Early Literacy Program Specialist

Job Description

POSITION TITLE: EARLY LITERACY PROGRAM SPECIALIST

REPORTS TO: COORDINATOR OF READING INTERVENTION

OVERTIME STATUS: EXEMPT PAY GRADE: 374 (12 months)

Performs difficult professional and intermediate administrative work coordinating, planning, and assisting with instructional programs in the area of English or related subject matter; does related work as required. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Coordinator of Reading Intervention.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Coordinating the development and implementation of curriculum and programs in the area of specialty.

• Maintains current knowledge of development, materials, and techniques in assigned subject area;
• Develops curriculum and assessment instruments;
• Assist with the development, implementation and monitoring of division progress monitoring tools, review and analyze balanced assessment data for the assigned program to inform professional learning, instructional coaching, curriculum development, and monitor progress toward division goals;
• Assists with administering and interpreting Virginia Language and Literacy Screener (VALLSS) data;
• Support district VALLSS coordinator and assists with training and supporting reading specialists and VALLSS instructional assistants;
• Stays abreast of the latest early learning research and supports all elementary schools with observations and feedback, as well as conducting and organizing professional development;
• Assists with the reinforcement of research-based teaching practices as well as evidence-based and science-based instruction;
• Models instructional best practices and strategies to build teacher capacity in all elementary schools;
• Works collaboratively with Title I Literacy Coaches, Title I Interventionists and VALLSS Instructors in all elementary schools;
• Observes and provides purposeful feedback to teachers, reading specialists/interventionists and VALLSS Instructructors;
• Makes school visits to all elementary schools to identify needs;
• Assists with recruitment of teachers;
• Works collaboratively with building administrators;
• Attends division reading meetings and VALLSS related meetings;
• Works with students as needed;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures used in the development, design, and implementation of instruction and classroom management; comprehensive knowledge of learning with a strong emphasis on K-3 grade span; ability to develop and present ideas effectively, orally and in written form; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school principals, other staff and the general public; ability to use technology such as Microsoft Office Suite to include Word, PowerPoint and Excel and the use of other technology tools as needed.

This is sedentary work requiring the exertion of up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to move objects; work requires reaching, standing, and walking; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:A Reading Specialist endorsement is required. A minimum of 5 years of successful teaching is a prerequisite for this position. Prior experience as an instructional coach is preferred. Strong knowledge of elementary education, the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) and the Virginia Language and Literacy Screener (VALLSS).