Andover School of Montessori is seeking an experienced Learning Specialist with a Master’s Degree in reading, learning differences, special education or similar field to work in a private school setting with pre-k through middle school students. The Learning Specialist should have experience with children who have language based learning disabilities and provide instructional support to students through offering organizational and time management strategies and teaching effective study skills. The Learning Specialist will work closely with teachers, Program Level Directors and Head of School to provide and help implement strategies and learning plans to meet the needs of the individual students.

To apply, email resume and cover letter to incoming Head of School, Barbara Orlowitz, borlowitz@andovermontessori.org.

Qualifications:

• Masters Degree in a field specializing in Reading, Learning or Special Education
• At least 3-5 years experience in an educational institution as a school reading/learning specialist or special educator
• Ability to communicate effectively (orally and in writing) and establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, faculty, staff, and outside professionals
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
• Broad knowledge of learning differences
• Training in Orton-Gillingham, Wilson Fundations or similar program desired
• Compatible with the Montesssori teaching philosophy and strength based approach to supporting student success

General Responsibilities: The Learning specialist will ensure that students’ individualized learning needs are identified and met. The Learning Specialist will work collaboratively with teachers, Program Level Directors, Head of School and parents to provide strategies and learning plans that best meet the needs of the students. 

Specific Responsibilities:

• Work with teachers, students and Program Level Directors to evaluate the individual academic needs of students who demonstrate a need for support intervention and determine the most appropriate support intervention
• Collaborate with teachers to discuss strategies and resources for students
• Support teachers in developing and administering progress monitoring systems that provide information on students’ progress in meeting benchmarks
• Oversee consistent implementation of learning strategies
• In collaboration with teaches and Program Level Directors, write and follow up on individual learning plans for students  
• Work closely with Program Level Directors to review student progress on a regular basis
• Maintain close communication with individual classroom teachers and parents regarding student progress and supports in place, including parent/teacher conferences and program level team meetings
• Facilitate skills classes that focus on executive function
• Provide strategies to teachers to support a differentiated approach to reading instruction
• Conduct small reading groups (tier 2 - 2 times per week)
• Help students gain self-awareness of their learning style, needs and strategies for academic success
• Administer DIBELS three times a year to K, 1st & 2nd year students

School Culture:

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to professional ethics
• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to Montessori education; model the Montessori values of grace, courtesy, and respect in visible daily actions
• Demonstrate commitment to competent communications and conflict resolution efforts across the school community
• Be an ambassador for ASM at all times

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office workplace environment
• Limited physical effort required
• Limited exposure to physical risk.

It is expected that all staff will function as self-directed members in a team effort. All activities and performances should meet appropriate professional standards and adhere to the philosophy and mission of the Andover School of Montessori.

About Andover School of Montessori

Andover School of Montessori is an independent day school in Andover, MA. ASM serves students in preschool, elementary school, and middle school. We value collaboration, creativity, curiosity, diversity, and integrity while providing a caring, engaging and respectful environment. We strive for excellence and are committed to preparing the next generation of leaders for our ever-changing world.

Connections working at Andover School of Montessori