Position Overview: The Learning Specialist at WSG, a faith-based school, is pivotal in fostering a culture of academic proficiency and supporting high-quality instruction across all grade levels. This position involves leading student interventions on the tier 3 level, teaching reading groups, providing guidance to Reading/ Language Arts teachers, and communicating with all teachers. The Learning Specialist will collaborate with educators to ensure curriculum alignment, implement effective instructional strategies, and promote student success.
Key Responsibilities:
- Teaching and Instruction:
- Instruct small group interventions which can include but are not limited to pull-out sessions, grading and assessing small classroom groups, and providing additional support.
- Develop impactful, individualized lesson plans implementing research-based interventions that align with our educational standards and Student Support Plans.
- Model effective teaching strategies and goal-setting for improved practice, incorporating culturally responsive content and trauma-informed pedagogy.
- Professional Responsibilities
- Support teachers in educational best practices, including selecting and executing book studies across all grades.
- Stay current with best practices in special education and learning support.
- Work with the Instructional Coach to develop common practices and cultivate a strong culture of literacy at WSG.
- Attend Student Support Team meetings and provide regular updates on student progress and performance.
- Adhere to the established teaching schedule.
- Submit weekly lesson plans for all lessons instructed using the adapted WSG lesson plan template.
- Monitor student progress and consistently collect data on student progress.
- Create and maintain student portfolios or folders that contain work samples and data pertaining to Student Support Plan goals.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student assessments, progress reports, and interventions.
- Reflect and model WSG values and attitudes as a Catholic School in interactions with students, teachers, families, and members of the public.
- Follow the policies and procedures of WSG as described in the WSG Personnel Handbook, including such items as being on time, professional dress, and maintaining appropriate records and reports.
- Demonstrate high standards of professionalism, including legal and professional ethics in interactions with students, faculty, staff, administrators, and members of the public.
- Other duties as assigned
- Family Communication and Collaboration:
- Communicate regularly with families to discuss student progress, goals, and support strategies.
- Collaborate with families to develop home-based strategies that complement school-based interventions.
- Serve as a resource for families seeking information and support related to their child's learning needs.
- Advocacy and Consultation:
- Advocate for the needs of students within the school community.
- Consult with outside agencies, specialists, and resources to support students' educational and developmental needs.
- Collaborate with school administrators to ensure that policies and practices promote inclusive education and support the success of all students.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Education, Reading/Literacy, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
- Certification as a Reading Specialist or Reading/Literacy Teacher preferred.
- Experience teaching reading and math at the elementary or middle school level.
- Strong understanding of literacy development and instructional strategies.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Additional Information:
- This is a full-time position based at the Washington School for Girls, serving grades 3 through 8.
- The Learning Specialist / Literacy Lead will report to the Manager of Student Support and collaborate closely with fellow educators to support a comprehensive academic program.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Employer: WSG is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $50,000.00 - $77,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- After school
- Monday to Friday
Experience:
- Microsoft Powerpoint: 1 year (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Washington, DC 20020 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Washington, DC 20020: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person