Position Information

This position is a 1.0 FTE position (190 days), supporting District Wide. Starting salary is based on education and years of experience. This position is fully benefit eligible, please click here to review the full contract and benefits offered.

Job Summary

The Pathway Navigator, serving in a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) role, supports the development and implementation of a 0-to-Associate’s Degree (60-credit) Apprenticeship Pathway Program aligned to the existing Teacher Apprenticeship Program. This position partners with postsecondary institution(s) to embed workplace learning, reduce barriers to entry, and strengthen the pipeline of future special education teachers.

The Pathway Navigator provides support to pre-apprentices and pathway participants through coordination of wraparound supports, assistance with work–school balance, development of training resources (including Google Classroom), and collaboration with the Teacher Apprenticeship Sponsor and other partners.

Functional Specific Responsibilities

Partner with postsecondary institution(s) to support the design of accessible pathways for Education Assistant Specialists/Support Staff with some or no postsecondary credits to earn the credits required for entry into the Teacher Apprenticeship Program.
Collaborate with community partners, including postsecondary institutions, the Minnesota Teachers Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee, leaders within 916 and member districts, and district apprenticeship staff, to strengthen and align apprenticeship pathway efforts.
Provide direct support to current Apprentice Pathway Candidates through wraparound services, guidance on balancing work and school responsibilities, development of training and support materials (such as Google Classroom resources), and collaboration with the Teacher Apprenticeship Sponsor to address pathway and program needs.
Support efforts to reduce barriers, strengthen support systems, and build a sustainable pipeline of future special education teachers.
Support Apprentice Pathway Candidates enrolled in college coursework through regular check-ins, coaching, and mentoring.
Facilitate meetings with Apprentice Pathway Candidates completing general education coursework required for apprenticeship eligibility.
Partner with administration to elevate and help resolve issues, concerns, or conflicts impacting Apprentice Pathway Candidates or program implementation.
Communicate program successes, challenges, and emerging needs to the District Apprenticeship Coordinator and Apprenticeship Program Liaison.
Maintain ongoing communication and regular check-ins with Apprentice Pathway Candidates to monitor progress and provide support.
Other duties as assigned.

Typical Class Responsibilities

Implements and delivers instructional activities to students; instructs and monitors students in the use of learning materials and resources; monitors and assesses student progress and competency mastery, which includes: identifying appropriate assessment methods; developing and administering tests; grading assigned student work; providing performance feedback; and performing other related activities.
Develops, implements, and evaluates curriculum; establishes learning objectives; prepares and evaluates lesson plans; evaluates and selects instructional resources and/or specialized resources; adapts materials and curriculum to meet the needs of students with varying backgrounds, learning styles, and special needs.
Manages student behavior, which includes: developing and implementing classroom rules and applicable disciplinary procedures; assisting in the administration of applicable behavioral policies and rules; and providing appropriate interventions and strategies to address behavior issues.
Maintains accurate and complete student records including grades, achievements, development, and attendance; ensures Due Process rights of students are maintained, as applicable; and develops and writes Individualized Educational Plans and associated reports, as applicable.
Participates in a variety of meetings, which may include: parent or guardian conferences, special education briefings, staff and/or committee meetings, staff development sessions, and/or other related meetings.
Performs related support functions, which may include: preparing correspondence and reports; responding to inquiries; and performing related duties.
Provides feedback to education and student assistants; gives direction to assistants as necessary.
Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Training and Experience Requirements

Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 3-5 years of special education teaching experience.
Demonstrated project management skills, including the ability to prioritize work, manage timelines, and allocate resources effectively.
Demonstrated leadership experience. Knowledge of, or ability to quickly develop, a strong understanding of the scope and sequence of the teacher apprenticeship program and how to support candidates through the pathway into the program.
Coaching and/or mentoring experience preferred.
Experience in program development, implementation, or continuous improvement preferred.

Licensing Requirements

Licensure from the MN Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board in Autism Spectrum Disorder (B-12) and/or Emotional Behavioral Disorders (K-12).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to manage and handle sensitive information appropriately.
Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in using computers and related software applications.
Strong interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to effectively interact with coworkers, partners, supervisors, and the public to exchange information, provide direction, and support collaborative work.

Physical Requirements

Positions in this class typically require: climbing, balancing, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, use of fingers, grasping, talking, hearing, and seeing.

Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.

Commitment to Equity

At Northeast Metro 916, equity means that everyone has access to what they need in order to learn, grow and thrive.

Northeast Metro 916 will not discriminate against individuals based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, age or sexual orientation.

TOSA - Apprentice Pathway Navigator