Early Literacy Specialist

Position Title: Early Literacy Specialist

Term of Employment: 9 Months
Salary Classification: Teacher Salary Schedule

Job Summary: The person in this role must possess knowledge of scientifically based research in reading and literacy practices, early literacy development, as well as instructional expertise in the prevention and remediation of reading difficulties to: 

• serve as a leader in early literacy instruction.
• support colleagues through a coaching model with high-yield best practices in early literacy, learning, and teaching.
• provide specialized reading instruction for K-3 students in need of reading intervention.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES generally include the following. Other duties may be assigned:

• Conduct classroom observations, coaching conferences and provide feedback to improve instructional practices
• Support lesson design and/or co-plan for effective Tier 1 reading instruction
• Provide Tier 1 and Tier 2 support for classroom teachers through modeling and/or co-teaching
• Engage teachers in reflective practice, assess instructional strengths and determine professional learning needs
• Model lessons in classrooms to demonstrate quality Tier 1 instruction
• Support the implementation of the district curriculum, district approved curricular resources and programs, instruction, and assessment initiatives
• Provide assistance in analyzing student achievement data to plan and deliver differentiated instruction
• Design, plan, and deliver site and district collaborative job-embedded professional development
• Work collaboratively with district-level curriculum and instruction personnel
• Serve as a leader and resource to administrators, colleagues, and teachers
• Attend training sessions designed to maintain and advance professional coaching practices
• Communicate regularly with teachers and site and district level administrators

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Knowledge of applicable Federal, state, county and city statutes, rules, policies and procedures
• Knowledge of applicable Peoria Unified School District and departmental policies and procedures
• Thorough working knowledge of all terminology associated with essential elements of instruction and early literacy practices
• Ability to model and to articulate the terms and concepts of essential elements of instruction and early literacy practices with others
• Working knowledge of technology applications
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relations with co-workers, students, parents, and others having business with the school district
• Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of software applications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Must possess a valid Arizona teaching certificate, the K-8 or K-12 Reading Specialist Endorsement, AND a minimum of five years teaching experience OR any equivalent combination of experience and education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:    

• Must be able to pass a fingerprint and background clearance check
• May be required to work outside normal working hours
• May be required to travel to perform work functions