High School Learning Specialist

As a High School Learning Specialist at Harlem Children’s Zone, you will be responsible for providing Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS) using both push-in and pull-out models. This includes reviewing IEP-related documents, collaborating with general education teachers, and developing individualized learning plans tailored to each student's needs. You'll also monitor and document student progress and maintain high academic expectations.

To apply for the High School Learning Specialist position at Promise Academy, you need to have a Bachelor’s degree and a valid New York State Teaching Certification in Special Education. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in an urban school setting is required. This combination of education and experience will prepare you to meet the unique challenges in our educational environment.

The typical work schedule for a High School Learning Specialist at Harlem Children’s Zone is Monday through Friday from 7:40 AM to 4:00 PM. This position operates on a 10-month school year, with optional summer opportunities for additional pay, allowing you to balance work and personal time effectively.

Harlem Children’s Zone is deeply committed to supporting its teachers. As a High School Learning Specialist, you will have access to a personal laptop, Smartboards, and tablets, as well as biweekly professional development. Additionally, you'll be backed by a dedicated team of academic coaches, deans, guidance counselors, and social workers, ensuring you have the resources and support necessary for success.

Being a High School Learning Specialist at Promise Academy comes with a highly competitive benefits package, including generous paid time off, no-cost health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), a $6,000 sign-on bonus for certified teachers, and up to $30,000 in student loan forgiveness. You'll also have the opportunity for annual and performance-based bonuses, making it an attractive career choice.

When answering this question, highlight specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully created and implemented individualized learning plans. Discuss your approach in collaborating with educators and parents to ensure plans met students’ IEP requirements and how you monitored their progress over time.

To effectively answer this question, share strategies you use to maintain a positive classroom environment. Discuss proactive methods like establishing classroom rules, engaging students in the lesson, and using specific procedures for addressing disruptions respectfully without losing focus on the learning objectives.

In your response, provide examples of instructional strategies that resonate with you, such as differentiated instruction, hands-on learning activities, or technology integration. Emphasize how these strategies have fostered engagement and improved outcomes for students with diverse needs.

To answer effectively, discuss your experience in setting clear communication channels with general education teachers. Mention specific strategies, such as co-planning lessons, participating in team meetings, and sharing resources to create an inclusive environment that benefits all students.

In your answer, detail the types of assessments you find effective, such as formative assessments, performance tasks, or portfolios. Discuss how these methods provide insight into student understanding and how you adapt instruction based on assessment results.

Highlight your strategies for maintaining open communication with parents, such as regular updates via emails, phone calls, or conferences. Stress the importance of building relationships and using clear language to ensure parents are informed and involved in their child's educational journey.

When tackling this question, choose a specific instance and outline the challenge you faced, the steps you took to address it, and the positive resolution achieved. Focus on your problem-solving and adaptability skills in overcoming obstacles while maintaining student learning.

Discuss various strategies that foster inclusion, such as using diverse materials, implementing flexible grouping, and establishing clear expectations for behavior. Highlight your commitment to celebrating diversity and ensuring every student feels valued, respected, and included in learning.

In your response, share specific examples of how you've effectively incorporated technology into your lessons—whether through educational apps, interactive platforms, or online resources. Emphasize how technology enhances accessibility and engagement for your students.

To answer this question, reflect on your personal motivations and share anecdotes that showcase your passion for helping students with diverse needs. Connect your career aspirations to the mission of Harlem Children’s Zone and how you believe education can empower all students to succeed.