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University of Minnesota

MTSS Support Specialist

University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55400


About the Job

Position Overview The Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) invites applications for a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) position. This individual will provide support to State, Regional, and Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) in the implementation of the Mn-MTSS framework and statewide literacy initiatives. The MTSS Specialist position requires competency in culturally responsive education and pedagogy and will interact with a variety of educators and community members to acquire and interpret system-level data. This position actively supports and advances the University's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. The MTSS Specialist will assist in developing and sustaining opportunities to support state and local educational agencies in scaling up evidence-based practices with fidelity including (1) leading the development of identifying K-12 evidence-based literacy interventions (2) providing technical assistance to school districts and other educational agencies in developing and implementing action plans for improving student outcomes, (3) providing coaching to Regional MTSS and Literacy leads and coaches on MnMTSS implementation (4) designing and delivering professional learning targeted toward key needs, (5) building and/or identifying tools and resources to assist MN schools in improving data-based decision-making practices. The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise and experience in the field of education as well as experience working in state educational agencies to support MTSS implementation (including a focus on literacy). In addition, the candidate will be up to date with research around effective educational MTSS and literacy practices including implementation/improvement science. The candidate must be highly organized and skilled in oral and written communication. This position will report directly to the Associate Director of CAREI's MTSS Core; however, it is expected that the candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively across Core teams, as well as independently, making daily operational decisions within their projects. The University of Minnesota encourages a healthy work-life balance for employees. CEHD is committed to an excellent employee experience, offering a flexible work environment that meets the needs of students, staff, faculty, and the communities we serve. Flexible work arrangements may include flexibility in schedule and/or work location. Please note that 100% remote work requires approval prior to offer. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures. Job Responsibilities

Technical Assistance and Outreach Services (50%) Lead the development of a process for reviewing, selecting, and publishing a state-approved list of evidence-based literacy intervention materials for students in kindergarten through grade 12. Support state, regional, and local educational agencies in evaluating and improving their implementation of the MnMTSS framework and statewide literacy initiatives. Develop guidance for districts about best practices in literacy instruction, and practices that are not evidence-based. Support the development and implementation of MnMTSS implementation fidelity checks, including literacy. Provide guidance on MTSS model plans that districts may adopt to support efforts to screen, identify, intervene, and monitor the progress of students not reading at grade level. Provide coaching on MnMTSS implementation to state, regional, and local educational agencies. Design and deliver professional learning targeted toward key partner needs. Support the development of MnMTSS deliverables for statewide implementation in the areas of assessment, data-based decision-making, multilevel instruction, infrastructure, and family and community engagement. Provide technical assistance around strategic planning and the development of MnMTSS implementation plans. Identify and respond to requests for proposals from educational agencies and professional organizations for CAREI services. Communicate and disseminate CAREI project information at state and national conferences. Conduct Research and Evaluation (45%) Design and lead implementation reviews of the MTSS framework for local and state educational agencies in MN and around the country. Design research and evaluation plans to meet the information needs of school districts, non-profit organizations, higher education institutions, and community organizations. Work with clients to develop research-based proposals for grants and research/evaluation projects including logic models, methods design, and literature reviews. Prepare written and oral reports of research and evaluation results. Work with external consultants to review literacy curricula to ensure culturally responsive practices. Coordinate and Direct Project Personnel (5%) Supervise Graduate Research Assistants. Coordinate project staff and monitor deliverables when serving in the project lead role. Qualifications

Required Qualifications Advanced degree in Education, Psychology, Leadership, Evaluation, or related field, with at least 4 years of experience or a BA/BS with at least 6 years of relevant post-degree experience. Demonstrated experience working with state or regional educational agencies on MTSS implementation. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities. Proven experience providing technical assistance to state or regional educational agencies. Commitment and experience with culturally responsive approaches and practices, and integration of an equity lens across project life cycles. Preferred Qualifications Experience leading and/or conducting multiple large- and small-scale projects involving students, educational staff, families, and administration in school settings, and coordinating the analysis, evaluation and reporting on all phases of the project(s). Ability to make informed decisions to drive processes forward, maintain project momentum, and effectively achieve project goals. Experience in conducting field-based research in LEAs, schools and social service agencies using mixed approaches including quantitative and qualitative methodologies to research and evaluate programs and policies. Proven ability to initiate, working effectively in both independent and collaborative team environments. About the Department

Department Overview CAREI is a well-established college-wide center that serves as the link between research and practice in Minnesota schools PreK-16 and other agencies interested in applied educational and social science research. CAREI's mission is to maximize well-being in schools, families, and communities by becoming the premier hub for making research accessible and actionable to ensure equitable outcomes. College Overview The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the University's third largest college, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of life. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. That's why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice. Pay and Benefits

Pay Range:

The salary range for this position is $90,000-$105,000. Final salary offers are dependent on the candidate's experience, skills, and internal equity within the department. Time Appointment:

100% Appointment Position Type:

P&A Staff Please visit the

Office of Human Resources

website for more information regarding benefit eligibility. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the

Regents Tuition Benefit Program Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost Employee Transit Pass

with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. This position will remain open until filled. *To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647. Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

http://diversity.umn.edu Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).

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