Inclusion Specialist – Early Learning and School-Aged Childcare

(New hires receive a sign-on bonus of $500 (before taxes) in their first paycheck and an additional $1000 when they complete 6 months of employment)

Job Type: Full-time

Who We Are: East Boston Social Centers is a multi-service agency and community center that cultivates community, belonging, and joy. Founded in 1918 to welcome and support immigrant families, East Boston Social Centers continues to proudly embrace “welcome” in all we do. Our core services range across educational, social, and recreational programs to support the diverse community of East Boston and our neighbors of all ages. For over a century, our programs and services have welcomed neighbors of all ages, interests, and backgrounds through our doors.

"When all give, all gain."  This is so much more than a motto at East Boston Social Centers. We seek to ensure all have an opportunity to give and to gain, and recognize the critical importance of being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and organization, where all belong.  We actively seek and encourage a diverse and inclusive workforce that is reflective of our communities. We are strengthened by this vitality and wealth of life experiences. If you are encouraged by an opportunity to do your best work in an environment where your contributions are valued, come join us.  

Job Description: The Inclusion Specialist will be responsible for overseeing the educational needs of children with mental, psychological, learning, behavioral, or physical disabilities. They will facilitate the special education processes that are needed to maximize the potential of students with an array of learning needs. Overall, the Inclusion Specialist focuses on ensuring that all children, including those with disabilities or special needs, have equitable access to learning opportunities and are fully integrated into the classroom environment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and resources for teachers on best practices for inclusive education, including strategies for instruction and creating an inclusive classroom environment
• Collaboratively facilitate training and professional development sessions for staff on inclusion practices
• Support the ongoing partnership with the Grantor (Neighborhood Villages) as East Boston Social Centers representative in Neighborhood Villages’ evaluation of programs.
• Coordinate meeting with teachers, families, and the Director (as needed) to discuss concerns and draft student intervention plans
• Help adapt the environment and curriculum to ensure all children can fully participate
• Conduct assessments to identify the needs of children within program
• Establish and maintain a comprehensive database of community partners, resources, and information readily accessible to parents and teachers
• Maintain detailed records of interventions and progress
• Duties may require standing and walking, sitting for long periods of time, reaching, and lightweight to moderate lifting.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by childcare Directors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Early Childhood Education, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• 2-3 years of experience working with children with special needs in an educational setting
• Strong understanding of inclusive practices and special education strategies
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and support staff development
• Patience, empathy, and genuine passion for working with children

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $60,000-$70,000 and is based on experience and completed coursework. We offer comprehensive benefits including health and dental insurance, 403b retirement plan, PTO (vacation, sick and personal days), life/short/long-term disability insurance, childcare assistance, and more.