PT Learning Specialist at Progressive Hebrew School in Brooklyn

About Fig Tree

Fig Tree is a progressive, Brooklyn-based independent Jewish education program for children ages 3 – 13. The purpose of Fig Tree is to provide a rich and accessible Jewish education to kids from interfaith, interracial and/ or secular backgrounds- or simply to families seeking a Hebrew School alternative.

Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Learning Specialist for our progressive Jewish education program. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing personalized learning plans that cater to the diverse needs of our students, ensuring that each child thrives academically, socially, and spiritually. This role involves close collaboration with our Education Director, teachers and parents to develop inclusive educational strategies that reflect Jewish values and traditions. The Learning Specialist will also conduct assessments, provide one-on-one support, and lead professional development workshops. 

Requirements

A background in special education and experience with differentiated instruction within a Jewish educational context is required. University or Master’s-level study in a relevant field (Special Education, Jewish Education, Judaic Studies, etc.) is preferred but is not necessary. Candidates should provide proof of ability to work as required by local and federal laws, and are subject to background check.

Responsibilities

1. Spend a reasonable amount of time preparing for class in advance. This includes reviewing the provided Fig Tree Lesson Plans (and all accompanying materials and text), and raising any questions or concerns, in advance of teaching date(s);
2. Collaboration: Collaborate with teachers, parents, and staff to create an optimal learning environment for each student. This could include regular meetings and written communication about a student's progress
3. Instructional Support: Provide support to teachers to help them accommodate students with different learning needs. This might involve co-teaching certain classes or providing resources and strategies for differentiated instruction.
4. Professional Development: Provide professional development for staff about learning differences, inclusive practices, and strategies to support diverse learners.
5. Parental Engagement: Connect with parents who identified students’ learning needs. 
6. Disability Justice/ equity: Help craft Fig Tree’s approach, policies, and plan to facilitate an equitable learning environment for our students. 
7. Optional additional hours: 
• Attend Fig Tree holiday and shabbat events. 
• Chaperone student field trips and service projects. 

Schedule

This is a part-time, seasonal position, from September 2025 to June 2026. Fig Tree is off for major Jewish holidays, and whenever NYC public or private schools are not in session. Our full calendar is here. 

The Learning Specialist will work at all of Fig Tree’s class sites on a rotating schedule, as follows: 

Primary sites (visit most weeks):

• Sundays in Park Slope (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
• Tuesdays in Carroll Gardens (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM)
• Wednesdays in Park Slope (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM)

Secondary sites (visit occasionally, as an alternate):

• Sundays in LIC, Queens (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM)
• Tuesdays in Harlem (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM)
• Wednesdays in Clinton Hill (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM)
• Thursdays in Greenpoint (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM)

Compensation

From $50 per hour, commensurate with experience

Send cover letter and resume to: Amy Benarroch - [email protected]