Academic Support Specialist

School Overview 

Valley Beth Shalom Harold M. Schulweis Day School is a K-6 independent Jewish Day School located on the Valley Beth Shalom Synagogue campus in Encino, California. The school was founded in 1978 by nationally renowned Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis z"l, and established to provide both a stellar General Studies and Judaic studies curriculum. Rabbi Schulweis believed that school should be a place where students grapple with questions and issues cultivating their critical thinking and learning to take action to make the world a better place. He believed this should be done in an environment that fostered strong Jewish values and active involvement in Jewish experiences and community. 45+ years later, the school stands true to the original mission as a forward- thinking learning environment, linking traditional Jewish values and teaching to modern-day decision making and action, all within a vibrant and nurturing Jewish community. 

Position Summary:

The Academic Support Specialist is responsible for the leadership and coordination of academic intervention and support services. This role involves collaborating with teachers, staff, and parents to ensure the effective implementation of strategies that promote student academic achievement and success. The Academic Support Specialist will manage intervention programs and monitor student progress to ensure all students receive the necessary support to thrive. This position is open to being part time or full time.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership:
• Ensure the consistent and effective delivery of academic support services.
• Develop and implement professional development opportunities for staff and faculty.
• Program Development and Implementation:
• Collaborate with teachers and administrators to develop and implement effective academic intervention.
• Evaluate and select appropriate instructional materials and resources.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention programs and make necessary adjustments.
• Student Support and Progress Monitoring:
• Oversee the development and implementation of individualized academic support plans. 
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and intervention activities.
• Analyze student data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Monitor student progress and communicate findings to teachers and parents.
• Provide one-on-one and/or small group intervention to students
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between teachers, support staff, and parents.
• Conduct meetings with parents to discuss student progress and intervention strategies.
• Participate in school-wide meetings and professional development activities.
• Ensure compliance with school policies and procedures.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in special education, educational therapy, reading or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Experience working with elementary-aged children in an educational setting.
• Knowledge of effective instructional strategies and intervention programs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyze student data and use it to inform instruction.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.