Language Acquisition Specialist

PRIMARY PURPOSE: The EL Language Acquisition Specialist, under the direction of the district Multilingual Director, will provide second language acquisition support to teachers of English Learners (EL). The EL Specialist provides guidance to the teacher in the areas of lesson planning/design and instructional delivery. The EL Elementary Language Specialist ensures that the EL classroom environment aligns to district and statutory program requirements and ensures all mandated practices are being implemented and monitored. All employees of SISD are expected to act with integrity, support organizational goals, communicate in a clear and respectful manner, champion the needs of our students and drive continuous improvement. QUALIFICATIONS: Required: ? Bachelors degree from accredited university ? Five years of job-related experience in adult education ? Bilingual/ESL job related experiences Preferred: ? Valid Texas teaching certificate ? Bilingual/ESL Certification ? Five years job-related experience in PK-12 education ? Successfully demonstrated track record of academic success with providing professional development to teachers of English Learners Spring Independent School District SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: ? In-depth knowledge of state curricular standards as written, taught and assessed ? In-depth knowledge of federal, state and local laws, policies, procedures and processes related to the education of students who receive services through the ESL program. ? In-depth knowledge of state, local and federal laws, policies concerning Emergent Bilinguals ? Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills ? Excellent data analysis skills ? Excellent skills in the use of Microsoft Office applications MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: ? Uses research-based adult learning and engagement strategies to support elementary teachers of English Learners ensure the transfer from L1 to L2 (English language) to increase ELs academic achievement. ? Ensures language accommodations are implemented for identified English Learners. ? Supports and monitors best practices and differentiation of instruction for language acquisition of English Learners. ? Engages secondary teachers of English Learners in adult learning experiences designed to develop a strong understanding of second language acquisition. ? Designs, facilitates, and supports professional development sessions for elementary teachers of English Learners throughout the school year, on weekends, and during the summer which includes, but not limited to, best practices and differentiation of instruction for language acceleration, and effective technology integration. ? Participates in all district trainings throughout the school year, on weekends, and during the summer that are directly related to supporting teachers of English Learners. ? Tracks TELPAS and other local and state assessments to monitor student academic growth and support teachers in the development of individualized student plans. ? Monitors the failure rate of English Learners and uses data to provide specific interventions and strategies to support teachers of identified EL students. ? Safeguards the confidentiality of all documentation provided or generated. ? Performs all other duties as assigned. WORKING CONDITIONS: The usual and customary methods of performing the jobs functions require the following physical demands: physical mobility, standing, prolonged sitting, some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling. This position will require traveling within the district. Mental demands: ability to solve problems and deal with a variety of situations; ability to interpret a Spring Independent School District variety of data; ability to interpret TEC and policy; ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory, ability to be effective in both oral and written communication; ability to maintain emotional control under stres .