Learning Specialist

University Prep Schools • Detroit, MI

5d

About The Position

The Learning Specialist (resource room teacher) provides specialized instruction to students with disabilities who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Instruction may take place individually or in groups within special education or general education settings. Working with each student’s primary team, the Learning Specialist helps organize, write, review, and monitor the programming and services outlined in student IEPs.

The role also involves assessing student needs and progress, developing and implementing IEPs, maintaining required records and compliance documentation, and collaborating with families, school staff, Student Development Department team members, and outside providers. The Learning Specialist supports students’ academic and functional needs, promotes family engagement, and contributes to a positive, culturally responsive learning environment.

Requirements

• Valid Michigan teaching certificate from an accredited educational program in special education.
• Experience planning lessons and providing specialized instruction to students with disabilities, or student-teaching experience working with students with disabilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of IDEA and MARSE rules and regulations.
• Ability to work with others to create comprehensive Individualized Education Plans.
• Proven success implementing record and case management systems.
• Willingness to collaborate with others within the UPrep Network.
• Highly developed organizational, planning, and time-management skills.
• Ability to follow through on simultaneous projects and tasks.
• Professional demeanor.
• Ability to work with families to improve educational outcomes for students.
• Ability to contribute to a positive, supportive environment.
• Ability to maintain knowledge of changing special education trends and best practices and apply that learning in schools.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction, assessments, and academic support to students with varying disabilities who need special education programming and services.
• Research, identify, obtain, and provide instructional materials that support students’ academic and functional needs.
• Conduct appropriate academic achievement assessments to identify student strengths and weaknesses for IEP development.
• Develop comprehensive IEPs addressing students’ academic and functional needs, with measurable goals and objectives that address learning gaps.
• Monitor programming and services for effectiveness and make changes to support student growth.
• Provide quarterly progress reports to parents or guardians and keep classroom teachers, parents, and school administrators informed of student progress.
• Complete required paperwork to maintain compliance with IDEA and MARSE.
• Maintain current knowledge of and comply with federal and state laws and regulations, especially those concerning people with disabilities.
• Collaborate with Student Development Department and school team members to address barriers to the educational process and support students, families, and the community.
• Promote family support for students’ learning experiences through culturally responsive understanding and competencies.
• Provide services that build on individual student strengths and maximize student participation in planning and directing their learning.
• Schedule services to minimize interference with core instruction.
• Confer with classroom teachers to develop strategies and interventions and assist with classroom accommodations and modifications.
• Develop and provide training and educational programs that address the educational institution’s goals and mission.
• Help students and families access formal and informal community or educational resources that support student goals.
• Collaborate with outside providers, when necessary, to coordinate services for students receiving services from outside agencies.
• Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of departmental, school-based, system, community, and statewide programs.
• Maintain accurate case records and documentation and meet required deadlines.
• Participate in professional development activities to improve knowledge and skills.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time