Academic Specialist Special Education

Job Summary

Acts as a strategic collaborative member of the Academic team in support of the AACPS Strategic plan throughout the school year. The role encompasses curriculum, instruction, assessment, professional learning for all stakeholders, data analysis, and planning and execution of county-wide events to positively impact student achievement.

Title:

Specialist – Academic (12‑month contract). Provides direct support to schools, ensuring instruction aligns with best practices for all students.

• Flexible schedules
• Evenings/Nights
• Extended hours
• Outside of normal business hours
• Summer hours
• Weekends

• Communicate the district’s philosophy, goals, and expectations of curriculum, instruction, and assessment to school staff and the community.
• Assist teachers and school leaders with implementation and enhancement of a comprehensive academic program aligned to state standards.
• Facilitate collaborative planning with school leadership and teams to enhance teacher capacity and improve curriculum and instruction.
• Observe instructional practices, provide targeted feedback, and assist with data‑driven decisions.
• Lead professional development initiatives for teachers and school teams, modeling best instructional practices.
• Support the coordinator in curriculum writing and assessment development, serving as a curriculum lead writer and monitoring sub‑group teams.
• Stay current with new ideas, programs, and trends in education.
• Collaborate with other offices and programs to ensure quality curricula and professional development.
• Serve on committees, councils, and representative bodies, including professional, civic, and interagency groups.
• Plan and assist with logistics for county‑wide events including evening and summer meetings and workshops.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

These qualifications represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the essential duties of the position.

• Master’s degree in a related field of education from a regionally accredited institution.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge and skills.

• Four (4) years of successful classroom teaching experience.
• One (1) year as a school‑based teacher leader (preferred).
• One (1) year of professional development experience for adult learners (preferred).

• Knowledge of school organization, curriculum, teaching techniques, current trends, research, and instructional materials.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities as an instructional staff member.
• Ability to collaborate with grade levels and disciplines to develop comprehensive programs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with colleagues, staff, students, and parents.
• Proficiency in data analysis, assessment, curriculum development, and building teacher capacity.
• Ability to integrate technology into instruction and professional development (e.g., document cameras, projectors, Smart Boards).
• Effective communication and collaboration with diverse populations.
• Proficient use of business technology applications such as Microsoft Office Suite.

• Active professional educator certificate/license in the assigned content area.
• Active driver’s license (Class
  
  C) and reliable transportation.

• Travel required to conduct board business as part of the position.
• Personal vehicle usage.

• Train employees.
• Direct the work of employees.
• Provide performance feedback.
• Plan and instruct employees in technical methods.
• Perform the same type of work as employees.