Reading Specialist

0.5 FTE Job Description Title:Reading Specialist Qualifications: Master’s degree or equivalent preferred Valid Massachusetts Elementary Teacher Professional License as a Reading Specialist Evidence of successful teaching at the elementary level Evidence of outstanding professional accomplishments and experiences Reports to:Building Principal Evaluated by: Building Principal Job Goals:To support the implementation of: Evidence-based intervention Consistent delivery of curriculum Differentiation of instructional strategies Integration of curriculum across disciplines Assessment and data analysis The responsibilities of the reading specialist are focused in the following areas: Instruction: The reading specialist will be responsible for direct instruction of students in grades K-6 through a Response to Intervention Model. Familiarity with Wilson’s Fundations would be beneficial. The reading specialist will have knowledge of the Science of Reading. The reading specialist will utilize evidence-based practices. The reading specialist must be able to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners. Assessment: The reading specialist must have specialized knowledge of assessment and diagnosis that is vital for developing and implementing instructional plans appropriate to the needs of individual students. The reading specialist should be familiar with Universal Screening and Progress Monitoring Tools (aimswebPLUS and mClass) as well as other assessments such as the Quick Phonics Screener to be able to assist in administration and analysis. The reading specialist must be able to assess the reading strengths and needs of students and provide that information to staff, parents, and the administration. Professional Responsibilities: The reading specialist must be a flexible, enthusiastic, collaborative, and caring teacher with a commitment to helping students. The reading specialist must also possess good communication and interpersonal skills. The reading specialist must work cooperatively with staff and collaborate with colleagues in meeting student needs. The reading specialist must stay current in best practices and implement practices introduced in district-provided training. The reading specialist must be proficient with using technology to plan, prepare and deliver instruction, and to monitor student progress. The reading specialist should have knowledge and experience using evidence-based digital programs to support reading intervention (such as Read Naturally). Leadership: The reading specialist is expected to provide leadership in the area of literacy to other educators, parents, and the community. The reading specialist must be able to design and conduct in-services to meet identified needs. Topics may include reading curriculum, assessment, use of performance standards, and research-based reading strategies. The reading specialist will communicate and disseminate appropriate information, references, and resources for professional development and support to colleagues. The reading specialist will be responsible for preparing assessment data reports for classroom teachers and administrators in preparation for school-wide data meetings. Work Environment: Be able to work in a close environment Be able to work in moderately noisy environment Be able to handle frequent interruptions Physical Requirements: Ability to lift 25 lbs. Be physically and emotionally capable of carrying-out responsibilities and duties in a busy, computerized environment. This position requires hand/wrist movement as in writing or using a computer keyboard/mouse and moderate to frequent exertion in body movements such as reaching, bending and twisting. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine and complex documents and to use a computer.