Learning Specialist-Sacred Heart Program (2026-2027)-Mount De Sales Academy Catonsville, MD

The Learning Specialist oversees the instruction of college-bound students with identified mild learning disabilities and ADHD. The Learning Specialist teaches individually or in small groups, plans all instruction, and works with students to maximize their learning potential. The Learning Specialist guides students in the development of executive function skills, communication skills, testing strategies, self-advocacy, and knowledge of their specific learning needs.

The Learning Specialist for the Sacred Heart Program at Mount de Sales Academy is expected to be a highly skilled professional who works in close collaboration with the Vice Principal of Academics and the Sacred Heart Coordinator in order to effectively fulfill the various roles assumed throughout the day. Mount de Sales Academy seeks to offer a high-quality program integrated with religious truths and values. The Sacred Heart Learning Specialist supports the beliefs, values, and traditions of the Catholic Church and is expected to model Gospel values in personal demeanor and lifestyle. Respect for the dignity of each person is of utmost importance. Likewise, faculty and students are expected to model Christ-like behavior in their interactions with the Learning Specialist and with one another.

Duties and Responsibilities

The duties listed below are typically performed by an employee in this classification. However, an employee may not be assigned all duties and may be assigned additional duties not listed.

1. Teaching

Initiates, directs, and evaluates learning in alignment with course curriculum and the policies of the Sacred Heart Program.

• Provides input on a comprehensive curriculum strategy (scope and sequence).

• Instructs individual students or small groups during designated times to improve academic skills, provide remediation, assist with classwork, and strengthen study skills, time management, organizational skills, and test-taking strategies.

• Provides students with necessary resources to foster independence and academic responsibility.

• Oversees the creation of weekly lesson plans individualized for students and small groups.

• Fosters creativity, self-initiated learning, self-advocacy, and responsible self-direction.

• Guides students in applying knowledge and skills to new problem-solving situations.

• Inspires others through personal integrity and example.

• Demonstrates confidence in computer skills and effectively integrates educational technology into the curriculum.

• Performs other related tasks as assigned.

2. Planning

• Plans engaging and varied instructional approaches for presenting content.

• Addresses multiple learning styles in lesson planning.

• Assists in selecting appropriate learning aids, materials, and supplies.

• Prepares questions to facilitate student discussion.

• Aligns homework assignments with lessons taught.

• Engages in both long-range and weekly planning.

• Coordinates with the Sacred Heart Coordinator and Testing Coordinator to ensure adequate coverage of the testing center and proper testing procedures.

3. Preparation of Materials

• In coordination with the department, prepares yearly course syllabi and course requirements.

• Ensures that instructional materials and technology equipment are readily available.

• Duplicates materials and posts important resources in the online classroom.

• Reviews all classroom resources—including films, media, and online materials—to ensure they are appropriate and aligned with curriculum goals.

4. Classroom Environment

• Maintains a neat, orderly, and visually appealing classroom environment, including bulletin boards, materials, and bookshelves.

• Creates an organized and welcoming digital classroom environment.

• Encourages students to engage, ask questions, and take responsibility for their learning and materials.

• Supports cooperative learning and peer collaboration.

• Helps students develop self-discipline and self-direction.

• Responds to student needs and adjusts instruction to meet individual learning needs through individualized or small-group instruction.

5. Professional Activities

• Actively participates in faculty meetings and diocesan and school in-service programs.

• Assists teachers in implementing accommodations and provides tools to address academic concerns.

• Accepts membership on school committees.

• Attends educational workshops and conferences.