Literacy Instructional Specialist at Propel McKeesport

Propel McKeesport seeks a Literacy Instruction Specialist. This position is for the 2026-2027 school year.

This position provides scholars with reading instruction explicitly using Evidence Based Literacy Instruction. This position will analyze assessment data and provide push-in and pull-out research-based intervention in literacy to students that are currently below grade level based on analysis of the formal school-wide assessments, teacher input, and other assessment instruments.

• Compensation: Based on relevant prior work experience, our salary scale at $31,939 (see salary scale here, year 4-group D)
• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision plan options at a low cost for individual employees and families. 
• Retirement: New hires participate in a 403(b); Propel contributes 5% automatically and matches up to 4%. This increases after 5 years. 
• Paid Leave: In addition to 2 paid Wellness Days annually, you will receive 5 sick days and 9 Personal Days
• Tuition Assistance: Reimbursement of up to $3,000 annually upon completion of course and receipt of grades for coursework that meets our eligibility requirements. 
• Wellness Benefit: Reimbursement of $20 per month for wellness activities including Gym Memberships, health programs, etc. Additionally, staff have the ability to earn up to $300 for participation in a Wellness Program each year.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. K-2 Literacy Instructional Specialists will administer literacy  assessments to students several times per year.
2. Utilize best practice instructional strategies and research-based intervention methods and strategies to meet the learning needs of identified students.
3. Model the use of intervention strategies, through their use in the classroom, to general and special education educators.  
4. Analyze existing student achievement data and administer student assessment and progress monitoring instruments as needed to aid in the diagnosis of reading deficits and progress monitoring of identified students.
5. Attend professional development opportunities that promote improved instructional strategies and support researched-based resource materials needed to implement the intervention program successfully and support/maintain professional growth.
6. Communicate regularly with the Title I Schoolwide Programs Coordinator and utilize the support and feedback provided to improve practice.
7. Perform any other task as determined by the Title I Schoolwide Programs Coordinator.

Essential Mindsets  

• Own It. We work hard, set goals, and take responsibility for our scholars learning. 
• Walk Through the Door. We show up on time with a positive mindset and never give up on what’s possible for our scholars. 
• Look in the Mirror. Our staff is accountable, dedicated and honest. 
• Treat Others the Way You Want to be Treated. Our staff are culturally competent. In all interactions they are courteous, engaged and empathetic. 
• Do Your Part. We make connections with our scholars, our families, our colleagues and our community and realize that education is a team effort. 

Qualifications:

1. An associate’s (or higher) degree
2. Meeting a rigorous standard of quality that demonstrates, through a formal assessment, knowledge of and the ability to assist in literacy instruction.
3. Ability to learn various technological resources.
4. Education related Field or Work Experience
5. Ability to work collaboratively in a non-traditional, Urban education environment

Disclaimer:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Organizational Overview

Propel Schools is the largest network of public charter schools in Allegheny County consisting of 13 schools and approximately 4,000 scholars. Our mission is to provide high-quality schools to underserved communities. Each of our schools provide a rigorous academic environment and small class sizes where educators focus on providing each scholar with support and individualized attention. With one of the top starting teacher salaries in Allegheny County, a customizable benefits package and extraordinary career and professional  development opportunities, Propel Schools is one of the area’s premier education organizations.