Learning Specialist/Special Educator (SY 26/27)

Learning Specialist/Special Educator (SY 26/27) Essex Westford School District

ESSEX MIDDLE SCHOOL

- Essex Junction, Vermont This job is also posted in Essex Westford School District Job Details

Job ID:

5688576

Application Deadline:

May 18, 2026 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time)

Posted:

Yesterday

Starting Date:

Jul 1, 2026 Job Description Our Essex Middle School has an opportunity for a full-time Learning Specialist beginning with the 2026-27 school year. The Learning Specialist works in collaboration with teachers, parents/caregivers, the student, and other professional and paraprofessional personnel to case manage, coordinate, and oversee the implementation of effective interventions for assigned students on IEP, 504, and EST plans. The position shall focus on literacy, math and behavior support services designed to enable assigned students to meet Vermont's learning expectations for students in the least restrictive environment. In addition, the Learning Specialist develops and evaluates Individual Education Programs (IEP), behavior plans, and specialized reading and math instruction, and provides comprehensive evaluation services with professional and technical assistance from the Co-Directors of Student Support Services, district-wide specialists, and other Learning Specialists within the building. We are looking for educators who believe that academic success is inextricably linked to social and emotional well-being. This role is ideal for candidates who possess a deep desire to support the "whole child" and who find fulfillment in navigating the complexities of behavioral and emotional needs. We highly recommend applying if you have: A Passion for

Connection:

A strong commitment to building authentic, trusting relationships with students who may struggle with traditional classroom expectations.

De-escalation & Regulation Expertise:

Experience or a strong interest in trauma-informed practices, restorative justice, and helping students develop self-regulation and coping strategies.

Behavioral Advocacy:

The ability to view "challenging behavior" as a form of communication and the patience to help students find more effective ways to express their needs.

Collaborative Spirit:

A desire to work closely with school counselors, behavioral interventionists, and families to create a consistent, supportive environment that prioritizes emotional safety alongside academic growth.

Resilience & Empathy:

A steadfast belief in the potential of every student, regardless of the behavioral or social-emotional hurdles they may currently face. Below is an outline of other qualifications being sought:

Required:

Valid Vermont Educator License with an endorsement in Special Education (or ability to obtain). EWSD is committed to considering out-of-state candidates who are eligible to hold a Vermont educator license but do not yet hold a license in this state. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in developing and implementing IEPs Strong understanding of early childhood development and early elementary curriculum Proficiency in evidence-based literacy and mathematics intervention strategies Experience with behavioral support planning and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Ability to administer and interpret academic and behavioral assessments Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills

Preferred:

Endorsement or coursework in Reading Specialist, Early Childhood Special Education, or related area Experience using MTSS frameworks and data-based decision-making Familiarity with Vermont's special education rules and regulations Training in specialized reading programs (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, Wilson, SPIRE) Experience supporting students with a variety of disabilities, including developmental delays and emotional/behavioral challenges For additional information, CLICK HERE for a copy of the full job description. Our district vision is: "Growing hearts and minds, for a better today and tomorrow: every day, every way, every one." EWSD is committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive environment. Successful candidates must be committed to working effectively with diverse community populations and are expected to strengthen such capacity if hired. Candidates with experience living or working in another country, the ability to fluently speak more than one language, and/or peace corp experience are encouraged to apply to help contribute to a diversity of thinking and grow our organizational practices. A copy of the collective bargaining agreement that covers this position can be found HERE, including insurance benefits, paid leave, and salary schedule details. EWSD conducts thorough screenings of all applicants being recommended for hire, which may include contacting references not listed on your application. Selected individuals are subject to criminal records background checks and child and adult abuse registry checks. Any offer of employment will be contingent upon acceptable results of these checks at the sole discretion of the Superintendent or his/her designee. Please click HERE for additional background check information.

Position Type:

Full-Time School Year

Salary:

$58,503 to $112,936 Per Year