What are the responsibilities and job description for the Middle School Learning Specialist position at Winchester Thurston School?
Position Type :
Middle School Teaching / Academic Support Coordinator
Date Posted : 1 / 10 / 2025
Location :
Winchester Thurston - City Campus Winchester Thurston School, a Junior Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 independent day school in Pittsburgh, announces a search for a Middle School Learning Specialist. The Middle School Learning Specialist provides direct instruction that focuses on increasing skill deficits in reading, writing, mathematics and executive functioning for students in grades 6 - 8. The individual in this position must understand the emotional and educational needs of adolescents, be able to effectively communicate with them, and respond appropriately to individual learning differences in students. The Middle School Learning Specialist performs under the general direction of the Head of School and the daily supervision of the Director of Support Services in collaboration with the Director of Middle School. The individual in this position will work closely with the Director and Associate Director of Middle School, the Director of Support Services, Middle School Counselor, students, other faculty members, and parents.
Responsibilities
- Utilize research-based screening tools to determine student's academic strengths and weaknesses that will assist students with developing academic goals
- Utilize research-based educational programs in the classroom with students to assess reading, math, and executive functioning skills
- Provide direct instruction and support to students individually and in small groups to assist with increasing executive functioning skills and identified skill deficits in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics
- Refer students, as needed, to the Middle School Counselor to support their social and emotional needs
- Collaborate with the Middle School Counselor on a consistent basis to implement lessons in the classroom (e.g., advocacy skills, diagnosis discussions, knowledge about accommodations in the student's support plan, etc.)
- Support implementation of testing accommodations, assisting with adapting assessments and differentiation in the classroom when requested by the classroom teacher
- Provide an alternative space for students with accommodations to complete assessments required for content area classes
- Assist with the administration and make-up testing of standardized assessments for Middle School students who have accommodation plans
- Forward communication to the classroom teachers when parents are requesting additional information about assignments, assessments, and the student's classroom performance
- Engage in push-in models of instruction to support student needs in various academic areas
- Work as a team member with teaching colleagues and administrators by attending all department meetings, Middle School division meetings, professional development days, and serving on committees as needed
- Communicate with parents in an effective and timely manner to report student progress on measurable goals following procedures outlined by the Support Services department
- Commit to ongoing professional growth focusing on learning opportunities that support WT's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, wellness and supporting students with diverse learning needs
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for and engagement in the school's :
City as Our Campus initiative, supporting meaningful community connections for experiential learning opportunities within and outside the classroom
Qualifications
Applicants may apply at and will need to complete an application as well as submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for 3 professional references.
Winchester Thurston School is an equal opportunity employer. WT is dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse and pluralistic community and strongly encourages applications from people of color, LGBTQ candidates, and women.
