The Learning Specialist is a highly motivated educator who supports small groups of neurodivergent learners and works collaboratively to design individualized plans for success. This role requires strong interpersonal communication, cultural awareness, and a commitment to fostering a student-driven learning environment. Through mentorship and structure, the Learning Specialist empowers adolescents to develop agency and confidence.

Specific duties may include: 

• Teaching 5 sections
• Advising up to 6–8 students
• Leading or co-leading an athletic team or co-curricular 2 out of 3 seasons
• Supporting community life responsibilities
  

Essential Qualities of Employment

• Team Building and Culture Shaping Mindset
• Ethical and Responsible Decision Making
• Effective and Culturally Responsive Communication
• Collaborative Framework for Innovation and Results
  
  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Role

• Teach and coach students in executive functioning, self-advocacy, study skills, and strategies tailored to individual learning profiles
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans aligned with best practices and Gould's mission
• Communicate regularly with students, families, and faculty to support educational and personal development
• Promote environments that honor cultural identity and diverse viewpoints
• Set long-range student goals based on continuous assessment and feedback
• Collaborate closely with the Academic Support Program (ASP) Director
  

Advisor Role

• Serve as the communications hub between student, family, and faculty
• Maintain a strong understanding of adolescent development
• Meet with advisees weekly during advisory blocks
• Support the advisory curriculum and guide students in academics, community engagement, and personal growth
• Communicate consistently with advising team leaders
  
  

Athletics/Co-curricular Role

• Keep accurate attendance records
• Create engaging, age-appropriate activities
• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and spirited environment
• Collaborate with the Dean of Athletics regarding expectations and planning
  
  

Community Life Role

• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities
• Participate in assigned community life duties
• Follow all policies in the Employee Handbook and Community Guide
• Maintain professionalism through punctuality, communication, and meeting deadlines
• Collaborate proactively to minimize scheduling conflicts

Preferences

• A degree in special education, reading, or a related discipline is preferred.
• At least 3 years of experience working with neurodivergent students in a school or other educational setting.
• Knowledge of and experience with evidence-based practices for supporting neurodivergent learners, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and best practices for neurodivergent learners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and make informed decisions independently.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a growth mindset, with a commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Obtain the CHRC clear status from the Maine Department of Education.
• Successfully pass a criminal and sexual offender background check.
• Possess a valid  US driver’s license.

About Gould Academy

Gould: Explore. Connect. Thrive. At Gould Academy, we believe education thrives at the intersection of academic excellence, experiential learning, and community engagement. Nestled at the edge of the White Mountains our 456-acre campus serves as a gateway to intellectual exploration, personal discovery, and. transformative experiences. Here, education is not transactional—it’s boldly transformational, driven by a shared commitment to kindness, courage, creativity, and curiosity. Our dedicated team of educators—deeply invested in fostering a supportive, inclusive environment—work closely with students to cultivate confidence, purpose, and empathy. At Gould, the classroom is just one chapter in a much larger story. Our mountain campus at Sunday River, access to the world-class Maine Mineral and Gem Museum, the National Forest lands that surround us, and partnerships with local organizations offer students opportunities to explore, connect, contribute, and grow in ways that extend far beyond campus boundaries. At Gould, we’re not just preparing students for diplomas—we’re preparing them to become thoughtful citizens, collaborative leaders, and lifelong learners ready ...to make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond. If you’re passionate about joining a community where learn- ing extends into every corner of campus and every corner of life, we invite you to join the Husky Team.

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Connections working at Gould Academy