The Orchard School seeks a dynamic, nurturing, and growth-oriented learning specialist to join our innovative and collaborative Elementary School. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a community dedicated to the ongoing development of a progressive, hands-on, and whole-child approach to teaching and learning. Our foundation is built on the unwavering belief that al children are naturally curious and capable learners who thrive in active, child-centered, and experiential learning environments.
Key Responsibilities:
? Designs and provides targeted one-on-one and small group instruction in literacy and math
? Observes and assesses Elementary School students using a variety of tools to support with learning strategies, organization, and study skills
? Guides teachers in differentiating instruction and implementing classroom accommodations and modifications
? Provides teachers with resources, support, guidance, and training to better meet the diverse needs of al learners
? Creates individual classroom accommodations based on evaluations ? Writes, updates, and maintains student-learning plans and progress reports
? Communicates support plans and student progress to parents and teachers
? Recommends appropriate outside support, including tutors and specialists, for students who need additional services
? Communicates with external professionals to ensure consistency between in school and outside support strategies
? Attends weekly faculty meetings and school events
Qualifications- The most competitive candidates will possess most or all of the following qualifications and qualities:
? Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field; Master’s degree preferred
? Minimum of three years of experience as a learning support teacher or in a related role (strongly preferred)
? Trained in Orton-Gillingham
? Strong foundation in the Science of Reading
? Trained in math interventions and instructional strategies
? Familiar with UFLI, Acadience, and Illustrative Math
? Demonstrates knowledge of executive functioning ski ls (e.g., task initiation, organization, planning, self-monitoring) and occupational therapy–informed practices to support sensory regulation and fine motor development
? Demonstrates cultural competency and a commitment to engaging with and learning from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences
? Strong collaborator, capable of building positive relationships with faculty, administrators, students, parents, and the broader community
? Supports and embodies Orchard's definition of progressive education
? Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
? Open to learning from and with colleagues to enhance teaching practices
? Approaches work with optimism, energy, kindness, and a sense of humor
Founded in 1922, Orchard is an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school for approximately 500 students in preschool through the 8th grade. Orchard is committed to advancing each student’s academic success, self-confidence, open-mindedness, ethical character, leadership, and love of learning. Located in north Indianapolis on a 43-acre wooded campus with a state-of-the-art facility, Orchard promises academic excellence through a well-rounded education, engaging the natural curiosity of students in an active, child-centered, and experiential learning environment. We seek, and strive to maintain a diverse and inclusive school community, and are committed to the principles that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. We value the ski ls, knowledge, and experiences a diverse workforce brings to our school.
