Duties

• Build and maintain professional relationships with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
• Assume a share of supervisory duties expected of all school faculty members.
• Plan and deliver standards-aligned lessons emphasizing the scientific method, laboratory inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking.
• Develop engaging units across general biology and advanced curricula (AP/Dual Credit) that support student curiosity, college readiness, and scientific literacy.
• Oversee and maintain a safe laboratory environment, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols and proper equipment/chemical hygiene regulations.
• Regularly analyze student learning data and adjust instruction to meet individual needs.
• Utilize varied instructional methods, materials, and technological tools to support diverse learners.
• Collaborate with science department members on curriculum design, assessment practices, and school-wide initiatives.
• Integrate educational technology and modern laboratory tools into lesson plans in compliance with district expectations.
• Provide periodic updates to parents/guardians through written communication and conferences.
• Maintain regular and prompt attendance and accurate grade records in Teacherease.
• Keep students, families, and administration informed of student progress or concerns.
• Create a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment for all students and hold students accountable for their conduct.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Participate in ongoing professional development as a licensed educator.
• Other duties as assigned by the school administration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Biology, Secondary Education, or a related scientific field with an appropriate Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and Senior High School Biology/Science endorsement.
• Strongly Preferred: Master’s Degree in Biology OR a Master’s Degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in Biology (required to meet institutional accreditation for Dual Credit instruction).
• Preferred: Prior experience teaching or formal College Board training in Advanced Placement (AP) Biology.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong, supportive relationships with high school learners.
• Highly organized and able to manage classroom instruction alongside safe, effective laboratory environments.
• Strong classroom management skills and willingness to model professionalism in all interactions.
• Deep knowledge of Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and advanced biological concepts.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and contribute to a team-oriented environment.
• Experience using instructional technology, modern lab equipment, and student-centered teaching strategies.

Salary/Benefits

Contract Details

Base salary is dictated by the Galena Federation of Teachers Collective Bargaining Agreement.

The district has a strong preference for candidates with experience leading or willingness to coach/sponsor extracurricular duties (such as Science Club, Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering, or athletic coaching) after the regular school day for additional stipend(s) included in the collective bargaining agreement above.

Additional Notes

The Galena School District seeks a dynamic, student-centered, and scientifically passionate educator for a High School Biology teaching position. The successful candidate will design and deliver engaging, rigorous lessons in general biology, while ideally possessing the credentials and expertise to lead Advanced Placement (AP) Biology and Dual Credit Biology courses. The teacher will work collaboratively with the high school science department to promote inquiry-based laboratory learning, critical thinking, and strong academic habits.

This role reports to the Principal and will work closely with department colleagues, intervention staff, and administration. The teacher will contribute to a positive school climate and support the mission, vision, and core values of Galena High School.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Anne Heim at anneheim@gusd120.k12.il.us:

• Employment application
• A cover letter outlining teaching philosophy and experiences related to secondary science and advanced coursework instruction.
• A current résumé
• Three letters of recommendation

District employment application found at: https://www.gusd120.k12.il.us/page/employment

Interviews are targeted for mid July. 

Questions regarding this position may be directed to Madeline Hawkins, Galena High School Principal at (815) 777-0917.

Link to District/Third Party Online Application Web Page

https://www.gusd120.k12.il.us/page/employment

Email Address

anneheim@gusd120.org

School District

https://www.gusd120.k12.il.us

Position Website

https://www.gusd120.k12.il.us/documents/employment-opportunities/applications/388291

City Website

https://www.visitgalena.org/industry/jo-daviess-county-new-residents-welcome-kit/

ILearn Link

ILearn

Report Card Link

District Report Card

Application Deadline

7/17/2026