Upper School Learning Specialist (Grades 4-8)

Montessori School of Denver (MSD), located in beautiful Colorado, is seeking an Upper School Learning Specialist (Grades 4-8) for the 2026-2027 school year. Job Overview The Upper School Learning Specialist serves as a key academic interventionist, providing targeted, evidence-based support in literacy and mathematics for students in grades 4 through 8. This role is designed for a systems-thinker who can bridge the gap between assessment data and classroom instruction, ensuring that every student has the tools necessary to reach their full potential within our inclusive educational environment. This is a full-time, on-campus position based in Denver, CO. About Our School MSD provides an engaging, empowering, and sound Montessori educational program for students ages 2-14. Our school is accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the Association of Colorado Independent Schools (ACIS), and the American Montessori Society (AMS)[1]. Founded in 1964, MSD is the oldest Montessori school in the Denver metro area. In 2015, MSD completed a comprehensive multi-million-dollar expansion plan to complement its existing facilities. A new Arts and Athletics Center, enhanced outdoor learning and play environments, a new Toddler Village, updated Middle School space, a thriving Urban Farm and one-of-a-kind Vertical Farm, and a state-of-the-art Science and Innovation Tower were added to provide an exceptional, experiential educational environment for all of our students. Today, MSD is building on that strong foundation through our current capital campaign, an ambitious investment in the future of our campus and community. This next phase will strengthen and expand our Lower Elementary program, enhance learning environments, and ensure that our facilities continue to reflect the innovation, excellence, and authenticity of a Montessori education. Through this campaign, we are deepening our commitment to preparing students not only for academic success, but for meaningful, engaged lives. Key Responsibilities Direct Academic Intervention Instructional Delivery: Design and implement high-impact, small-group interventions in math and literacy for students in the 4th–8th grade cohort. Targeted Support: Utilize evidence-based strategies to address specific learning gaps, including structured literacy approaches and conceptual mathematical frameworks (such as "Low Floor, High Ceiling" tasks). Executive Functioning: Integrate organizational and study skill support within academic interventions to foster student independence and accountability. Assessment, Data Analysis & Systems Thinking Assessment Management: Coordinate and support the delivery of standardized and formative assessments across the Upper School. Data-Driven Instruction: Analyze assessment results to identify trends, measure growth, and pivot instructional strategies accordingly. Systems Application: Apply systems thinking to evaluate the efficacy of current intervention protocols and suggest improvements to the broader learning support framework. Collaboration & Communication Learning Support Plans : Manage documentation of student accommodations. Teacher Partnership : Collaborate closely with classroom lead teachers to differentiate core curriculum and ensure intervention goals align with classroom expectations. Family Engagement : Act as a primary point of contact for families of students receiving support regarding student progress, facilitating meetings to discuss growth, challenges, and home-school alignment. Team Integration : Participate actively in multi-disciplinary team meetings (including administrators and mental health staff) to provide a holistic view of student academic needs. Transition Planning : Facilitate the transition of learning support plans for students transitioning to middle and high school. Community Involvement : Contribute to the school community through participation in faculty meetings, committees, carlines, recess duty, etc. Professional Leadership & Best Practices Continuous Learning: Remain "in the know" regarding neuro-affirming, up-to-date, special education, and pedagogical best practices. Professional Development: Serve as a resource for faculty and families by sharing strategies related to differentiated instruction and inclusive classroom practices. Ethical Practice: Maintain meticulous records of student progress and interventions, ensuring all documentation meets school and regulatory standards. Qualifications & Values Educational Background: Master’s degree in Special Education, Learning Disabilities, or a related field (preferred). Montessori training in upper elementary or adolescent (preferred) Experience: Proven track record of providing successful math and literacy interventions specifically for the 4th–8th grade age range. Alignment: A deep commitment to the school’s mission, fostering a culture of respect, student agency, and academic excellence. Skills: Proficiency in analyzing complex data sets and translating them into actionable instructional plans. Work Environment & Physical Demands Flexibility: Must be able to navigate a dynamic school environment and engage effectively with students in various settings (classrooms, small-group rooms, and common spaces). Digital Fluency: Ability to facilitate digital learning tools and assessment platforms efficiently. Reports to: Director of Student Support Department: Student Support Supervises/Supports: N/A FLSA Status: Exempt Employee[2], Number of Days Paid – 190 Compensation: Salary range starting at $50,000 Montessori School of Denver offers an excellent compensation package for employees working 25+ hours/week including paid time off, health, dental, vision, 403(b) with matching and more; wide-ranging opportunities for professional development; and a talented and dedicated staff of teaching professionals and supportive administrators. Successful candidates will join a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking teaching community of over 90 individuals. Montessori School of Denver does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability. Montessori School of Denver’s website (montessoridenver.org) to learn more about the school and its programs. To Apply Please complete our application and upload your resume here. We look forward to hearing from you! [1] Accredited with non-traditional Montessori age grouping at the Elementary II and Secondary levels. [2] Exempt employee is not eligible for overtime pay. #J-18808-Ljbffr