Middle School Learning Specialist (grades 5-8)
Middle School Learning Specialist (grades 5-8)
The Nightingale-Bamford School seeks a full-time Middle School Learning Specialist (grades 5–8). The Middle School Learning Specialist must have strong knowledge of learning differences and will contribute to the coordination of student support services.
This position works closely with the Middle School Division Head, the Director of Learning Support, school counselors, classroom teachers, parents, and outside professionals. The Learning Specialist supports middle school students with executive functioning, reading and writing strategies, organization, and study skills; provides individual and small-group instruction as appropriate; and serves as a resource for faculty.
The ideal candidate is a dedicated educator who provides individualized academic support to students. The Learning Specialist works closely with students, teachers, and parents to develop learning strategies tailored to each student’s learning profile and to support their academic growth. This individual should demonstrate an understanding of early adolescent development and effective teaching methods for a range of learning styles and aptitudes. The ideal candidate will have excellent listening and observational skills, an empathetic mindset, and a collaborative approach.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE (but are not limited to):
- Teach two, year-long, study skills classes in small groups.
- Assist teachers in addressing students’ varying learning needs and supporting their efforts to help students succeed
- Identify students who may benefit from learning support and guide families regarding evaluation, support, and accommodations
- Read and interpret psychoeducational evaluations and summarize key findings for faculty use
- Develop and maintain individual learning profiles and support plans; ensure they are current and effectively implemented
- Provide direct support to students through individual and small-group sessions focused on executive functioning, organization, study skills, and self-advocacy
- Coordinate communication among teachers, families, and outside providers; help facilitate meetings as needed
- Support the implementation of classroom accommodations and learning strategies across subject areas
- Assist in coordinating outside tutors and specialists when appropriate
- Write semester progress reports and maintain contact with families through conferences, as well as by phone and email correspondence.
- Assist with managing and proctoring standardized tests in Middle School
- Contribute to faculty professional development related to learning differences and instructional strategies
- Participate in grade-level, division, and department meetings
- Maintain clear documentation and communication protocols related to student support
- Take on additional school responsibilities as assigned
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Undergraduate or graduate degree in Special Education or a related field
- At least two years of experience working with students with learning differences
- Strong knowledge of learning differences and evidence-based intervention strategies
- Ability to interpret diagnostic and psychoeducational evaluations
- Experience supporting executive functioning and study skills development in adolescents
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Collaborative, flexible, and solution-oriented approach
- Demonstrated cultural competence and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Empathy, patience, and a student-centered mindset
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with students, families, and colleagues
SALARY
In compliance with NYC’s Pay Transparency Act, this position's annual salary range is $80,000 - $115,000. When extending an offer, Nightingale considers factors such as (but not limited to) the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, and market and organizational considerations.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should apply by submitting a cover letter and resume online at https://www.nightingale.org/careers.
ABOUT THE NIGHTINGALE-BAMFORD SCHOOL
Founded by two bold, visionary educators in 1920, The Nightingale-Bamford School’s mission is to inspire girls to go beyond barriers. Tied to this mission is a broader vision of students who are joyful learners who have the intellectual depth and courage to be critical thinkers, compassionate citizens, and agents of their own lives. Nightingale educates girls’ minds and hearts and, in so doing, infuses their lives with meaningful relationships, teaching them to value difference as a means of growth and empowering them to question the status quo with confidence, empathy, resilience, and reason. Nightingale is deeply committed to cultivating a community rooted in principles of belonging and inclusion, the foundations of excellent teaching and learning. We expect all community members to engage thoughtfully and responsibly in this work.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
It is the policy of the School to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, military status, marital status, familial status, caregiver status, predisposing genetic characteristics, actual or perceived domestic violence victim status, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The School’s employment practices and decisions adhere to the principles of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity.
The School does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable law, including, but not limited to, with respect to recruiting, interviewing, hiring, staffing, training, promotions, compensation practices, employee benefits, school-administered programs, discipline, and termination of employment. The School maintains zero tolerance for violations of this policy and expects all employees to abide by and support this policy without reservation.