Upper School Learning Specialist (Grades 4-8)
Location: Denver, Colorado
Type: Full-time, on-campus position for the 2026-2027 school year
About Our School
Montessori School of Denver (MSD) provides an engaging, empowering, and sound Montessori educational program for students ages 2-14. Our school is accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the Association of Colorado Independent Schools (ACIS), and the American Montessori Society (AMS). Founded in 1964, MSD is the oldest Montessori school in the Denver metro area.
In 2015, MSD completed a comprehensive multi-million-dollar expansion plan, adding a new Arts and Athletics Center, enhanced outdoor learning and play environments, a new Toddler Village, updated Middle School space, a thriving Urban Farm and one-of-a-kind Vertical Farm, and a state-of-the-art Science and Innovation Tower. Currently, the school serves over 345 students, Toddler through Middle School, with an expected increase in enrollment to 375 students over the next several years.
MSD is building on this strong foundation through an ambitious capital campaign to strengthen and expand the Lower Elementary program, enhance learning environments, and ensure facilities continue to reflect the innovation, excellence, and authenticity of a Montessori education.
Responsibilities
- Direct Academic Intervention Instructional Delivery:
- Design and implement high-impact, small-group interventions in math and literacy for students in grades 4-8.
- Utilize evidence-based strategies to address specific learning gaps, including structured literacy approaches and conceptual mathematical frameworks (such as "Low Floor, High Ceiling" tasks).
- Integrate organizational and study skill support within academic interventions to foster student independence and accountability.
- Assessment, Data Analysis & Systems Thinking:
- Coordinate and support the delivery of standardized and formative assessments across the Upper School.
- Analyze assessment results to identify trends, measure growth, and pivot instructional strategies accordingly.
- Apply systems thinking to evaluate the efficacy of current intervention protocols and suggest improvements to the broader learning support framework.
- Collaboration & Communication:
- Manage documentation of student accommodations and Learning Support Plans.
- Collaborate closely with classroom lead teachers to differentiate core curriculum and ensure intervention goals align with classroom expectations.
- Act as a primary point of contact for families of students receiving support regarding student progress, facilitating meetings to discuss growth, challenges, and home-school alignment.
- Participate actively in multi-disciplinary team meetings (including administrators and mental health staff) to provide a holistic view of student academic needs.
- Facilitate the transition of learning support plans for students transitioning to middle and high school.
- Contribute to the school community through participation in faculty meetings, committees, carlines, recess duty, etc.
- Professional Leadership & Best Practices:
- Remain current regarding neuro-affirming, up-to-date special education, and pedagogical best practices.
- Serve as a resource for faculty and families by sharing strategies related to differentiated instruction and inclusive classroom practices.
- Maintain meticulous records of student progress and interventions, ensuring all documentation meets school and regulatory standards.
Requirements
- Master’s degree in Special Education, Learning Disabilities, or a related field (preferred).
- Montessori training in upper elementary or adolescent (preferred).
- Proven track record of providing successful math and literacy interventions specifically for the 4th–8th grade age range.
- A deep commitment to the school’s mission, fostering a culture of respect, student agency, and academic excellence.
- Proficiency in analyzing complex data sets and translating them into actionable instructional plans.
- Ability to navigate a dynamic school environment and engage effectively with students in various settings (classrooms, small-group rooms, and common spaces).
- Digital fluency to facilitate digital learning tools and assessment platforms efficiently.
Benefits
Montessori School of Denver offers an excellent compensation package for employees working 25+ hours/week, including:
- Paid time off
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 403(b) retirement plan with matching
- Wide-ranging opportunities for professional development
Pay
Salary starting at $50,000
Schedule
190 paid days per year