Website Hastings Public Schools
Category: Elementary School Teaching
Date Posted: 5/7/2026
Location: John F. Kennedy Elementary
Position Summary
The K-4 STEM Specialist Course Teacher is responsible for designing and delivering engaging, hands-on learning experiences that integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for elementary students. This educator will foster curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through inquiry-based learning, project-based instruction, and interdisciplinary connections.
Key Responsibilities
Instruction & Curriculum Development
Design and implement engaging K-4 STEM curriculum that aligns with state and national standards.
Develop hands-on, project-based learning experiences that promote creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Integrate technology, engineering design, and coding to enhance student learning.
Foster an inclusive classroom environment that supports diverse learners, including multilingual students and students with special needs.
Collaboration & Professional Growth
Collaborate with instructional teams to develop cross-curricular projects and interdisciplinary units.
Engage in professional learning to stay current with best practices in STEM education.
Student Engagement & Assessment
Encourage student inquiry through hands-on experimentation, maker-space activities, and problem-solving challenges.
Use a variety of assessment methods to monitor student progress and inform instruction.
Support students in developing perseverance, adaptability, and a growth mindset in problem-solving.
School & Community Engagement
Establish partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and higher education institutions to enhance real-world learning opportunities.
Advocate for STEM education by sharing student successes and program highlights with the school community.
Qualifications
Required:
MN State License as an Elementary Teacher Education or relevant STEM-related field.
Bachelors from an accredited college or university in Elementary Education or related discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
Strong instructional skills in integrating technology and hands-on learning.
Skills & Attributes
Passion for fostering innovation, creativity, and exploration in young learners.
Ability to create a dynamic, student-centered learning environment.
Strong collaboration and communication skills with colleagues, students, and families.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally relevant teaching practices.
Work Environment
Classroom and makerspace settings with hands-on learning materials.
Opportunities for outdoor learning and interdisciplinary projects.
This position is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers, creators, and innovators. If you are passionate about STEM education and elementary learners, we encourage you to apply!
Utilize technology and digital resources to enhance student learning and engagement in STEM subjects.
Professional Development:
Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with STEM education trends and best practices.
Collaboration:
Work closely with other teachers, parents, and community partners to support student learning and promote STEM initiatives.
Extracurricular Activities:
Organize and lead extracurricular STEM-related clubs, competitions, and events.
Host an annual Science Fair as an enrichment opportunity for students.
Qualifications:
Must possess or be eligible for a K-6 or K-5 Elementary Education license in the state of Minnesota
Experience in teaching elementary students, preferably in STEM education
Strong understanding of or willingness to learn STEM concepts and ability to teach them effectively
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners
Preferred Skills:
Experience or coursework in STEM instruction, project-based learning, or makerspace environments.
Endorsement or additional certification in STEM/STEAM education.
Experience with coding, robotics, engineering design, or digital fabrication.
Knowledge of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), differentiation, and strategies for diverse learners.
Our staff receive:
Professional development opportunities offered through the District
Strong mentoring program for first year staff
Selection Procedure:
Candidates who are under further consideration will be contacted for an interview. Position will remain open until filled.
Compensation/Benefit Information:
Salary Range per the 2025-2027 Teacher Master Agreement $50,970-$93,753
This position is benefit eligible. Please see the Teacher Master Agreement for details.
District Application Guidelines
Please complete your application by clicking the box below:
District ApplicationAPPLICATION PROCESS
- Be sure to review the district’s requirements for the application process and provide all required documents.
- Districts now require that candidates apply through an external link. The link will be noted in the job posting.