Remote Instructional Support Specialist – ESP (Alternative to Suspension) Program – Part‑Time Student Services Role for Osseo Area Schools

Welcome to Osseo Area Schools – Where Every Student’s Potential Meets Purposeful Support

Osseo Area Schools (ISD 279) is a thriving public school district located in the vibrant community of Osseo, Minnesota. Our mission is to empower every learner to achieve academic excellence, personal growth, and lifelong success. With a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovative instruction, we deliver a dynamic educational environment where teachers, staff, and support professionals collaborate to create meaningful experiences for students of all backgrounds.

Position Overview – Remote ESP Instructional Support Specialist (Alternative to Suspension)

We are actively seeking a dedicated, creative, and compassionate Instructional Support Specialist to join our Student Services team on a part‑time, remote basis. In this role, you will work closely with Assistant Principals, Student Management Specialists, and classroom teachers to deliver high‑quality instructional assistance to students participating in the Alternative to Suspension (ATS) program. This position offers an immediate start date, a competitive salary aligned with the Classification II (2) salary grid, and the opportunity to make a measurable impact on the lives of students throughout the district.

Key Responsibilities – What You’ll Do Each Day

As an ESP Instructional Support Specialist, you will be the hands‑on bridge between curriculum design and student execution. Your core duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Instructional Material Creation: Design and produce engaging charts, bulletin boards, visual displays, and supplemental instructional tools that reinforce key concepts across core subjects such as math, science, and English.
• Technology Integration: Set up, test, and operate audiovisual equipment, interactive whiteboards, and classroom technology to ensure seamless lesson delivery for both individual and small‑group instruction.
• Resource Organization: Locate, catalog, and prepare print and digital materials, arranging them for use in one‑on‑one tutoring, small‑group projects, or whole‑class activities.
• Direct Student Support: Work directly with students in one‑on‑one or small‑group settings, targeting academic concepts (e.g., fraction concepts, reading comprehension) as well as motor, social, and emotional skill development (e.g., decision‑making, self‑esteem building).
• Collaborative Project Assistance: Partner with teachers and students during large‑group projects, including art, physical education, and dramatics, providing logistical support and material preparation.
• Specialized Intervention Resources: Research and procure targeted instructional resources for students with specific learning challenges, such as differentiated math worksheets or reading scaffolds.
• Document Production & Management: Type and format worksheets, tests, and curricular documents; duplicate, assemble, and organize instructional packets for distribution.
• Inventory & Supply Management: Complete requisition forms for laboratory supplies (e.g., cylinders, distilled water), maintain accurate inventory records, and ensure materials are stocked and ready for use.
• Assessment Processing: Score student assessments using computer software, accurately record results in grade books, and communicate outcomes to relevant staff members.
• Laboratory Safety Oversight: Set up lab equipment for student use, provide clear safety instructions, and supervise proper handling of materials.
• Administrative Support: Perform additional duties as assigned by the principal or designee, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Student Services department.

Essential Qualifications – What You Must Bring

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent is required; completion of post‑secondary coursework in education, instructional technology, or a related field is strongly preferred.
• Experience with Youth: Demonstrated ability to engage, motivate, and support children and adolescents in an educational setting.
• Human Relations Skills: A genuine interest in helping and serving students, with a caring, patient, and respectful demeanor.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient with standard computer applications, word processing software, and basic audiovisual equipment operation.
• Organizational Ability: Strong attention to detail when preparing instructional materials, managing inventory, and documenting assessment results.
• Communication Skills: Clear written and verbal communication skills, essential for interacting with students, teachers, and administrators.
• Reliability & Availability: Ability to commit to a 6.5‑hour workday, aligned with the school year schedule, and to meet deadlines for material preparation and reporting.

Preferred Qualifications – Additional Assets That Set You Apart

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, or Instructional Design.
• Previous experience in an Alternative to Suspension (ATS) or similar restorative‑justice program.
• Familiarity with classroom management strategies and differentiated instruction techniques.
• Experience using learning management systems (LMS) or educational software platforms.
• Certifications in first aid, CPR, or classroom safety protocols.
• Multilingual abilities that support communication with diverse student populations.

Core Skills & Competencies – The Blueprint for Success

• Instructional Design Insight: Ability to translate curriculum standards into engaging, age‑appropriate instructional resources.
• Creativity & Innovation: Talent for developing visually appealing educational displays that capture student interest.
• Problem‑Solving: Capacity to identify learning gaps quickly and source appropriate supplemental materials.
• Collaboration: Strong teamwork skills to coordinate effectively with teachers, administrators, and support staff.
• Adaptability: Comfort working in a remote environment while maintaining high levels of responsiveness and accountability.
• Data Management: Skill in accurately recording and interpreting assessment data to inform instructional decisions.

Work Environment & Culture – A Blend of Flexibility and Community

Our district prides itself on fostering a supportive, inclusive, and forward‑thinking workplace. While the ESP Instructional Support Specialist role is remote, you will remain an integral part of the Osseo Area Schools community. Key cultural attributes include:

• Collaborative Spirit: Regular virtual meetings with Student Services staff to share best practices, celebrate successes, and align on program goals.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Commitment to reflecting the district’s diverse student body and creating materials that honor varied cultural perspectives.
• Professional Growth: Access to district‑wide mentorship programs, professional development workshops, and opportunities to attend educational conferences.
• Work‑Life Balance: A part‑time schedule that respects personal commitments while providing meaningful educational impact.
• Technology Enablement: State‑of‑the‑art digital tools that empower remote staff to connect seamlessly with on‑site teachers and students.

Compensation, Perks, & Benefits – Investing in You

Osseo Area Schools offers a competitive salary that aligns with the Classification II (2) salary grid, reflective of experience and education level. While specific figures are posted in the district’s salary schedule, successful candidates can anticipate a package that includes:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and eligible dependents.
• Retirement Security: Participation in the Minnesota State Retirement System (MSRS) with employer contributions.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and personal days to maintain work‑life harmony.
• Professional Development Funds: Financial support for workshops, certifications, and conferences relevant to instructional support.
• Mentorship & Coaching: Structured mentorship opportunities for new staff, fostering career advancement within the district.
• Summer Opportunities: Optional summer assignments, summer school support, and enrichment program involvement.
• Veteran Friendly Policies: Preference consideration for eligible veterans, with a streamlined application for DD214 documentation.
• Accessibility Accommodations: Commitment to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

Career Growth & Learning – Your Pathway Forward

The ESP Instructional Support Specialist role serves as a launchpad for a myriad of career trajectories within education. As you gain experience, you may explore advancement opportunities such as:

• Transitioning to full‑time instructional positions or specialized support roles.
• Leadership pathways toward Assistant Principal or Student Services Coordinator roles.
• Specialist positions focusing on curriculum development, technology integration, or special education.
• Continuing education sponsorships for licensure or graduate studies.

Our district’s emphasis on continuous learning ensures you will have access to mentorship, peer collaboration, and formal training that keep your skills current and your career trajectory upward.

Application Process – Simple, Transparent, and Supportive

Step 1 – Submit Your Application: Click the “Apply Now” button below, complete the online form, and upload your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications.

Step 2 – Review & Screening: Our HR team will review submissions for alignment with essential qualifications and contact selected candidates for an initial interview.

Step 3 – Interview & Assessment: Participate in a virtual interview focused on your instructional experience, problem‑solving approach, and cultural fit. You may be asked to complete a brief sample task related to material creation.

Step 4 – Background Check & Offer: Upon successful interview completion, a conditional offer will be extended pending a background check and verification of references.

Step 5 – Onboarding: Once cleared, you’ll receive a comprehensive onboarding package, including access to our remote work platforms, district policies, and a schedule for your first week of instructional support.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are passionate about empowering students, enjoy creating dynamic instructional tools, and thrive in a collaborative, remote environment, we invite you to join the Osseo Area Schools family. This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to shape the academic and personal trajectories of young learners while growing your own professional expertise.

Apply To This Job

Equal Opportunity & Inclusion Statement

Osseo Area School District ISD 279 is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a veteran‑friendly organization. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. If you require an accommodation during the selection process, please contact Human Resources at HR@district279.org or call 763‑391‑7007.

Join Us – Transform Lives, Inspire Futures, and Grow With Osseo Area Schools

Take the next step in a rewarding career that blends creativity, instruction, and student advocacy. Click “Apply Now” today and become an essential part of a team that is making education more inclusive, engaging, and effective for every student.