RESOURCE SPECIALIST DEFINITION Under direction, to teach and instruct pupils in a middle school setting who require remedial and specialized assistance in academic, social and behavioral skill areas; to plan, develop, organize and assist in the operation of a comprehensive educational program for pupils experiencing multiple learning handicaps, to assist instructional personnel responsible for pupils with learning disorders in making an appropriate adjustment to an educational program requiring an increased level of independence; and to do other related functions as required. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES Teaches and instructs pupils with special learning needs in subject matter areas, auditory and visual perceptual training, and fine and gross motor skill development; utilizes an adopted course of study; program instruction guidelines, and other materials in developing lesson plans and teaching outlines designed to remediate diagnosed learning dysfunctions; utilizes a variety of specialized methodology in teaching and instructing pupils and in providing assistance to other instructional personnel, including remedial instruction, demonstration, and activity participation using a variety of educational equipment, materials, books and learning aids; reviews, analyzes and evaluates the history and background of pupils with learning handicaps, and aids instructional personnel in the assessment of pupils with learning handicaps; designs educational programs to meet individual learning needs and assists in implementing the various educational processes; individualizes instructional processes, adapts instructional delivery systems; provides individual group instruction in remediating pupil learning disorders and effectively utilizes the time available for remediating pupil learning disorders and effectively utilizes the time available for remedial instruction; establishes and maintains standards of student behavior utilizing a variety of behavior management strategies and techniques, including behavior modification, reinforcement and other positive behavior shaping processes; assists in the coordination of the individual education planning team, reviews, analyzes and evaluates student academic, behavioral and social growth, records and reports appropriate analyses and perceptions of student progress and recommends changes to pupils, individual educational plans, prepares administers, scores and records the results of criterion referenced and group standardized tests in evaluating pupil growth and progress; counsels, confers and communicates with parents and instructional personnel concerning pupil progress and in the interpretation of the various aspects of the pupils' individual educational programs; arranges with classroom teachers for the placement of pupils in regular instructional processes in areas where they will achieve success; establishes and maintains a suitable room environment through the proper control of heating, lighting and ventilation; performs a variety of non-instructional duties, including curriculum and instructional development functions; student assessment, and parent advisory and consultation activities. QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Principles, theories, techniques, and strategies pertaining to the teaching and instruction of pupils with multiple learning deficiencies; Child growth and development and behavior characteristics of the middle school age child experiencing learning handicaps; Educational curriculum and instructional goals and objectives; and the educational trends and research findings pertaining to pupils with learning disorders; Behavior management and behavior shaping strategies, techniques and methods, and conflict resolution procedures; Socioeconomic and cultural background differences of the general community population. Ability to Plan, organize, develop and assist in the conduct of a comprehensive remedial instructional program for pupils experiencing learning handicaps; Provide effective learning experiences for pupils with a wide range of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds experiencing learning dysfunctions; Effectively assess the educational needs of pupils with learning handicaps and design, develop and implement individualized educational plans; Provide and promote attractive, inviting and stimulating learning environments; Perform research and development activities pertaining to curriculum and instructional programs for the learning handicapped. Experience Five years of successful full-time teaching experience, including two years of experience in programs for children experiencing multiple learning handicaps. Education Possession of a Baccalaureate or higher degree, with emphasis in special education, instructional processes, or subject matter fields commonly taught in the elementary grades. License Requirement: Possession of a California credential authorizing service as a resource specialist, including regular and special education credentials and a resource specialist certificate.