse faculty that reflects our commitment to global citizenship.
Qualifications & Mindset
- Educational Background: Degree in Education, Math, Science, or a related field (Masters Degree or higher preferred).
- Experience: Proven track record of innovation and leadership in Math and Science
- Michigan Teaching Certification: Highly recommended
- Technical Fluency: Ability to work with educational technology, data visualization tools and AI platforms.