Education Specialist

Description

Who We Are

Navigator Schools is a network of public charter schools that operates four high performing schools, three K-8 schools in the Northern Central Coast area and a K-5 in Hayward. Navigator exists because a group of concerned educators and parents no longer wanted to wait for someone else to figure out how to improve the quality of public school education. They were determined to demonstrate that ethnicity, early English fluency, and socio-economic status are factors outside the classroom that may challenge, but should not predetermine, a student’s academic success. With that determination, our first site was founded.

After studying best practices from schools throughout the United States, we created a rigorous K-8 full inclusion model that anticipates and meets the needs of all students. Our students enjoy research-based, personalized learning supported by a strong instructional staff. Our staff is supported by extensive professional development and regular coaching at every level of the organization which leads to phenomenal results for all students.

Navigator Schools is committed to closing the achievement gap through highly effective, student focused teaching methods, and boasts some of the top test scores in California.  Navigator operates a growing network of schools, with campuses currently in Gilroy, Hollister, Watsonville, and Hayward, and has also positively influenced public school districts and charter school organizations throughout California by establishing partnerships and implementing professional development modules for school staff and leaders outside of the Navigator organization.

Our Mission

Navigator Schools equips students to become learners and leaders in high school, college, and beyond. We develop top-tier teams of educators who continuously improve and innovate schools that deliver phenomenal outcomes for all students, regardless of their circumstances.

Role Summary

Navigator is seeking dedicated, passionate Special Education service providers who are driven to impact the lives of traditionally underserved students.  The Education Specialist will ensure top quality special education services are provided to students with all types of learning differences, by directly delivering services, ensuring compliance with requisite laws, coaching and supervising staff, and developing and growing Navigator’s full inclusion Special Education model.

Responsibilities

Direct Services

• Provides direct instruction and services for students whose needs are identified in a written IEP and who are assigned to general education classrooms for a majority of the day
• Uses teaching materials and research-based practices that are in alignment with Navigator’s core curriculum and state standards. Supports students so they can develop their maximum amount of self-reliance and functional independence
• Collaborates in the development and implementation of behavior management techniques as appropriate, observes student behavior in the general education classrooms and consults with teachers regarding these behaviors, communicates regularly with students and parents
• Works closely with School Psychologist, Speech and Language Pathologist, and other providers of related services for special needs students to ensure optimal services as provided and that the compliance-related issues are addressed in a timely manner

Program Compliance

• Coordinates IEP processes and timelines and facilitates necessary accommodations for standardized testing, in accordance with the goals and objectives in each student’s IEP 
• Maintains detailed student special education records and electronic databases for special education and all related paperwork 
• Updates knowledge and expertise by attending meetings, in-service programs, and conferences

Program Development, Coaching, and School Culture

• Develops an inclusive educational setting for students in collaboration with classroom teachers, school administrators, and other school personnel 
• Coaches and supervises Student Services paraprofessional staff to ensure optimum effectiveness in services to students
• Communicates effectively and works cooperatively with all other school personnel, parents, and other agencies for the best interests of each student
• Supports general education teachers on differentiation of curriculum, accommodations, and modifications for students with IEPs 
• Provides training to school site personnel regarding the unique needs of students
• Maintains high expectations for self and students at all times; builds a positive culture among school site Student Services staff that aligns with Navigator wide norms