Learning Specialist - FTE

Learning Specialist

Position provides instructional activities and lessons to a wide variety of students with special needs (K-12) whose education needs are primarily the result of academic, social, emotional and behavioral challenges. Assesses each student's individual academic and behavioral needs, individualizes the regular K-12 curriculum to each student and develops IEPs as necessary. Activities and lessons reflect state standards, district curricula, lesson objectives, student academic achievement goals, behavior plans, and/or IEPs.

Maintains a safe and productive classroom/resource room environment. Consults with district behavioral staff and outside agencies to support student goals. Duties are performed under risk of infection and personal injury.

Essential duties of this position include the following tasks. Employees in this position perform some or all of the following tasks. Other duties may be assigned at any time:

• Presents lessons and activities, individually and in groups, using a variety of visual and auditory methods and kinetic activities.
• Uses electronic devices and media is appropriate based upon student needs, abilities and maturity levels.
• Regularly uses oral, written and electronic communications to other staff members, administrators, students and parents/guardians regarding student behavior and student progress toward individual education objectives/goals.
• Communicates with outside agencies as necessary and as part of due process hearing procedures.
• Trains and monitors education paraprofessionals (SEAs) regarding student academic and behavioral goals, daily classroom activities, and specific recordkeeping requirements.
• Schedules SEAs and adjusts delegated tasks as necessary.
• Observes, evaluates and refers students who need additional services and support.
• Adapts instructional activities and lessons for students with behavior plans and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Demonstrates knowledge and skill in applying conflict management and resolution techniques.
• Participates in screening and assessing students for special needs eligibility, services and placement in various district programs.
• Confers with classroom teachers and education paraprofessionals and provides information and appropriate instructional materials, as needed or requested.
• Schedules eligible students for specially-designed instruction.
• Designs and implements individual Behavioral Support Plans.
• Writes Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in conjunction with IEP teams.
• Monitors individual student progress towards IEP goals and requirements.
• Maintains all federal, state and district-required records and reports and ensures records and reports are accurate and contain required content.
• Consults with classroom teachers and SEAs to provide assistance for students completing modified assignments or other accommodations for high school academic work.
• Help students identify realistic academic, transition and vocational goals.
• Confers with guidance counselors and classroom teachers to monitor individual student credits earned towards graduation.
• Works in professional collaborative groups with other teachers on issues related to implementing effective content instruction and assessment.
• Communicates regularly with students and parents/guardians about academic performance.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of all district policies and procedures.
• Maintains consistent, daily and punctual attendance.

Non-essential duties of this position include the following tasks. Employees in this position perform some or all of these tasks. Other duties may be assigned at any time:

• Operates various office equipment including audio visual equipment/devices, telephones and photocopy machines.
• Attends in-service trainings, staff meetings and other meetings including SET and IEP meetings, as assigned.
• Attends professional growth activities related to job responsibilities.
• Serves on building and district committees and councils as assigned.
• Communicates information about district, school and/or departmental policies and procedures to students, staff, parents and patrons.
• Serves as liaison with community agencies that may provide ancillary services.
• Supervises students on school grounds, on field trips and at various school functions.
• Reports issues to the principal and the appropriate authorities including safety, sanitary and fire hazards, vandalism, thefts and errant wildlife.

Other requirements:

• Consistently follows all applicable federal and state laws and all district policies, rules and supervisor directions.
• Observes ergonomics of sedentary office work including placement of computers and monitors, and sitting alignment.
• Observes proper lifting techniques and other strategies to avoid accidents and personal injury while performing job duties.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory responsibilities:

All school employees have some responsibility for supervising students and assisting in maintaining a safe environment.

Qualifications:

To perform this job…