Education Specialist- Lincoln at Hands Of Heartland – Lincoln, Nebraska

At Hands of Heartland, we believe that people with developmental disabilities are people first. We will always place the person before the program — striving daily to embody the message our name states.

Education Specialist

Job Summary

The Transition Program serves students with disabilities ages 14-21, who demonstrate continuing needs in the areas of functional life skills, community involvement, pre-employment skills and daily living following the completion of 12th grade at a traditional high school.

The Education Specialist will manage the transition program under the direction of a Nebraska certified Special Education Teacher. This position will facilitate learning for students while creating a positive learning environment. Maintains progress, records, and attendance. Works collaboratively with students, parents, staff, and other team members to provide and implement services to meet the needs of each student. Maintains a safe environment with clearly defined expectations with consistent procedures and routines.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Follow lesson plans provided by preparing and presenting the lessons.
• Translate lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for instruction.
• Plan for and use Paraprofessionals effectively to support the students.
• Provide instruction tailored to the student's unmet transition needs.
• Maintain a classroom/work atmosphere conducive to enhancing interpersonal relationships, social skills, problem resolution, and decision making.
• Develop students' cognitive capacity and respect for learning.
• Positively foster students' self-esteem.
• Plan for and guide the learning process to help students achieve program objectives.
• Select and use effective instructional methods and learning materials.
• Maintain open lines of communication with parents, guardians, and staff.
• Coordinate with other HOH staff members and participates in meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Three to five years’ experience working with students with disabilities required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Must possess well developed interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with all levels of staff inside and outside the organization.
• Skilled in organization, time management, communication, and positive interpersonal skills.
• Excellent skills in verbal and written communication.
• Ability to understand the individual needs of each student.
• Must have sufficient knowledge of computer systems (Word, Excel and Outlook)
• Extensive knowledge of accepted standards of practice and ability to provide instruction and direction.
• Displays a significant degree of professionalism and confidentiality.
• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and special education students.

Essential Functions/Physical Requirements

Good hearing and visual skills; ability to bend, stoop, sit, stand, reach, and lift up to 25 pounds.

Schedule and Shift

This position will be part-time during the school year with the possibility of hours available in other departments when school is out.

If you're ready to build a meaningful career and make a lasting impact in your community, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the Hands of Heartland family!