Special Education Support Specialist

The Special Education Support Specialist at the Jewish Community Center plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive support to students with diverse learning needs during the camp season. This temporary, seasonal position emphasizes collaboration, observation, and implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) to ensure student success. The Specialist fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for campers, working closely with teachers, counselors, therapists, parents and other stakeholders. This position is classified as temporary and seasonal, and the Jewish Community Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and other team members to identify and address the unique needs of campers with disabilities and special needs.
• Conduct classroom observations to assess camper progress and identify areas for support.
• Participate in IEP meetings, contributing insights and recommendations for camper goals.
• Communicate effectively with all team members regarding camper progress, needs, and interventions.
• Assist in the development and implementation of behavioral interventions and support plans for campers with diverse needs.
• Model effective strategies and techniques for staff (seasonal and year-round) to support campers with disabilities.
• Provide training to staff on inclusive practices, accommodations, and interventions for camper success, when applicable.
• Serve as a resource for staff in implementing accommodations and modifications in the camp environment.
• Maintain accurate documentation of camper progress, interventions, and supports provided.
• Generate regular reports on camper progress and recommend adjustments to support plans.
• Offer ongoing feedback and guidance to staff based on observations and camper needs.
• Support teachers and counselors in creating and adapting lesson plans to meet the needs of campers with disabilities.
• Assist in facilitating parent communication and meetings regarding camper progress and support.
• Collaborate with the administrative team to align camp-wide goals with the needs of campers.
• Participate in the development and implementation of camp-wide initiatives to promote inclusivity and accessibility.
• Provide support and guidance to new counselors to ensure effective support for campers with diverse needs.

Essential Functions include, but are not limited to:

• Maintain positive working relationships with teachers, staff, parents, and stakeholders.
• Preserve confidentiality of children, families, and staff in the program.
• React with flexibility and sensitivity to changing situations and needs.
• Assist in keeping the camp community informed about the camp curriculum and programs.
• Prepare and maintain reports/documentation related to assigned activities.
• Attend and participate in meetings, trainings, conferences, and events as required.
• Align mentorship efforts with the camp's vision.
• Coordinate teaching standards and maintain appropriate records and files.
• Organize workload, prioritize tasks, and meet multiple deadlines effectively.
• Communicate effectively in oral and written form.
• Report regularly to the Executive Assistant Director & Director of Early Childhood on progress of campers and teams.
• Assist in the development and implementation of program goals.
• Perform all duties assigned promptly and efficiently.
• Maintain consistent and reliable attendance.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of 4 years experience in an early childhood or grade school environment
• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Intervention or related field required

It is expected that the Mental Health Support Specialist will be a team player as part of the JCC Professional Staff. He/she is expected to be aware of the JCC Mission Statement and work within the frameworks of that mission. Responsibilities of the job may be changed as the needs of the JCC and/or community change.