FTE Gifted Specialist (.FTE Hopi ES and .Cherokee ES

1.0 FTE Gifted Specialist (.5 FTE Hopi ES and .5 Cherokee ES)

Starting Date: Jul 27, 2026

PAY GRADE: Per Salary Schedule

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

POSITION OBJECTIVE:

The role of the Gifted Specialist is two-fold. The Specialist serves as the content replacement teacher for the identified gifted learners in 3rd‑5th grade for Math and 4th‑5th grade for Reading. Additionally, the specialist provides guidance and support to the cluster and regular classroom teachers on campus, supporting differentiated learning opportunities as needed.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: (Representative sample)

• Possess a deep understanding of learning theory, including the unique characteristics of gifted children, their social‑emotional needs, and fostering creativity to maximize talent development.
• Demonstrate exemplary classroom instruction using gifted teaching strategies.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of differentiation strategies and model these strategies across content areas.
• Show a growth mindset and proactively advocate for gifted learners and teachers through coaching.
• Understand basic instructional coaching principles.
• Develop differentiated curriculum to meet student needs.
• Coach teachers in creating appropriate and authentic assessment activities supporting differentiated and integrated approaches.
• Collaborate with instructional staff, school personnel, parents, and community resources to improve student outcomes and meet classroom objectives aligned with the school improvement plan.
• Provide counseling to students to improve performance, health, problem‑solving, and personal issues.
• Employ pedagogical approaches that engage learners and address individual requirements.
• Participate in meetings (staff, district, IEPs, 504s, etc.) to convey and gather required information.
• Respond to inquiries from teachers, parents, administrators, etc., to resolve issues and provide direction.
• Work under limited supervision using standardized practices and methods; may utilize resources from other units.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Minimum two years of experience teaching gifted students (pull‑out, cluster, or self‑contained).
• Experience using data‑driven decision‑making to improve instruction.
• Training and experience in instructional strategies and planning for Grades 6‑8.

LICENSING REQUIREMENTS:

• Standard Professional Elementary, K‑8 certificate from AZ Department of Education with Gifted and SEI endorsements.
• Valid IVP fingerprint clearance card from the Department of Public Safety.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Read technical information and compose documents or facilitate discussions.
• Apply relevant codes, policies, regulations, laws; know age‑appropriate activities, lesson plan requirements, stages of development, and behavioral management strategies.

SKILLS:

• Perform complex technical tasks and adapt to changing job descriptions.
• Apply assessment instruments; operate standard office equipment and software; teach Arizona State standards; prepare and maintain accurate records.

ABILITY:

• Schedule activities, meetings, and events.
• Gather, collate, classify data and use job‑related equipment.
• Show flexibility working with others across circumstances.
• Interpret data, analyze issues, and create action plans.
• Establish and maintain constructive relationships, adapt to changing priorities, maintain confidentiality, exhibit tact and patience, and work flexible hours.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Positions require reaching, standing, walking, finger dexterity, grasping, speaking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Medium work:
Exert up to 10 lbs occasionally or negligible force regularly; rated Light Work if heavier exertion is required while mostly seated.

NOTE: The above job description represents key responsibilities; specific assignments may vary based on business needs.

Return to Work retirees will have an hourly rate approximately 9% lower than listed below without falling below minimum wage.

Position Type:
Full-Time
Salary: $49,847 to $74,358 Per Year