Job Title: Gifted Specialist (Kindergarten - 2nd Grade)

Reports to: Principal

FLSA Status: Exempt

 

Summary:

The Gifted Specialist is responsible for collaborating with principals and teachers to develop instructional strategies for increased student success. The Specialist coordinates any identification procedures for students as gifted and plans programs to assist all students.

 

Essential Functions:

• Participate in curriculum review and design
• Implement a variety of effective instructional strategies consistent with lesson objectives
• Diagnose and evaluate student abilities and progress in a timely and consistent manner
• Monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly
• Plan a program of study that meets individual needs, interests, and abilities of the students
• Create a classroom environment that is conducive to learning
• Assess the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provide progress reports as required
• Refer students for alternative services as provided by the Division
• Implement Division initiatives
• Collaborate effectively with department and grade level teachers
• Design and implement appropriate differentiated learning experiences that integrate with the general education program
• Provide direct consultation with general education teachers on specialized instructional techniques that support differentiated learning
• Assist with the design and implementation of professional learning activities focusing on assessing the needs and abilities of gifted and potentially gifted students and providing appropriately differentiated curriculum and instruction
• Assist with referral, assessment, and identification of gifted students
• Monitors progress and addresses issues/concerns/maintains accurate lists of referred, assessed, and identified students
• Assist with the dissemination of information about gifted education services
• Communicate effectively with all members of the school division and community
• Remain current on research and best practices in gifted education
• Maintain accurate, complete and correct records as required by law, district policy and administrative regulation
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities
• Abides by state statutes, school board policies and regulations
• Serve on committees as assigned
• Complete duties as assigned

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Perform single, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions; apply pertinent policies, regulations and/or laws; planning and managing activities; preparing and maintain accurate records; and operating standard office equipment including pertinent software applications; knowledge of basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; read technical information; compose a variety of documents and/or facilitate group discussions; knowledge of requirements for gifted programs, best practices for gifted education; analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions; specific knowledge to satisfactorily apply appropriate codes, policies, regulations and/or laws, age appropriate activities, lesson plan requirements, community resources and stages of child development; ability to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events, gather, collate and/or classify data; use job-related equipment; knowledge and practice of Culturally Responsive Teaching strategies; flexibility to work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; operate equipment using standardized methods; ability to work with a diversity of individuals and/or groups; independent interpretation of guidelines; problem solving with equipment; ability to establish and maintain constructive relationships; adapting to changing work priorities; maintaining confidentiality, exhibiting tact and patience; working flexible hours.

Education and/or Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree with endorsement in Gifted Education and at least three years of teaching experience is required. A Master’s Degree is preferred.

Physical Conditions and Nature of Work:

The usual and customary methods of performing the teaching position require the following physical demands: significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and the significant fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires 24% sitting, 33% walking, and 43% standing. The job is performed under minimal temperature variations and some hazardous conditions.

Evaluation

The Gifted Specialist is evaluated by the Principal.