Early Childhood Learning Specialist

Riverdale YM-YWHA•Bronx, NY

17h•Onsite

About The Position

Riverdale Y is a community and cultural center located in the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx. We provide educational, recreational, cultural, and wellness programming for children and adults of all ages. The Riverdale Y is rooted in universal values where diversity is celebrated and all are welcome to participate, engage, and connect. We are a sanctuary to think, learn, and grow, an open door to creativity, fitness, and fun, and a catalyst for change and transformation. Riverdale Y is seeking to hire individuals who are enthusiastic about tackling challenges with creativity and ambition. Our organization provides a diverse range of career opportunities, spanning education, social services, facilities management, senior care, accounting, marketing, and much more. We’d be honored for you to make your career here! SCOPE: The Learning Specialist will operate as a part of the Early Childhood Center team to support five classrooms of children two to five years old by collaborating with teachers, supporting families and advocating for educational services through Early Intervention and the Committee on Preschool Education. The Learning Specialist will report to the Director of Early Childhood. This is two-day-a-week, 8:00AM-1:00PM position, in-person position in Riverdale.

Requirements

Masters in Early Childhood Special Education and NYS certification birth-second grade or working towards completion of a Masters
Prior experience as an early childhood special education teacher, director or Learning Specialist.
Excellent writer and oral communicator
Project warmth to families and teachers, as well as confidence and a high level of preparation in advocacy meetings.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with classroom teachers to develop and refine differentiated instructional strategies for students with identified or suspected learning needs.
Support teachers to identify children with learning differences through classroom observation
Support families to increase understanding of the child’s needs and advocate for educational services.
Consult with teachers and staff on best practices in learning support, including classroom accommodations and inclusive teaching strategies.
Maintain detailed records of student progress, interventions, and meetings with families.
Participate in key team meetings (e.g. EI/CPSE discussions)
Provide small group or one-on-one interventions as needed
Facilitate professional development for teachers on evidence-based practices, differentiated instruction, and inclusive education.
Serve as a resource for teachers and staff on best practices in special education and learning support.