The Learning Specialist (Grades 7-12) is a full-time faculty position reporting to the division head and the Director of Learning Support for Grades 7-12. This position will collaborate with students, teachers, parents, and administrative leaders to ensure that each student is receiving the appropriate level of support. This individual will manage a caseload of their own, ensuring students receive the tools and support necessary to succeed. An ideal candidate will be familiar with recent research and development in educating students with learning differences.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Demonstrate the ability to communicate, motivate, and understand the academic and emotional needs of students
Work with the 7-12 Director of Learning Support to identify a caseload, learning needs, and meeting frequency for a cohort of students
Apply knowledge of learning disabilities, educational evaluations, and assistive technology.
Read and interpret neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing to create and update Individual Academic Plans (IAPs), and facilitate and assist in discussions related to supporting students with learning differences.
Demonstrate a thorough understanding of differentiated instructional strategies across the curriculum.
Deliver content and instruction to students by building strong relationships.
Support teachers to differentiate and meet a variety of learning needs in the classroom
Assist teachers with determining the effectiveness of interventions and accommodations.
Advise teachers on accommodations processes for school-wide assessments.
Support students in injury- and concussion-based Return to Learn protocols
Collaborate with the school counselors to support students with relevant social-emotional needs
Partner with the grade-level Deans and greater administrative team to deliver content related to best practices in learning through Advisory and assemblies
Work collaboratively with other teachers, parents, support staff, and members of the community
Run a weekly after-school program to support students’ executive function and best practices related to completing work outside of school
Communicate effectively with parents to discuss student progress and areas for growth
Advise a small group of Intermediate School students by developing meaningful relationships with them and supporting their academic and social-emotional growth.
Assume other responsibilities as assigned by the school.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in related field preferred.
At least 2 years prior experience in the field of learning support with a record of high achievement.
Experience with or understanding of using a coaching model is preferred.
Familiarity with neuropsychoeducational testing, individual academic plan processes, and reporting.
Effective communication skills that promote positive relationships with students, families and colleagues.
Strong work ethic and high level of integrity.
Familiarity with independent schools is preferred.
In striving to fulfill its mission, The Potomac School seeks many different voices, viewpoints, and backgrounds. We recognize that differences are a source of strength, and we know that everyone is enriched when each person's contributions and perspectives are valued.
The Potomac School is an independent K-12 day school located in McLean, Va. While we are a K-12 school, we are more accurately described as a K through lifetime experience. We nurture the development of our students as unique individuals and as contributing members of a vibrant learning community.
Our school comprises four distinct yet interconnected divisions, joined through a shared mission, integrated curriculum, and deeply rooted communal ties. We enjoy the beauty and natural resources of our 90-acre campus, our athletic fields, woods, streams, and ponds providing a rare and wonderful setting for each student's educational journey.
Mission: At The Potomac School, we believe that intellectual development, love of learning, and strength of character are complementary, and equally essential, educational goals. With a firm commitment to our core values and a rigorous academic program, we prepare students to lead lives of purpose, achievement, and generosity of spirit.