Academic Support Specialist

Academic Support Specialist (MAA@ NB) SY 26-27 Overview The Academic Support Specialist provides flexible instructional and classroom support to ensure continuity of high-quality teaching and learning within a secure juvenile detention school. This position serves as an instructional partner to both general education and special education teachers and functions as the school\'s primary in-house substitute teacher. The Academic Support Specialist helps maintain instructional continuity during teacher absences, supports differentiated instruction, reinforces positive student behavior, and assists in creating a safe, structured, and trauma-informed learning environment. Due to the unique nature of a juvenile detention setting, the Academic Support Specialist must demonstrate flexibility, strong classroom management skills, the ability to build positive relationships with students, and a commitment to educational equity and restorative practices. Responsibilities Classroom Instructional Support : Provide instructional support in classrooms across all content areas and grade levels. Assist teachers in delivering standards-aligned instruction through small-group, individualized, and whole-class support. Reinforce academic concepts and provide targeted interventions based on student needs. Support implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), accommodations, and modifications under the direction of certified special education teachers. Assist with classroom organization, instructional materials, and learning activities. In-House Substitute Teacher : Serve as the school\'s primary substitute teacher during staff absences. Deliver lesson plans prepared by classroom teachers while maintaining instructional pacing and classroom expectations. Document instructional activities completed and communicate relevant information to absent teachers. Student Support : Build positive, respectful relationships with students using trauma-informed and restorative practices. Model appropriate social-emotional and behavioral expectations. Encourage student persistence, attendance, and academic engagement. Collaboration and School Operations : Participate in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and school-wide initiatives. Assist with school-wide academic intervention efforts and enrichment activities. Support school-wide testing administration as needed. Prepare instructional materials and organize classroom resources. Follow all school, district, and facility safety and security procedures. Professional Responsibilities : Maintain professional boundaries with students. Demonstrate flexibility in responding to the needs of a highly mobile student population. Model professionalism, patience, consistency, and respect in all interactions. Other Duties as Assigned : Tasks that may not directly align with the job description but are vital to maintain a safe and effective teaching and learning environment for scholars and staff. Qualifications Bachelor\'s degree (required) Paraprofessional certification (or ability to obtain) preferred Experience serving as a substitute teacher or instructional assistant across multiple content areas (preferred) Minimum of 1 year of experience working with at-risk youth, justice-involved youth, or students in alternative educational settings Organization and Vision Maya Angelou Schools and See Forever Foundation empower opportunity and justice-involved youth to transform the trajectory of their lives. We engage scholars in a restorative, relevant school experience prioritizing personalized academic support, well-being, and preparation for the post-Maya pathway. We strive for a thriving learning community. Salary and Benefits Maya Angelou Schools and See Forever Foundation salaries are comparable to other public charter schools in the District of Columbia area. Benefits include health care coverage, HSA/FSA and dependent care accounts, voluntary dental and vision, employer-paid short-term and long-term disability options, commuter benefits, and a 401k retirement savings plan with employer contribution after 1 year of service. See Forever is an equal-opportunity employer. We believe a diverse staff is a better, more effective staff. Salary Description $60,000-$65,000 Required Contact and Logistics See Forever Foundation jobs are posted for internal and external applicants. For more information, visit the See Forever Foundation website at Additional application details and communications will follow through the official channels. This description reflects the current role and may be updated as needed. #J-18808-Ljbffr