LOWER SCHOOL LITERACY SPECIALIST

SYNAPSE SCHOOL POSITION OVERVIEW

LEARNING CENTER: LOWER SCHOOL LITERACY SPECIALIST, 25-26 School Year

Synapse School in Menlo Park, CA, an innovative TK-8 independent school located in the heart of Silicon Valley dedicated to rethinking and reimagining education, seeks a LOWER SCHOOL LITERACY SPECIALIST to join the SYNAPSE LEARNING CENTER team. The Literacy Specialist will primarily serve Lower School students in grades Kindergarten through 4th.

Synapse educates a community of change makers by combining social-emotional learning, leading-edge academics, and the practice of innovation. We have an unwavering belief in the capacity of children, and our teachers work alongside our students to unlock their powers of curiosity, discovery, and creativity. Synapse’s program provides a deep and unique range of integrated academic, social, and creative experiences to help children use their hearts and hands to unleash their passion for learning. Synapse draws students from around the San Francisco Bay Area.

POSITION DESCRIPTION
Synapse School seeks an experienced elementary Literacy Specialist for a full-time position to address the needs of students with or at risk for Specific Learning Disorders in reading and writing. The ideal candidate possesses expertise in SLD prevention and intervention, as well as a positive disposition, growth mindset, and collaborative spirit. Candidates must be excited to collaborate with colleagues and families to serve students with SLDs, be flexible to meet the school community’s needs and be committed to equitable student success. The Literacy Specialists serve students directly in intervention sessions, through collaboration with teachers, and in partnership with families. Responsibilities include but are not limited to, explicit literacy instruction, integration of SEL practices and evidence-informed teaching, collaborating with teachers to develop accessible curriculum, evening and weekend events, and supervisory duties.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Work closely with the Learning Center Director, teachers, parents, and outside professionals on behalf of students and children
Identify students needing additional literacy services, accommodations, and educational testing
Develop learning plans, including intervention and home practice based on educational evaluations, benchmark assessments, and progress monitoring
Instruct students, providing literacy prevention, intervention, and remediation through push-in and pull-out services, using evidence-informed practices
Facilitate implementation of in-school accommodations
Mentor students to foster their personal and social-emotional growth
Document and regularly communicate information relevant to students’ learning, LC services, and progress to teachers, families, and service providers
Collaborate with the Learning Center team, teachers, and administrators in developing curriculum and programs to serve learners with diverse needs

AN IDEAL CANDIDATE WOULD POSSESS THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of two years of teaching experience, preferably in independent schools
Knowledge of and the ability to interpret test results of cognition, achievement, and learning disability diagnostic tests
Master’s Degree and/or Graduate Certification as a Special Education, Literacy or Learning Specialist preferred but not required
Specific training in or expertise in providing interventions for students with Specific Learning Disorders in literacy and math preferred (e.g. Orton Gillingham, The Writing Revolution, Universal Design for Learning)
Knowledge of the Science of Learning and ability to implement evidence-informed practices
Proficiency in Google Suite products, macOS/iOS platforms including accessibility features, and an aptitude for learning and navigating various digital platforms for assessment, teaching, and learning

WORKING CONDITIONS MAY INCLUDE:
Ability to work at a desk, conference table, or in meetings of various configurations
Ability to stand and circulate for extended periods
Ability to communicate so others will be able to understand everyday conversation clearly
Ability to lift or carry up to 25 pounds

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Dexterity and physical condition to maintain a vigorous work schedule and meet standards of physical and mental health
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Individuals must maintain a professional attitude and appearance.

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS
$107,000 to $114,500

Synapse offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, and retirement, as well as additional lifestyle perks.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Applicants should email a cover letter of interest specific to the position, résumé, and three names of references with contact information in one combined PDF to Dana Kuper, Director of the Learning Center, dana.kuper@synapseschool.org. Include ‘Literacy Specialist’ in the subject of your email. This position is open until filled.

Synapse School does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familial affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law. All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.