The Inclusion Specialist will work with camp staff over eight weeks in a summer camp for elementary school campers at Shedd Aquarium. This person will provide expertise on evidence-based techniques to accommodate diverse learners, both in the planning and facilitation of camp.  They utilize behavior management and conflict resolution to promote a safe and positive experience for all campers at Shedd. This person will provide one-on-one support and oversight of campers as needed to promote COVID-19 safety protocols. The Inclusion Specialist actively participates in reflective activities as it relates to their instructional quality and use of learning supports. This position is primarily responsible for providing supports to learners with disabilities, including using evidence-based strategies designed to facilitate inclusive and successful participation in classroom and outdoor learning experiences.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd's vision mission and values.
• Work with program facilitators to adapt immersive programs to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Apply a working knowledge of evidence-based techniques for youth with varying learning and behavior styles to promote successful inclusion on a daily basis.
• Adhere to and enforce COVID-19 safety precautions.
• Communicate with camp families about individual camper needs.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability when responding to situations as they arise.
• Assist Learning Specialists and program participants with implementing evidence-based learning and behavior supports.
• Maintain resources, materials and programming spaces.
• Collect evaluation data as required with the assistance of the Learning Specialist and Manager
• Other duties as assigned

Time Commitment:

• Participate in camp training before camp begins if available.
• Required:
  • Training sessions
  • Camp Sessions June 14 -  August 6 (Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm)
• Participate in program reflection and wrap up after camp sessions.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, with a preference going to someone with a focus on Special Education

• Minimum 1 years teaching experience in either a formal or informal setting
• Experience providing evidence-based learning and behavior supports to learners with special needs
• Experience working in team-based environments
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Must be able to work irregular hours including occasional evenings
• Must possess strong swimming skills
• Must be physically able to do heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.) to transport equipment and facilitate program activities such as canoeing, hiking, etc.
• A valid driver’s license

Preferred:

• 1-2 years prior informal outdoor/science education teaching experience working with diverse audiences in urban and natural settings
• CPR and first aid certification

Designations/Certifications:

• CPR and first aid certification (advanced wilderness/outdoor training a plus)

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.

If you need a reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. In your application, please feel free to select which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs).