Position Overview

Supervised by the Assistant Principal of Student Services, the Learning Specialist plays a unique role as a collaborator with teachers on various teams, as a family liaison, and as a small group and individual instructor of students with varying learning needs. Learning Specialists support every child in the grades they serve and foster deep connections with their colleagues and students. Successful Learning Specialists consistently help students achieve academically and socially: collecting, analyzing, and implementing data-based strategies for both the students on their caseload as well as students that have been identified as needing additional support. The Learning Specialist is in current possession of special education certification.

Core Competencies & Responsibilities

• Provide specially designed and/or supplemental instruction to support students with disabilities in the general education classroom
• Collaborate with general education teachers to design flexible services, promoting inclusion and utilizing combined expertise
• Use push-in or pull-out service models for direct and indirect services, targeting instruction for improved sensory, perceptual motor skills, language, cognition, and memory
• Develop, modify, and implement curriculum and assessments aligned with IEP and/or 504 plans
• Lead Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) meetings to assess student needs, collaborate with colleagues, and develop comprehensive intervention plans and manage the implementation of MTSS, ensuring alignment with the organization's goals and standards
• Actively engage students in rigorous, project-based, standard-aligned learning experiences
• Support the creation and implementation of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)
• Drive academic outcomes through data analysis, differentiated instruction, and support for diverse learner needs
• Plan, prepare, and implement lesson plans using various instructional strategies, differentiating for diverse student needs
• Use technology tools for instruction, planning, and communication to enhance student engagement
• Attend IEP meetings, ensuring compliance with SESIS expectations
• Assess student progress regularly and maintain accurate records for grading, progress monitoring, and communication
• Collaborate with colleagues, engage in professional learning opportunities, and actively participate in staff orientation and training
• Foster positive relationships with families, providing weekly communication touch points and involving them in the learning process
• Commit to reflective practice, responsiveness to feedback, and continuous professional growth

Qualifications

• New York State teaching certification in Students with Disabilities required
• Spanish language proficiency (preferred)
• Restorative Practitioner and/or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification or licensure (preferred)
• Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) certification (preferred)
• High energy level and a caring, engaging personality
• Unwavering commitment to the educational mission of the organization
• Dedication to providing students with an academically robust, inspiring, and joyful learning experience
• Strong competence in behavior management, instructional skills, oral and written communication, organizational skills, and interpersonal relations.
• Appreciation for character development in both children and adults
• Proficiency in leading students from diverse backgrounds
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work well in a team and build, monitor, and maintain efficient organizational systems
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment, flexible, able to work independently and take direction as needed
• Appreciation for the Classical liberal arts educational tradition (preferred)

The base pay range for this position is $69,000-$98,500 per year in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits. Pay may vary within the stated range, depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.