Learning Specialist; Grades 1-4

Position: Learning Specialist (Grades 1-4)
The Orchard School:

Founded in 1922, Orchard is an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school for approximately 500 students in preschool through the 8th grade. Orchard is committed to advancing each student's academic success, self-confidence, open-mindedness, ethical character, leadership, and love of learning. Located in north Indianapolis on a 43-acre wooded campus with a state-of-the-art facility, Orchard promises academic excellence through a well-rounded education, engaging the natural curiosity of students in an active, child-centered, and experiential learning environment.

We seek, and strive to maintain a diverse and inclusive school community, and are committed to the principles that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. We value the skills, knowledge, and experiences a diverse workforce brings to our school.

The Position:

The Orchard School seeks a dynamic, nurturing, and growth-oriented learning specialist to join our innovative and collaborative Elementary School. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a community dedicated to the ongoing development of a progressive, hands-on, and whole-child approach to teaching and learning. Our foundation is built on the unwavering belief that all children are naturally curious and capable learners who thrive in active, child-centered, and experiential learning environments.

Key Responsibilities:

● Designs and provides targeted one-on-one and small group instruction in literacy and math

● Observes and assesses Elementary School students using a variety of tools to support with learning strategies, organization, and study skills

● Guides teachers in differentiating instruction and implementing classroom accommodations and modifications

● Provides teachers with resources, support, guidance, and training to better meet the diverse needs of all learners

● Creates individual classroom accommodations based on evaluations

● Writes, updates, and maintains student-learning plans and progress reports

● Communicates support plans and student progress to parents and teachers

● Recommends appropriate outside support, including tutors and specialists, for students who need additional services

● Communicates with external professionals to ensure consistency between in school and outside support strategies

● Attends weekly faculty meetings and school events

Qualifications
- The most competitive candidates will possess most or all of the following qualifications and qualities:

● Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field;
Master's degree preferred

● Minimum of three years of experience as a learning support teacher or in a related role (strongly preferred)

● Trained in Orton-Gillingham

● Strong foundation in the Science of Reading

● Trained in math interventions and instructional strategies

● Familiar with UFLI, Acadience, and Illustrative Math

● Demonstrates knowledge of executive functioning skills (e.g., task initiation, organization, planning, self-monitoring) and occupational therapy-informed practices to support sensory regulation and fine motor development

● Demonstrates cultural competency and a commitment to engaging with and learning from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences

● Strong collaborator, capable of building positive relationships with faculty, administrators, students, parents, and the broader community

● Supports and embodies Orchard's definition of progressive education

● Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

● Open to learning from and with colleagues to enhance teaching practices

● Approaches work with optimism, energy, kindness, and a sense of humor

Benefits:

The Orchard School values our employees and offers a total compensation package designed to attract and retain talented individuals who make our school successful. Benefits include:

● 11 paid personal days

● Health, dental, and vision insurance

● Retirement Savings Plan

● Tuition reimbursement

● Employer-paid life insurance

● Employer paid long- and short-term disability

● Additional benefits