Learning Disability Specialist in New York Career Overview

As a Learning Disability Specialist in New York, you play a vital role in supporting individuals with learning disabilities to achieve their full potential. Your focus is on creating an inclusive educational environment that acknowledges and accommodates diverse learning needs.

Key responsibilities and aspects of the role include:

  • Assessment: Conducting evaluations to identify specific learning disabilities, allowing for tailored educational strategies.
  • Intervention: Developing and implementing individualized learning plans that align with students' unique strengths and challenges.
  • Collaboration: Working closely with educators, parents, and other professionals, ensuring a coordinated approach to support.
  • Advocacy: Championing the rights and needs of individuals with learning disabilities, promoting awareness and understanding within schools and communities.
  • Monitoring Progress: Regularly observing and assessing the effectiveness of intervention strategies, making necessary adjustments to support academic growth.

This position is critical in the education sector as it directly influences the academic journey of students with learning disabilities. By providing targeted strategies and support, you contribute to enhancing their learning experiences and outcomes, fostering greater independence and self-confidence. Your work helps break down barriers, enabling all students to access quality education and thrive within their learning environments.

Learning Disability Specialist Salary in New York

Annual Median: $84,720
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Learning Disability Specialist in New York

To become a Learning Disability Specialist, you are required to complete specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the relevant degree programs that can prepare you for this career:

  • Administration of Special Education: A master's degree in this field equips you with knowledge in managing special education programs, legal issues, and effective teaching strategies tailored to students with disabilities.

  • Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching: This program focuses on strategies and methods for teaching adults, emphasizing the unique needs of adult learners with learning disabilities, allowing you to become proficient in instructional design and program development.

  • Adult Literacy Instructor: Pursuing studies in adult literacy prepares you to address the needs of adults facing literacy challenges, which includes understanding learning disabilities and delivering effective instruction tailored to those needs.

  • Adult Development and Aging: This degree provides insights into the developmental stages of adults, including how learning disabilities may affect them over their lifespan, enabling you to design appropriate interventions.

  • Adult Health Nursing: A nursing degree with a focus on adult health can offer valuable insights into the health-related aspects of learning disabilities, including understanding comorbid conditions, and promoting well-being in adult learners with disabilities.

These degree programs form a solid foundation for anyone aiming to work as a Learning Disability Specialist, equipping you with essential knowledge and skills necessary for the role.

Best Schools to become a Learning Disability Specialist in New York 2024

#1Maricopa County

Aspen University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$5,700
Out-of-State Tuition:$5,700
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:7,386
#2Oklahoma County

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City, OK

In-State Tuition:$28,094
Out-of-State Tuition:$28,094
Admission Rate:70%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:2,550
#3Durham County

Duke University

Durham, NC

In-State Tuition:$60,435
Out-of-State Tuition:$60,435
Admission Rate:6%
Graduation Rate:97%
Total Enrollment:18,023
#4Hamilton County

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Cincinnati, OH

In-State Tuition:$10,656
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,990
Admission Rate:86%
Graduation Rate:72%
Total Enrollment:41,155
#5Campbell County

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY

In-State Tuition:$10,208
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,464
Admission Rate:86%
Graduation Rate:50%
Total Enrollment:15,801
#6Hennepin County

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$14,328
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,328
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:39,727
Learning Disability Specialist Job Description:
  • Teach academic, social, and life skills to elementary school students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities.
  • Includes teachers who specialize and work with students who are blind or have visual impairments; students who are deaf or have hearing impairments; and students with intellectual disabilities.

Learning Disability Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in New York

  • Communication Skills: You must effectively communicate with students, parents, and educators. Clear verbal and written communication helps in explaining concepts, providing feedback, and developing individualized education plans (IEPs).

  • Empathy and Compassion: Understanding the challenges faced by students with learning disabilities is essential. You should demonstrate patience and a supportive attitude to create a safe learning environment.

  • Assessment and Evaluation Skills: Proficiency in using various assessment tools and techniques is necessary for identifying learning disabilities. You should be able to analyze assessments and interpret results to craft appropriate educational interventions.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Constructing effective strategies for overcoming learning challenges requires a strong sense of problem-solving. You should be able to think critically and develop tailored solutions for individual students.

  • Organizational Skills: You will need to manage multiple cases and maintain accurate records of evaluations, intervention plans, and progress reports. Strong organizational capabilities ensure that each student receives the attention they require.

  • Collaboration Skills: Working closely with teachers, parents, and other specialists is vital. You should be adept at fostering teamwork and sharing insights to enhance a student's educational experience.

  • Cultural Competence: Awareness of diverse backgrounds and learning styles contributes to your effectiveness. You should adapt teaching methods to suit the cultural and individual needs of each student.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adjust your strategies based on the evolving needs of students and changing educational environments is important. You should remain flexible and open to new methods and practices.

  • Behavior Management Techniques: Understanding effective behavior management strategies will help you address any behavioral issues that may arise in the classroom. Your ability to implement these techniques supports a conducive learning atmosphere.

  • Knowledge of Learning Theories: Familiarity with different learning models and theories enhances your effectiveness in developing appropriate teaching methods. You should draw upon these theories to inform your practice and adapt to various learning needs.

  • Technological Proficiency: Knowledge of educational technology and tools that aid learning, such as assistive technology and software programs, is increasingly important in providing support to students with learning disabilities.

  • Advocacy Skills: You should be able to advocate for student needs and rights effectively. This includes understanding relevant laws and policies, as well as promoting inclusive practices within educational settings.

Job Duties for Learning Disability Specialists

  • Administer standardized ability and achievement tests to elementary students with special needs.

  • Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, or teacher training workshops to maintain or improve professional competence.

  • Collaborate with other teachers or administrators to develop, evaluate, or revise elementary school programs.

Technologies Used by Learning Disability Specialists

Computer based training software

  • EasyCBM
  • Rethink Ed

Device drivers or system software

  • Screen reader software
  • The vOICe Learning Edition

Electronic mail software

  • Email software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Job Market and Opportunities for Learning Disability Specialist in New York

  • Current Demand: The demand for Learning Disability Specialists in New York is consistently strong. As awareness of learning disabilities increases among educators and parents, schools are actively seeking qualified professionals to provide support and guidance.

  • Growth Potential: The job market shows promising growth potential. With the implementation of inclusive education policies and the emphasis on personalized learning approaches, the need for specialists who can develop individualized education plans (IEPs) and work with diverse learners is expected to rise.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • New York City: The largest concentration of opportunities exists in New York City, where numerous public and private schools, as well as various educational institutions and organizations, are actively recruiting Learning Disability Specialists.
    • Long Island: Areas within Long Island, such as Nassau and Suffolk County, are seeing increased efforts to support students with learning disabilities. The demand for specialists in this region is on the rise as schools enhance their support services.
    • Westchester County: This area has also experienced a growing need for Learning Disability Specialists, particularly in suburban and urban school districts that prioritize special education resources.
    • Upstate New York: Regions like Albany, Rochester, and Syracuse are also emerging as areas of opportunity, especially with institutions focused on special education and related services.

  • Collaborative Environments: Many educational settings in New York encourage collaboration between Learning Disability Specialists and classroom teachers, making these roles integral to effective educational practices. This collaborative nature enhances job stability and allows for professional development opportunities.

  • Non-Traditional Settings: Beyond traditional K-12 school environments, there are also opportunities in alternative and specialized educational settings, such as tutoring centers, advocacy organizations, and community programs dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities.

  • Networking and Professional Development: Engaging with professional organizations, attending workshops, and networking with other educators can further elevate your position within the job market. Staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field will enhance your employability and career advancement prospects.

Top Related Careers to Learning Disability Specialist 2024

Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher
Adaptive Skills Instructor
Inclusive Education Coordinator
Developmental Support Educator

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Learning Disability Specialist in New York

  • National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
    Explore comprehensive resources on learning disabilities, including advocacy tools, educational strategies, and research updates.
    NCLD Website

  • Learning Disability Association of America (LDA)
    Access information regarding services, advocacy, and educational resources aimed at individuals with learning disabilities.
    LDA Website

  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
    Find resources related to speech and language issues that can coexist with learning disabilities, along with professional standards for assessment and intervention.
    ASHA Website

  • National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
    Discover guidelines and resources pertaining to the role of school psychologists in supporting students with learning disabilities.
    NASP Website

  • Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
    Learn about the latest research, trends, and policy issues affecting educators and practitioners in the field of special education.
    CEC Website

  • Institute of Education Sciences (IES)
    Access research findings and resources focused on education, including specific studies on learning disabilities.
    IES Website

  • NYC Department of Education - Students with Disabilities
    Review resources and programs specifically tailored for students with disabilities within New York City public schools.
    NYC Department of Education Website

  • Learning Disabilities Network (LDN)
    Offers professional development training and resources for educators working with students with learning disabilities.
    LDN Website

  • Understood
    A nonprofit organization providing resources for parents and educators to help children with learning and attention issues succeed in school and life.
    Understood Website

  • Academy of Special Education Professionals (ASEP)
    Access certification programs, courses, and additional resources to enhance your knowledge and skills in the field of special education.
    ASEP Website

Utilizing these resources will support your professional growth, enhance your understanding of learning disabilities, and enable you to stay updated on the best practices and policies in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Learning Disability Specialist in New York

  • What education is required to become a Learning Disability Specialist?
    To become a Learning Disability Specialist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in special education, psychology, or a related field. Many positions require a master's degree or additional certification in special education or learning disabilities.

  • What certifications are available for Learning Disability Specialists?
    Common certifications include the Certified Learning Disabilities Specialist (CLDS) and various state-issued teaching licenses or certifications in special education. You can find certification programs through organizations such as the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET).

  • What skills are important for a Learning Disability Specialist?
    Essential skills include strong communication abilities, patience, empathy, analytical thinking, and adaptability. Familiarity with individualized education plans (IEPs) and various teaching strategies tailored to learning disabilities is also crucial.

  • Where do Learning Disability Specialists typically work?
    Learning Disability Specialists work in various settings, including public and private schools, educational institutions, rehabilitation centers, and consulting firms. Some may also offer private assessment and tutoring services.

  • What is the role of a Learning Disability Specialist?
    Your role will involve assessing students for learning disabilities, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), implementing tailored teaching strategies, and collaborating with teachers, parents, and other professionals to support student success.

  • What is the job outlook for Learning Disability Specialists in New York?
    The job outlook is positive, as there is increasing recognition of learning disabilities and a growing demand for qualified specialists to support diverse learners. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years.

  • What are the average salaries for Learning Disability Specialists in New York?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and the specific setting of employment. As of recent data, the average salary for a Learning Disability Specialist in New York typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year.

  • Is continuing education important for Learning Disability Specialists?
    Yes, continuing education is important to stay updated on best practices, new research, and legal changes related to special education. Many states require ongoing professional development to maintain certifications.

  • What challenges do Learning Disability Specialists face?
    Challenges may include addressing the diverse needs of students, collaborating with families and educators, and keeping up with administrative tasks like IEP documentation. Emotional resilience and effective time management are essential to overcome these challenges.

  • How can I gain experience as a Learning Disability Specialist?
    You can gain experience through internships, volunteering in educational settings, or working as a teaching assistant in special education. Networking with professionals in the field can also provide opportunities for mentorship and growth.