Educational Support Specialist

Educational Support Specialist

The Educational Support Specialist is a dynamic and multi-faceted position responsible for supporting student placement, assisting in classroom instruction, and contributing to school-wide assistance efforts. The role involves serving as a substitute teacher, collaborating with faculty and staff, providing academic support, and participating in the coordination of educational services. The Educational Support Specialist will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of various educational programs, fostering an inclusive learning environment, and supporting the academic growth of all students.

Required Qualifications:

• Must have the authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986.
• Valid ADE Substitute Certificate
• Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card for educators through The Arizona Department of Education.

Key Responsibilities, Skills & Knowledge:

• Assume responsibility for classroom management and instruction in the absence of the primary teacher.
• Deliver lesson plans effectively while maintaining a productive learning environment.
• Provide individualized support for students as needed to ensure understanding of instructional materials.
• Adapt teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of students in various grade levels.
• Assist in the placement of students in appropriate academic programs and resources based on academic performance and needs.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and the Curriculum Director/Principal to monitor student progress and make recommendations for adjustments in placement.
• Provide support for students requiring additional interventions or accommodations.
• Serve as an active member of the School-Wide Assistance Team, working with educators and support staff to address student needs across multiple domains (academic, behavioral, social).
• Help coordinate and implement individualized support plans for students requiring additional assistance.
• Contribute to the development of school-wide initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and fostering a positive learning environment.
• Support classroom teachers in planning and implementing lessons, managing student behavior, and maintaining an organized classroom.
• Assist in the preparation and delivery of instructional materials.
• Collaborate with other school personnel, including counselors, special education staff, and administrators, to ensure comprehensive support for all students.
• Assist in gathering and maintaining student data related to placement, academic progress, and interventions.
• Provide input on student performance and other relevant information to the Curriculum Director and/or Principal for analysis and decision-making.
• Assist in tracking the effectiveness of various educational strategies and interventions.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills relevant to supporting K-12 education.
• Stay informed about best practices in education, including instructional strategies, student support services, and curriculum development.
• Meet any additional specific job requirements as indicated by the supervisor.
• Assist other personnel as may be required to support them in the completion of their work activities.

Skill, Knowledge, and Ability Requirements:

Skills are required to perform multiple technical tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills to meet changing job conditions. Specific skills required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job. Knowledge is required to read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or facilitate group discussions; and solve practical problems. Specific knowledge is required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job. Ability is required to gather, collate, and/or classify data; and consider a wide variety of factors. Flexibility is required to work with others in a variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of types of job-related equipment. In working with others, problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires analysis based on organizational objectives; and problem solving with equipment is significant. Specific abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include adapting to changing work priorities; communicating with diverse groups; meeting deadlines & schedules; setting priorities; working as part of a team; and working with constant & sustained interruptions.

Physical Requirements:

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; climbing and balancing; stooping, kneeling, crouching, and significant fine finger dexterity.

Working Environment:

The working environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Non-Discrimination Policy:

The Sacaton Elementary School District #18 Governing Board is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in relation to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, and disability. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning staff members, students, the public, educational programs and services, and individuals with whom the Governing Board does business.