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Position Overview
The Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) invites applications for a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Specialist position. This individual will provide support to State, Regional, and Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) in the implementation of the MnMTSS framework. The MTSS Specialist will be competent in culturally responsive education and pedagogy and will interact with a variety of educators and community members to acquire and interpret system-level data. This position actively supports and advances the University's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The MTSS Specialist will assist in developing and sustaining opportunities to support state and local educational agencies in scaling up evidence-based practices with fidelity including (1) evaluating and improving their implementation of an MTSS framework, (2) providing technical assistance to school districts and other educational agencies in developing and implementing action plans for improving student outcomes, (3) providing coaching to regional and LEAs on MTSS (4) designing and delivering professional learning targeted toward key needs, (5) building
and/or identifying tools and resources to assist MN schools in improving data-based decision-making practices, (6) leading work around culturally responsive practices and curriculum, and (7) supporting the Wisconsin Minnesota Comprehensive Center (WMCC) in its work with SEA's, LEA's, and other educational agencies.

The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise and experience in the field of education as well as experience in working in school districts and state educational agencies. In addition, the candidate will have experience supporting the implementation of an MTSS framework and be up to date with research around effective educational practices and implementation/improvement science. The candidate must be highly organized and skilled in oral and written communication. This position will report directly to the Associate Director of CAREI's MTSS Core; however, it is expected that the candidate will have the ability to work independently and make daily operational decisions within their projects.

The primary purpose of the MTSS Specialist is to improve the quality of education for all learners. To achieve that purpose, the MTSS Specialist must assist with neutral and rigorous educational research and evaluation projects. The position requires an in-depth level of knowledge in the application of research methodologies used in the field of
evaluation and experience scaling research to practice.

The University of Minnesota encourages a healthy work-life balance for employees. CEHD is committed to an excellent employee experience, offering a flexible work environment that meets the needs of students, staff, faculty, and the communities we serve. Flexible work arrangements may include flexibility in schedule and/or work location. Please note that 100% remote work requires approval prior to offer. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures.

Job Responsibilities
Technical Assistance and Outreach Services (50%)

• Support state, regional, and local educational agencies in evaluating and improving their implementation of an MTSS framework.
• Provide coaching on MTSS implementation to state, regional, and local educational agencies.
• Design and deliver professional learning targeted toward key partner needs.
• Support the development of MTSS deliverables for statewide implementation in the areas of assessment, data-based decision-making, multilevel instruction, infrastructure, and family and community engagement.
• Build and/or identify tools and resources to assist MN schools in improving data-based decision-making practices.
• Provide technical assistance around strategic planning and the development of MTSS implementation plans.
• Identify and respond to requests for proposals from educational agencies and professional organizations for CAREI services.
• Communicate and disseminate CAREI project information at state and national conferences.
• Provide technical assistance around culturally responsive pedagogy and curricula.

Conduct Research and Evaluation (45%)

• Design and lead implementation reviews of the MTSS framework for local and state educational agencies in MN and around the country.
• Design research and evaluation plans to meet the information needs of school districts, non-profit organizations, higher education institutions, and community organizations.
• Work with clients to develop research-based proposals for grants and research/evaluation projects including logic models, methods design, and literature reviews.
• Develop qualitative and quantitative data collection instruments including interview protocols, focus group protocols, surveys, rating scales, and observations to answer the research/evaluation questions specific to projects.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses of data collected for research/evaluation projects.
• Prepare written and oral reports of research and evaluation results.
• Work with external consultants to review literacy curricula to ensure culturally responsive practices.

Coordinate and Direct Project Personnel (5%)

• Supervise Graduate Research Assistants.
• Coordinate project staff and monitor deliverables when serving in the project lead role.
• Hire external consultants and oversee their work (as necessary).

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Education, Psychology, Leadership, Evaluation, or related field, and a publication record.
• Demonstrated experience working with state or regional educational agencies on MTSS implementation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities.
• Experience providing technical assistance to state or regional educational agencies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading and/or conducting multiple large- and small-scale projects involving students, educational staff, families, and administration in school settings, and coordinating the analysis, evaluation and reporting on all phases of the project(s).
• Experience in conducting field-based research in LEAs, schools and social service agencies using mixed approaches including quantitative and qualitative methodologies to research and evaluate programs and policies.
• Ability to work independently, as well as serve on collaborative teams, to make decisions to keep processes moving forward.

Department Overview
CAREI is a well-established college-wide center that serves as the link between research and practice in Minnesota schools PreK-16 and other agencies interested in applied educational and social science research. CAREI's mission is to maximize well-being in schools, families, and communities by becoming the premier hub for making research accessible and actionable to ensure equitable outcomes.

College Overview
The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college and the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. That's why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail or call .

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).