8th Grade Science/Social Studies Teacher – IDEA Lakeland College Prep (26-27)

Join IDEA Public Schools as an 8th Grade Science and Social Studies Teacher at IDEA Lakeland College Prep for the 2026–2027 school year. This full-time position in Lakeland, Polk County, offers educators the opportunity to guide middle school students toward college readiness while helping them develop critical academic and social skills.

What This Role Involves

As an 8th grade educator at IDEA Lakeland College Prep, you'll deliver instruction designed to build student mastery in science and social studies. Your teaching will connect curricular content to real-world contexts, preparing students for high school rigor and college-level work. You'll establish a classroom environment grounded in IDEA's core values, where every student is held to high academic standards and feels supported in achieving them.

Core Duties

• Develop and teach purposeful, rigorous lessons across life science, earth science, physical science, and social studies content areas
• Set ambitious achievement targets for students and monitor progress toward learning goals
• Engage families as partners in student learning through regular communication and collaboration
• Create a welcoming classroom culture where students take intellectual risks and build confidence as learners
• Use varied instructional strategies—including discussion, inquiry, and project-based learning—to deepen engagement and understanding
• Assess student learning consistently and adjust teaching to meet individual needs
• Model IDEA Public Schools' values and expectations in all daily interactions

Skills & Qualifications

• Current state certification or eligibility to teach middle school science and social studies
• Solid grasp of 8th grade science content across multiple domains
• Knowledge of 8th grade social studies (U.S. history, civics, geography, or related disciplines)
• Genuine commitment to college-preparatory education and closing achievement gaps
• Experience building meaningful relationships with students' families
• Strong classroom management and communication abilities
• Skill in differentiating instruction to support learners across readiness levels

About the Company

IDEA Public Schools operates college-preparatory charter schools with a mission to ensure every student masters the academic and social foundations for college success. The organization believes that high-quality teaching, engaged families, and a values-centered school culture unlock student potential. IDEA Lakeland College Prep serves middle and high school students in the Lakeland and Polk County region, part of a nationwide network dedicated to expanding educational opportunity.

Applying for This Role

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.