Math Specialist

Job Title: Math Specialist

Organization: Phillips Brooks School (PBS)

About Phillips Brooks School:

PBS is a vibrant and innovative ELC to 5th-grade school committed to fostering a love of learning in a supportive and inclusive environment. Located on a beautiful campus in Menlo Park and serving 300 students, we instill values of courage, kindness, community, and a passion for lifelong learning.

About the Role:

The Math Specialist plays a pivotal role in elevating the quality of our math program, fostering exceptional pedagogy, and enriching the overall educational experience for students in Kindergarten through Grade 5. Reporting to the Associate Head of School for Academics, the Math Specialist collaborates with teams to plan, adapt, re-imagine, and implement the Bridges in Mathematics program in innovative and differentiated ways. This position requires a strong commitment to curiosity, creativity, and a collaborative spirit.

Key Responsibilities and Requirements:

● Instructional Responsibilities:

○ Provide direct instructional support to teachers, including co-teaching whole group and small group lessons, modeling effective teaching strategies, working with both small and large groups of students, and offering individualized guidance.

○ Observe classroom instruction, provide constructive feedback, and offer support in addressing individual student learning needs.

○ Collaborate with homeroom teachers to develop and implement differentiated learning plans for students requiring additional support or enrichment.

○ Extend mathematical instruction beyond the classroom through additional programming, including math circles, math club, enrichment offerings, etc.

● Curriculum Development:

○ Collaborate with teachers, the Associate Head of School for Academics, and the Director of Teaching and Learning to ensure the effective implementation of a rigorous and engaging math curriculum aligned with best practices, school values or initiatives, and research-based standards.

○ Analyze student data and utilize findings to inform curriculum development, identify areas for improvement, and drive data-driven instruction.

○ Develop and deliver professional development workshops for teachers on effective math instruction, including differentiated instruction, small group strategies, and the use of technology and manipulatives.

○ Engage with parents through presentations and meetings to discuss the benefits of a math program that prioritizes critical thinking, differentiated instruction, and a focus on conceptual understanding over simply accelerating through the curriculum ● Equity and Inclusion:

○ Champion equity in math education by ensuring all students have access to high-quality instruction and opportunities to succeed.

○ Ensure engagement, appropriate challenge, and support for a wide range of students, both those in need of support and those in need of extension.

○ Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that celebrates diverse learning styles, fosters a growth mindset, and encourages mathematical thinking for all students.

Personal Qualities and Attributes:

● Strong Work Ethic: Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to effectively prioritize tasks and manage multiple demands.

● Passion for Mathematics Instruction: A deep understanding of best practices in creating developmentally appropriate mathematical challenges that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills across diverse age groups. A genuine passion for working with children and a profound respect for the cultivation of mathematical habits of mind.

● Growth Mindset: A strong sense of curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

● Exceptional Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences, including children, families, colleagues, and administrators. This includes the ability to listen empathetically, address concerns constructively, and build strong relationships.

● Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging: A strong commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all children, families, and faculty/staff.

Qualifications:

● Essential:

○ Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or a related field, Master’s degree in Elementary Education, Mathematics or a related field

○ 5+ years of teaching experience

○ Strong communication and interpersonal skills

○ Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues

○ Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

○ Passion for mathematics education and a deep understanding of child development ● Desired:

○ Previous experience as a math specialist in the elementary education setting

○ Experience in an independent school setting

○ Experience with data-driven decision-making and program evaluation ○ Demonstrated history of elementary mathematics professional development and experience

Other Position Information:

This is a full-time, 10-month position with a salary range from $90,000-120,000 depending on background and experience. PBS has an excellent benefits program in addition to salary.

How to Apply:

Candidates for this position should submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three to five references (including their current supervisor).