Virginia Association of Science Teachers

Jobs

(posted 8.31.11) Director of VISTA Science Education

The George Mason University, Center for Restructuring Education in Science and Technology (CREST) in the College of Education and Human Development is seeking a full-time professional faculty member to serve as Director of Science Education for the Virginia Initiative for Science Teaching and Achievement (VISTA), and to collaborate directly with the principal investigator on the overall leadership and management of the project.

Incumbent will also work in collaboration with the Director of VISTA Operations and other VISTA-affiliated faculty and staff to coordinate the overall planning, development and administration of this large-scale, state-wide project. The purpose of this five-year initiative, primarily funded by the United States Department of Education as an Investing in Innovation (i3) project, is to improve science teaching and student learning in grades 4-12 throughout the commonwealth of Virginia.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Leading and overseeing VISTA science education activities;
- Building and maintaining collaborative relationships and communications with all VISTA partners including university partners, state agency partners and school division partners among other project allies;
- Coordinating development and implementation of VISTA professional development programs for teachers, administrators, teacher coaches, school leaders and college faculty;
- Teaching as part of the professional development team;
- Coordinating the VISTA Advisory Board;
- Assisting with research and evaluation planning;
- Supervising assigned VISTA staff; and
- Collaborating with the principal investigator, and other VISTA personnel, on grant-related functions including writing and compiling reports.

Minimum qualifications include at least seven years of relevant professional experience in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education (i.e., teaching and/or administration); and an advanced degree (doctoral degree preferred) in STEM education or in a related field. Specific expertise in elementary science education is especially desirable. The successful candidate must be able to relate at a concrete level to the experience of elementary and secondary teachers, and also must have knowledge of P-12 school operations and leadership. Incumbent must be passionate about active, engaged, problem-based science teaching, learning, contemporary science education and innovative teacher professional development.

The successful candidate will have outstanding communication skills, both verbal and written; excellent capabilities with respect to analyzing and solving problems; strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with multiple partners and to navigate varying interests; strong project and team management skills; and an ability to combine visionary thinking with careful attention to detail.

For full consideration, applicants must apply online at http://jobs.gmu.edu for position number FA56Az; complete the faculty application; and attach a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references with their contact information. If you have problems with your materials please contact ghaller@gmu.edu.

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