Learning Support Specialist at Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School – Palo Alto, California

Start Date: August 2026

About Us:

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an independent community school serving students in TK–8. Our mission is to cultivate a joyful learning community that builds students’ capacity for critical thinking, creativity, and moral courage through a complementary curriculum of general and Jewish studies.

Hausner enrolls approximately 340 students and offers a rigorous academic program supported by small class sizes, exceptional faculty, and a strong sense of community. We are committed to educating the whole child and to fostering an inclusive, diverse environment grounded in shared values.

Position Overview

Gideon Hausner seeks a dynamic, committed, creative individual to serve as a TK-8 Learning Support Specialist. The Learning Support Specialist will provide 1:1 and/or small group academic support to students with specific learning needs.

This individual will also support classroom teachers with identifying students who may need learning support. They will also serve as a case manager for a group of students to ensure their needs are met, communicate with parents, outside professionals including tutors, OT/PT/Speech providers, and classroom teachers about these needs, and track and report on student progress using various assessment tools

Professional Qualities/Skills

• Commitment to meaningful collaboration with colleagues and parents.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Willingness to take risks and seize leadership opportunities as they arise.
• Commitment to staying current with research on best practices. Interest in professional growth and continuous learning.
• Interest in improving the school as a whole and willingness to share best practices.
• Ability to be self-reflective and learn from feedback received from colleagues, administrators, and students.

Responsibilities

• Provide small group and 1:1 teaching to students with specific learning needs.
• Provide support to classroom teachers in identifying and meeting the needs of students.
• Recommend accommodations and modifications for students with special learning needs.
• Collaborate with parents and colleagues to develop and implement support plans.
• Serve as case manager for assigned students.
• Cultivate and model a respectful, safe, creative, and inspiring learning environment.
• Use school adopted curriculum and instructional programs.
• Evaluate student work, using both formative and summative assessments, benchmarks, and other school-adopted assessments to guide instructional planning and promote student success.
• Serve as an excellent ambassador for the school, promoting the school’s mission and vision.
• Demonstrate organizational and time management skills.
• Attend and actively participate in all faculty meetings.
• Participate in special school events including, but not limited to, Open House, Back to School Night, special student performances. Attendance at other community/school events is encouraged.

Required Education/Experience

• Bachelor's degree in special education or a related field, such as elementary education
• Master’s degree in special education or related field preferred but not required
• Certification in special education or related field preferred

Experience:

• Classroom Experience: At least 2-5 years of experience working in an educational setting, particularly with students in grades TK-8. Experience in special education settings is preferred.
• Individualized Support: Experience providing 1:1 or small group instruction to students with diverse learning needs, including those with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, etc.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work collaboratively with classroom teachers, special education staff, and external professionals (such as therapists and tutors).
• Case Management: Experience serving as a case manager or in a similar role, including developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 Plans.
• Assessment Skills: Familiarity with various assessment tools and techniques for tracking student progress and adapting instruction to meet individual needs.
• Communication Skills: Strong skills in communicating with parents and stakeholders about student progress and needs, including facilitating meetings and writing reports.

Compensation

• Competitive salary. Pay ranges from $85,000-95,000 annually depending on experience.
• Benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, 403b Retirement Plan, Long- and Short-term Disability, Voluntary Life/Accident Insurance, Work-Life Balance Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Pre-tax payroll deduction also available for Commuter Checks and Flexible Spending Account.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals of all backgrounds are respected and valued. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, or any other status protected by law