What are the responsibilities and job description for the Project Based Learning Specialist position at Hartford Memorial Middle School?
Position Summary
The Project-Based Learning Specialist is a support staff position that works as part of a collaborative educational team to engage students through hands-on, project-based, and place-based learning experiences. This role supports students who may benefit from short-term targeted interventions designed to increase engagement, build transferable life skills, strengthen relationships, and improve school connectedness.
This position requires creativity, flexibility, strong relationship-building skills, and a commitment to helping students find success through alternative pathways to learning.
Essential Responsibilities:
Collaborate with special educators, teachers, and program staff to design and facilitate engaging project-based learning experiences.
Support students participating in short-term targeted intervention programming.
Assist in implementing hands-on learning opportunities that connect to student interests, community resources, and real-world applications.
Bring materials, resources, and project ideas into classrooms to increase student engagement and participation.
Facilitate individual and small-group projects that build transferable life skills such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, responsibility, and self-advocacy.
Develop positive relationships with students and serve as a trusted adult who promotes belonging and engagement.
Support students in setting goals, reflecting on progress, and celebrating accomplishments.
Assist students in accessing classroom instruction and school activities through creative and personalized supports.
Work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team and implement plans developed by program leaders and educators.
Participate in team meetings, training opportunities, and ongoing program development.
Maintain a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment.
Support community-based learning opportunities and field experiences as appropriate.
Desired Qualifications:
Experience working with middle school-aged students.
Ability to build strong relationships with students from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs.
Interest in project-based learning, place-based education, outdoor learning, vocational exploration, or experiential education.
Creativity and flexibility in designing engaging learning experiences.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to work independently while also taking direction from a team leader or supervising educator.
Willingness to think creatively and persistently when supporting students who may be disengaged from traditional educational settings.
Demonstrated ability to remain calm, patient, and solution-focused in challenging situations.
Salary : $22 - $30