Virtual Elementary Math Teacher (Part-Time)

As a Virtual Elementary Math Teacher at AoPS Academy, your key responsibilities will include teaching engaging math classes to elementary students, facilitating discussions that encourage critical thinking, and creating a stimulating virtual learning environment. You'll manage small classes focusing on problem-solving rather than rote memorization, ensuring that students remain interactive and enthusiastic throughout the course.

To qualify for the Virtual Elementary Math Teacher position at AoPS Academy, you need a bachelor's degree in a STEM field, with a master's degree being preferred. Demonstrated experience in teaching or tutoring at the elementary to middle school levels is also necessary. Experience working with advanced or gifted students in mathematics, particularly at the elementary level, is a strong plus. Proficiency with virtual teaching platforms like Zoom is required, but a formal teaching credential is not necessary.

In the Virtual Elementary Math Teacher role at AoPS Academy, you can expect to teach small classes, averaging around 12 students. This allows for a more personalized learning experience where each child can actively participate, receive tailored guidance, and thrive in a supportive environment.

The working hours for the Virtual Elementary Math Teacher at AoPS Academy are designed to fit an after-school and weekend enrichment model. Classes are scheduled late afternoon to evening between 4 PM ET and 10 PM ET on weekdays and from 10 AM ET to 9 PM ET on weekends, providing a wonderful flexibility for educators.

AoPS Academy offers an array of benefits for Virtual Elementary Math Teachers, including a competitive compensation rate of $30/hour, paid sick leave, a 401K retirement plan, eligibility for discretionary bonuses after two years, and discounts on classes and Beast Academy Online subscriptions. This creates a well-rounded package for educators committed to student excellence.

When answering this question, highlight specific strategies you use, such as using relatable examples, visual aids, and hands-on activities that resonate with young learners. Discuss your approach to breaking down difficult topics into smaller, more manageable pieces, and emphasize the importance of fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.

In your response, share your experiences teaching online. Discuss techniques such as maintaining student engagement through interactive tools, setting clear expectations for behavior, and using breakout sessions for group activities. Mention how you adapt your communication style for a virtual setting to ensure all students feel included and motivated.

When answering, provide examples of how you create opportunities for students to solve problems collaboratively or individually. Discuss the importance of asking open-ended questions that compel students to think deeply, and share any specific activities or curriculums you utilize to promote analytical thinking.

Detail your approach for differentiating instruction based on varying skill levels. Discuss how you identify students' needs through assessments and adapt your teaching methods accordingly. Emphasize your ability to provide additional challenges for advanced learners while offering support to those needing more assistance.

Focus on the significance of passion and enthusiasm for mathematics as it significantly impacts students' learning. Discuss various personal attributes such as patience, creativity, adaptability, and communication skills, explaining how these help create a positive learning environment that fosters student engagement.

Describe specific technologies you've effectively used, such as virtual whiteboards or interactive math programs. Comment on how these tools improve engagement and understanding, and provide an example of a lesson where technology was a pivotal component in your teaching approach.

Discuss your familiarity with teaching advanced students, including how you challenge them through differentiated tasks. Provide examples of your methods for keeping them engaged and encouraged, focusing on their unique needs and abilities to foster their love for math.

Explain how you utilize formative assessments, such as quizzes, class discussions, and one-on-one check-ins to gauge understanding. Highlight your ability to tweak your lesson plans based on the feedback you receive from assessments in real-time.

When answering this question, recount a specific lesson you adapted for online learning. Discuss challenges you encountered and how you used technology to enhance the lesson, ensuring all objectives were met while maintaining student engagement.

Describe the importance of creating a community atmosphere in your virtual classroom. Discuss strategies like group projects, peer reviews, and collaborative problem-solving activities that encourage students to work together while developing valuable social and academic skills.