Instructional Specialist

The Instructional Specialist supports the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of academic systems, programs, and instructional practices for students in grades 6–12. With a focus on coaching, curriculum support, data-driven instruction, and professional development, the Instructional Specialist helps build teacher capacity, drive student achievement, and ensure alignment to SEED’s mission, core values, and state and network expectations. This position works collaboratively with academic and student life teams to sustain a high-performing, college-preparatory environment for all students.  This position's work hours will be 8 am-4 pm, with additional hours or weekends as needed. This role will report to the Academic leaders for 6-12 and the Chief of Staff. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manage, coach, and support assigned middle and high school teachers to improve instructional effectiveness, student engagement, and academic outcomes.
• Conduct informal classroom observations, providing timely, actionable feedback using TeachBoost and aligned with SEED’s evaluation standards.
• Facilitate individual coaching meetings and professional learning communities focused on data-driven instruction, literacy strategies, and differentiation.
• Support the recruitment, onboarding, training, and retention of high-quality instructional staff, ensuring alignment with SEED’s core values and compliance standards.
• Conduct quarterly reviews of teaching staff performance using established evaluation tools, providing coaching, support, and leadership development.
• Provide timely and relevant professional development to 24-hour staff to enhance academic outcomes  
• Assist in curriculum selection and development, ensuring alignment to Florida state standards and college-readiness expectations across all content areas.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment programs.
• Collaborate with the academic leadership team to design flexible, data-driven student groupings that meet individual academic needs.
• Lead or co-lead the school’s Literacy Team, facilitating monthly meetings to share student literacy data, best practices, and action plans.
• Assist with the development and facilitation of Study Hall, DEAR, after-school tutorial programs, and enrichment activities that promote student achievement and personal growth.  
• Collect, analyze, and use academic data (e.g., reading levels, state assessments, course grades, standards mastery) to inform instructional adjustments and student supports.
• Assist in developing and monitoring Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs) to ensure students are on track to meet graduation requirements.
• Maintain accurate academic records, support grade reporting processes, and ensure student progress is effectively communicated to families.
• Utilize FOCUS and collaborate with the Data Manager to train and support staff on academic platform expectations and functions.
• Support the development and maintenance of the academic bell schedule, including A/B day rotations and 4x4 block models.  
• Foster a positive peer culture aligned with SEED’s 24-hour boarding school model by supporting enrichment activities, leadership programs, and student voice initiatives.
• Partner with the Director of Student Affairs and Director of ESE/ESOL Services to ensure all students, including exceptional and ESOL learners, receive necessary accommodations and support.
• Provide support in crisis intervention, student behavior management, and restorative practices, contributing to a positive school environment.
• Plan and facilitate monthly incentive-based activities on campus or field trips that promote academic achievement, leadership development, and student engagement.  
• Promote and reinforce SEED’s academic mission, vision, and values through daily interactions, team meetings, and program leadership.
• Attend and contribute to weekly academic leadership meetings and area leadership meetings as required by the Head of School.
• Facilitate monthly meetings with academic teams to review student data, instructional priorities, and program initiatives.
• Communicate consistently with families, colleagues, and stakeholders regarding academic programming, student progress, and school initiatives.  
• Actively research, share, and apply best practices and innovative strategies to enhance academic programming and teacher development.
• Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing personal and professional growth through reflection, research, and participation in professional learning communities.
• Ensure school-wide academic systems and platforms are implemented with fidelity and monitor compliance to maintain operational excellence.  
• Support the planning, coordination, and evaluation of the summer school program, Summer Bridge, and New Student Orientation (NSO).
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Academic Leaders of 6–12 to support the academic mission and operational success of SEED Miami.

Core Competencies: 

• Instructional Leadership: Guides the development and implementation of rigorous, standards-aligned curricula and instructional practices that drive high levels of student achievement.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Analyzes academic and operational data to inform strategic planning, adjust instruction, target interventions, and measure the impact of program initiatives.
• Team Development: Recruits, coaches, and evaluates staff to build a cohesive, high-performing academic team committed to continuous improvement and student success.
• Program Management: Oversees the design, execution, and evaluation of academic programs, ensuring alignment with school goals, compliance requirements, and student needs.
• Strategic Innovation: Anticipates challenges and proactively seeks out best practices and new approaches to strengthen the academic program and enhance student outcomes.
• Communication and Collaboration: Facilitates clear, consistent communication with staff, families, and stakeholders, while fostering collaborative partnerships that support a unified academic vision.
• Cultural Stewardship: Models and reinforces SEED’s core values to cultivate a positive, inclusive, and nurturing school culture that supports students' academic and personal growth.
• Crisis Management: Responds effectively to academic and behavioral crisis, providing leadership, support, and interventions that prioritize student well-being and community stability.
• Professional Growth: Demonstrates a commitment to personal and professional development by engaging in ongoing learning, reflective practice, and leadership within the broader education community.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Group Life, Voluntary Life
• 403B Deferred Compensation up to 6% Employer Match. 

•  Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership or equivalent experience in related fields, with training and/or experience in child and adolescent development and adult learning. (preferred)
• Administrative certification (preferred)
• 2-3 years of experience as a leader of an educational community, including but not limited to a residential, boarding school or overnight camping program.  
• 2-3 years of demonstrated success in working with urban adolescents and youth in a diverse high school educational setting.
• 2 years of management and supervisory experience leading a diverse staff of a minimum of 25 staff members with at least 4 – 6 direct reports.  
• 5+ years of teaching experience.
• Pre-Employment Requirements:Drug & Level 2 Fingerprint screening ( https://info.flclearinghouse.com )