K-8 Gifted and Talented Specialist (2025-2026)

Job Description

Primary Purpose: Provide identified gifted and talented students with appropriate learning experiences that develop potential and lead to advanced academic achievement. Qualifications: Education/Certification: Bachelor’s degree from accredited university Valid Texas teaching certificate Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of the educational needs of gifted and talented students Knowledge of strategies and materials for the education of gifted and talented students Ability to design and implement interdisciplinary units of study Ability to use open-ended and problem solving approaches of instruction Flexibility and confidence in working with gifted students, their parents, classroom teachers, and multiple principals Knowledge of curriculum design and implementation Knowledge of assessment principals and design Knowledge of statutory and regulatory requirements of gifted and talented students Ability to develop and deliver training to adult learners Ability to interpret data Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Experience: Classroom teacher of gifted and talented students Major Responsibilities and Duties: Instructional and Program Management Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the gifted and talented program. Teach/demonstrate the integration of TEKS within the overall instructional program of gifted students. Plan a program of study that meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of gifted students based on the district’s goals and objectives. Prepare for classes assigned and show written evidence of preparation. Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media which meet the needs and capabilities of gifted students. Conduct student assessments and adapt curriculum and lesson plans accordingly, providing differentiation and/or extensions of lessons. Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to address gifted student’s need. Attend all LVISD gifted and talented program related meetings. Assist in the coordination and facilitate gifted student fall and spring parent meetings. Build professional relationships with colleagues, community, and parents. Develop and revise gifted curriculum. Assist teachers in developing and providing gifted students with enriched or alternative course work through curriculum modification, compacting, etc. to meet their needs a gifted learners and promote high achievement in gifted learners. Travel as required to fulfill responsibilities of the job. Participate in campus professional learning communities (PLCs) to work with campus teachers on instructional planning and extension in all classrooms. Assist in the gifted and talented nomination and identification process, including the planning, testing of students, review of student data, and campus identification meetings. Co-teach and model rigor, higher level questioning, and differentiation for GT classroom teachers on a regular basis to support daily challenge of GT students. Plan, coordinate, and execute Lago Vista ISD GT student field trips Communicate with colleagues, the community, and parents on a regular basis the events, opportunities, and successes of the GT program. Staff Development Develop and conduct or arrange staff development sessions, including sessions on delivery of instruction, enriched learning in classroom settings, and methods for identifying gifted and talented students. Maintain and improve competence through participation in professional training. Provide learning experiences that assist school staff to make meaningful decisions about teaching and learning for gifted students. Assist with maintaining teacher training records. Other Disseminate information regarding current requirements of the state and federal gifted and talented programs. Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly. Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies. Assist in monitoring all campuses during the administration of state assessments, as needed. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other student documents required. Keep inventory of GT supplies and oversee their use and maintenance. Other duties as assigned. Supervisory Responsibilities: None Working Conditions: Maintain emotional control under stress. Occasional prolonged or irregular hours. Move between multiple locations/campuses each day to perform duties as assigned. Salary: To be determined by breadth of experience and the LVISD Compensation Plan (current Teacher Salary schedule 0-30 yrs: $50,000-$70,000) Generous Benefits: TRS Active-Care — The District pays $445 a month toward the employee health insurance premiums; vision and dental offered; cafeteria plan available. Lago Vista Independent School District is a growing and thriving 4A public school district based in Lago Vista, Texas, approximately 20 miles northwest of Austin. Situated on the north shore of Lake Travis in the beautiful Texas hill country, Lago Vista has a population of approximately 10,000 residents. This unique community offers the warmth of a small town, but is within a 20 minute drive to the conveniences of the city – apartment living, shopping, entertainment, and restaurants. Employees who choose to live in Austin can enjoy a drive to and from work against traffic. Come be part of a collaborative work team where you feel part of a family, know all the students by name, and have the potential to truly make a positive impact. For additional information, please visit the district website at: www.lagovistaisd.net.

1/30/2025