Discovery Therapist
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EDEN CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Wexford, PA, US
Summary
The Discovery Therapist provides cognitive educational therapy to students with learning difficulties using NILD techniques. They collaborate with teachers and parents to develop, monitor, and adjust individualized accommodation and modification plans.
Job Description
Description
The Discovery Therapist is called to assist students with learning difficulties including both diagnosed and undiagnosed SLDs, through cognitive therapy techniques. Eden’s Discovery program follows the National Institute for Learning Development (NILD), which has developed a specialized educational therapy program designed for students with learning difficulties. This position is based out of our Wexford Elementary Campus. This is a 4-day, 32 hours per week position.
Requirements
- Distribute and manage checklists from teachers to determine the need for intervention. If intervention is warranted, the therapist contacts the parents to explain the Discovery Program and testing procedure, to send the Discovery Application, and to schedule and administer, grade, and analyze test results.
- Links deficits and weaknesses to NILD techniques and determines accommodations and modifications needed and to formulate short and long-term plans for cognitive educational therapy for the student.
- Creates an Accommodations and Modifications chart for the student and meets individually with the classroom teacher(s) to explain, assist, and answer questions.
- Constructs, maintains, and updates long-term plans and daily records of academic, perceptual, behavioral, emotional progress, and additional identified needs.
- Collaborates with the classroom teacher(s) to maximize student progress and manage accommodations and modifications by assisting with tests, assignments, and instructional strategies, and by presenting prescribed methods to address behavioral or academic needs as identified by the teacher(s).
- Communicates and conferences on an as-needed basis with parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators.
- Monitors and revises Accommodation and Modification Charts and short and long term goals as needed to promote student independence.
- Reports the yearly progress of students and supplies the Director of Discovery Administration with copies of requested reports.
- Completes all requirements to renew and maintain current NILD certification for the upcoming year and reports these activities to the Discovery Administrator.
- Additional responsibilities as assigned.
Spiritual and Mission Alignment
- A mature, growing relationship with Jesus Christ and active involvement in an evangelical church.
- A strong commitment to Christian education and alignment with Eden’s Statement of Faith and educational philosophy.
- A servant-leader attitude demonstrated through Christlike character, speech, and actions (Luke 6:40).
Education and Professional Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Education, or a related field required
- NILD Certification, or willingness to obtain within first year
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills
- Great interpersonal skills and ability to establish relationships with parents, students, and staff
- Flexible, adaptable, and able to work well with multiple demands
- Detail oriented and organized
- A self-starter who is capable of taking initiative including the ability to think ahead and work flexibly
- Professional appearance and behavior
- Proficient in modern digital tools (Gmail, Word, Excel, presentation software, Canva, etc.).
- Understanding of current educational trends and the distinctives of Christian education.
Physical Requirements to Fulfill the Essential Functions of this Job
- Ability to work on a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to move throughout campus, including climbing stairs and accompanying students/staff as needed.
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally.
- Must possess adequate vision and mobility to supervise classrooms and respond to emergencies.
Clearances Required
- PA Act 114 FBI Fingerprint Clearance
- PA Act 151 Child Abuse Clearance
- PA Act 34 Criminal Background Check
(All must be current within one year)
Compensation
- Salary commensurate with qualifications.
Why Join Eden?
- Lead in a flourishing, mission-driven school community
- Influence students’ lives with both academic excellence and eternal purpose
- Collaborate with a passionate, Christ-centered team
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Beautiful campuses in the Pittsburgh area
