Learning Support Specialist Position Available In Orange, North Carolina

Learning Support Specialist Pinewoods Montessori School 109 Millstone Drive, Hillsborough, NC 27278 Pinewoods Montessori School seeks caring professional to serve as Learning Support Specialist for the 2025/2026 School Year. The Learning Support Specialist (LSS) is a 10-month faculty position who reports directly to the Head of School. The LSS serves as a resource to the faculty, children, and their parents to identify individual learning needs of children, implement strategies and/or interventions to address those needs, and to shepherd the Individual Learning Support (ILS) process. While previous experience in Montessori education is valued, it is not required. We have resources to support and mentor new faculty in the understanding and practice of Montessori pedagogical principles. All that is needed is a desire and commitment to personal and professional growth.

The Learning Support Specialist:

Oversees the ILS process from initiation of the referral, observation and data gathering, development of the ILS plan, referral for outside support services, interpretation of educational and therapeutic evaluations, and when appropriate, implementation of recommended accommodations and modifications. Uses appropriate assessment tools to identify learning challenges, modifications and/or strategies, and potential need for outside support. At times, works directly with children to assess learning needs, implement learning strategies and evaluate learning progress. Supports the classroom guides to identify teaching modification and strategies to implement in the classroom environment for children with identified learning differences or additional developmental needs. Assists the classroom guides as needed with parent communication regarding their child’s needs and progress, e.g., parent/teacher conferences and biannual progress notes. In collaboration with the classroom guides, responds to parent questions and concerns in a timely way characterized by mutual respect and good will. Develops and maintains partnerships with local educational and developmental service providers such as speech, occupational and physical therapist, academic tutors, and counselors, etc., to assist Pinewoods families when seeking such services for their children. Maintains an inventory of materials needed for teaching/learning modifications, e.g., weighted vest, hand strengtheners, mirrors, balance balls, sensitizing materials, etc. Secures and maintains all confidential ILS records. Submits ILS records during the year as requested by the Head of school or their designee. Oversees yearly standardized testing and provides guidance for testing accommodations and proctoring support for children with learning differences. Establishes positive relationships with students which, while recognizing the differing roles of adult and child, are characterized by mutual respect and good will. Always provides for the children’s safety and physical well-being. Supervises children as needed in the execution of emergency response plans. Protects the peace and privacy of the children at work. Reports any and all accidents and incidents involving a child immediately. Notifies the Head of School immediately of personal or professional difficulties with children, parents, or staff. Assists the school’s leadership in developing and implementing parent information sessions, as requested. Collaborates with colleagues and the school’s leadership in the design and implementation of curriculum within the context of the school’s overall program and Mission. Assists with other projects, programs and planning as assigned or requested by the head of school and/or his or her designee. Attends staff meetings, annual staff retreat, or any special meeting(s) as requested by the head of school and seeks out and reviews minutes from meetings not attended. Initiates growth and change in their own intellectual and professional development, seeking out conferences, courses, and other opportunities to learn. Participates in the establishment and maintenance of an atmosphere of collegial support and adherence to professional standards. Adheres to AMS guidelines and professional standards as a member school, for the purpose of maintaining quality and excellence. Models integrity, curiosity, responsibility, creativity, and respect for all persons as well as an appreciation for racial, cultural, and gender issues and diversity.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$45,000.00 – $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Life insurance Retirement plan

Schedule:

Monday to

Friday Work Location:

In person