As an independent school we are able to structure our support system with flexibility and according to our institutional values and objectives. Starting at the level of the student, Learning Support Specialists gather data from one-on-one and small group meetings with identified students, and use the data to inform discussions with teachers, counselors, and the grade level dean(s) about the design and implementation of appropriate classroom-level supports and instructional strategies that facilitate the participation of all students in the rich learning experiences that embody a Punahou education.  

To achieve this, the Learning Support Specialist will:

• Be familiar with and interpreting psychoeducational evaluations to facilitate individual student learning profiles and with gathering of data that aids in the creation of individual student profiles.
• Use one-on-one meetings with students when appropriate/necessary to collect data, support learning strategies, the use of assistive technologies and any other academic accommodations, and to support the work that teachers are doing with individual students
• Work with students individually or in small groups to provide short-term direct interventions for students with diagnoses or being monitored for further evaluation
• Partner with Teachers, Counselors and the Grade Level Dean(s) to develop comprehensive strategies and support plans for students’ learning needs.
• Serve as a liaison with parents to increase understanding of student profiles and the process for implementing the support plan.
• Collaborate with instructional teams in the design and implementation of pedagogical strategies tailored to individual student needs by identifying multiple pathways/opportunities for students to access and demonstrate learning
• Provide feedback to teaching teams, deans, and counselors, and assist in adjusting and modifying academic supports and instructional strategies as needed for students with diagnosed learning differences.
• Update and maintain documentation/information regarding students’ learning needs; ensure pertinent history and updates are available and shared with the grade level team
• Provide faculty coaching in classrooms and professional development to ensure the learning needs of all students are being met through strategic design.
• Assist parents and students in preparing for transitions.
• Support efforts to bridge student support across the K-12 campus.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field. Masters degree in Education or related field, preferrably in Special Education.
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• Three (3) years of recent classroom/instruction experience, preferably in a private or independent school.  Experience in Special Education or Learning Support preferred including working knowledge of current trends; neuroscience of learning; Mind, Brain and Education; UDL; assistive technology.
• Knowledge of, and experience in, the use and interpretation of various forms of student assessment.  
• Knowledge of child development with experience in learning and developmental differences.
• Demonstrated background and/or interest in curriculum development with assistive technology integration.
• Ability to provide for learning differences, especially dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, as well as a deep knowledge base regarding ADHD and Executive Functioning issues.
• Ability to model and support the use of effective and age-appropriate instructional and assessment strategies in the classroom.
• Specialized knowledge and application of current educational and curricular approaches to learning differences and classroom instruction.
• Inclination, ability, and desire to work closely with parents.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with teachers in service of students.
• The ability and willingness to learn enthusiastically as a member of a Professional Learning Community, and to connect with local, national, and global Professional Learning Network.
• Models and implements a collaborative and consultative approach.
• An ability to see "the system" and to navigate "the parts".
• Strong knowledge of Google Docs and Google Calendar
• Excellent leadership qualities which include the ability to collaborate and work effectively with all levels of the systems within Punahou School. Excellent written and oral communication skills.  The ability to organize time and work effectively.  Strong analytical skills and the ability to exercise good judgment. This position also requires strong motivation, initiative, attention to detail, and flexibility when required.

About Punahou School

Punahou School nurtures the individuality of each child within a vibrant K – 12 school community that celebrates diversity, inspires excellence and connects students for life. Located in Honolulu, Hawai`i, Punahou is the largest coeducational, independent K – 12 school on a single campus in the United States. Students at Punahou have unparalleled opportunities to cultivate their unique interests and talents under the guidance of attentive and caring teachers. Rigorous academics, robust programs in athletics and the arts, and an array of co-curricular opportunities offer an integrated, 21st-century education for the whole child. Students exemplify the diversity and strength of Hawai`i and reflect the School’s commitment to providing robust, need-based financial aid. When students graduate from Punahou, they join a network of 30,000 alumni spanning the globe. Beyond excellent scholars, the School seeks to develop engaged global citizens who can strengthen their communities.

Connections working at Punahou School