Woodcraft Rangers·Pomona, California
The Inclusion Specialist supports neurodiverse students by designing individualized success plans and coaching site staff on inclusive strategies. They conduct environmental assessments and collaborate with teams to ensure student safety, engagement, and a sense of belonging.
Inclusion Specialist Are you passionate about giving back to your community and serving the youth?
In 1922, Woodcraft Rangers opened its doors in Los Angeles and began its mission of guiding young people as they explore pathways to purposeful lives. As a progressive organization, Woodcraft has always been responsive to the evolving needs of the communities served, and is notably inclusive, youth-led, and rooted in the Woodcraft Way, a holistic framework that develops body, mind, spirit, and service. Continuously at the forefront of expanded learning opportunities, Woodcraft Rangers has a rich history of making a significant impact in the greater Los Angeles area, believing that all youth are innately good, deserve the opportunity to realize their full potential, and should be an active participant in defining their own path. What We Do: Woodcraft Rangers provides TK-12 expanded learning programs, including before and after school, specialty enrichment, and summer learning. In the past few years, Woodcraft has expanded its menu of services beyond traditional afterschool programs and summer camps to include early learning, environmental and social justice, college access, and inclusion services for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Additionally, we offer Lifecraft, a college and career advancement program to support the development of approximately 1,000 staff. Today, Woodcraft Rangers serves more than 20,000 youth ages 4-18 annually in and from 110+ Title I schools across LA County! Ideal Candidate: The ideal Candidate for Inclusion Specialist is responsible for supporting the inclusion of neurodiverse students within Woodcraft Rangers’ Expanded Learning programs. This role focuses on designing and implementing individualized student support plans (Ranger Success Pathways), collaborating with site teams to ensure meaningful participation, safety, and engagement for all student, and address behavioral challenges as needed. Inclusion Specialists develop and deliver trainings on, and model inclusive strategies, coach staff, and help create environments where every student feels a sense of belonging and is set up for success. Why Work for Woodcraft Rangers: Sick time Paid Vacation Paid Holidays Health Benefits 403(b) retirement Pet insurance Lifecraft Upward mobility Career development The opportunity to create a lasting positive impact on youth within your community. Role Overview: The Inclusion Specialist supports the inclusion of neurodiverse students within Woodcraft Rangers’ Expanded Learning programs by conducting environmental assessments, observing staff and student interactions, coaching and modeling inclusive strategies, and collaborating with site teams to ensure meaningful participation, safety, and engagement. Frequent travel to multiple sites throughout the week will be required. Some travel may be required to represent the Inclusion Department at conferences and trainings in locations such as Sacramento or Palm Springs. Inclusion Specialists also contribute to training and integrated support at Camp Woodcraft, in Big Bear CA, helping create a welcoming and inclusive camp experience for all participants.
Design and coach site staff on the implementation of individualized Ranger Success Pathways (Plans) and assist in navigating environmental adjustments and the creation of support materials to meet student needs. Support student engagement in cognitive, motor, academic, and social activities. Monitor behavior and apply positive reinforcement strategies using a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). Collaborate with Site Coordinators and Club Leaders to foster inclusive practices. Ensure safe and appropriate use of mobility and orthopedic devices. Support students in transitions and participation during activities, field trips, events, and performances. Help students build self-esteem and social skills through positive guidance and modeling. Participate in team meetings, training, and family engagement efforts. Perform other related duties as assigned.
High School Diploma or equivalent required. 6+ months of experience working with children in school or recreational settings, or 6+ units of college-level child development coursework. Experience supporting students with intellectual/development disabilities Understanding of inclusive practices and various disabilities. Valid FBI & DOJ Livescan clearance. Current TB Test clearance. First Aid & CPR certification (can be provided by Woodcraft Rangers). CPI Certification (can be provided by Woodcraft Rangers) Skills: Patience, empathy, and a positive, student-centered approach. Behavioral reframing Knowledge of child development and special education needs. Ability to manage behavior and support emotional regulation. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to modify learning materials and rephrase instructions. Comfort using a smartphone for work (stipend provided). Reliable, punctual, and team oriented. Physical Demands: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the following physical demands may be essential for the effective performance of this position. Reasonable accommodation will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions: Must be able to stand, walk, and move for extended periods within large indoor/outdoor spaces. Regularly required to speak, hear, and use hand/arms. Must be able to occasionally lift/move up to 40 pounds. Reasonable accommodation is available for individuals with disabilities. Work Environment and Schedule: We are committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and will actively consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals to effectively perform their roles. This position operates in environments typical of the following key aspects: Active school site and program settings with indoor/outdoor activities. A collaborative team-based environment working closely with stie staff and students. Interaction with children, families, and partner school personnel.
Candidates must have a high school diploma and at least 6 months of experience with children or 6 units of child development coursework. Required clearances include FBI/DOJ Livescan and TB test, with First Aid, CPR, and CPI certifications preferred or provided.
Market context
In California, inclusion and special education support roles are commonly in demand as districts work to serve students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in general education settings. This role is competitive because it asks for both hands-on child experience or child development coursework and current FBI/DOJ and TB clearances. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your clearance status and gather documentation before applying.
