Upper School Science Teacher

At Westridge, a forward-thinking independent girls’ school for grades 4-12 located in Pasadena, California, students have the space to develop the skills and confidence needed to draft their own extraordinary story. Since 1913, Westridge has been a leader in girls’ education, providing an unrivaled learning environment focused on girls’ academic and personal development. We balance challenging academics and a focus on leadership with a priority on social emotional wellness.

Westridge students develop a strong sense of self and a thoughtful consideration of their responsibilities to others and the world. Throughout its long history, Westridge has remained committed to its pioneering legacy so that each girl rises to her fullest potential and that women collectively rise to gender equity in the fullest sense.

The mission of the Westridge Science Department is to prepare students for lives of meaning, contribution, and impact as scientifically literate citizens. They critically analyze data and evaluate sources to make reasoned decisions and conclusions backed by evidence. Students articulate the interdependence of living and nonliving systems and the human impact on our dynamic world so they can envision a role for themselves in moving society forward responsibly.

The study of science provides students with the ability to explore their innate curiosity of the natural world. Using tools of inquiry and collaborative problem-solving, they experience the joy, wonder, and inspiration of scientific discovery and the satisfaction of persevering through difficulties and challenges.

Westridge is seeking an experienced upper school science teacher to join our team of dedicated faculty members beginning with the 2026-27 school year. The successful candidate will be able to teach chemistry, and experience teaching biology is a plus. They will bring an approach that differentiates levels of challenge while also building confidence in our students, and will focus on the process of science, incorporating skills essential to scientific methodology.

The ideal candidate will have an interest and skill in collaborating with colleagues, as well as the potential and willingness to contribute beyond the classroom. The upper school science teacher will inspire and challenge our students in alignment with the mission of the school. This position reports to the Director of Upper School.

• Convey enthusiasm for content and intellectual inquiry
• Design instruction that emphasizes critical thinking and problem solving
• Maintain grade-level science course pages
• Integrate appropriate technology to enhance learning;
  Westridge is a 1:1 laptop environment
• Collaborate effectively with students, teachers, administrators, staff and parents
• Model flexibility in implementing best learning practices
• Support the well-being of all students
• Participate regularly in professional development opportunities to maintain and grow expertise in the subject matter
• Participate in ongoing skill development in diversity and equity to promote a culture of community and inclusion
• Build skills and provide opportunities that help recognize, respect and embrace diversity of all kinds, and contribute to a culture of inclusion
• Participate in the greater life of the division and school including serving as an advisor

• Bachelor’s Degree required (science preferred); advanced degree preferred
• 3 years’ teaching experience, upper school students preferred
• Familiarity with the NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) and California Science Standards
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated competency in student and faculty work that promotes diversity, inclusion, equity, and community engagement
• Demonstrated experience and skill in the effective use of technology and integrating technological applications in the classroom
• Previous experience developing and implementing diversity responsive curriculum to improve teaching and student learning
• Collaborative and collegial attitude
• Diligent and well-organized work habits
• Strong understanding of the developmental needs of young girls
• Strong commitment to…