Duties
Literacy Specialist
The Literacy Specialist’s primary role is to ensure the success of students in the area of literacy. This will be achieved by the Literacy Specialist working collaboratively with classroom teachers to support student learning through data analysis, small group instruction, modeling lessons, etc. The Literacy Specialist will spend approximately seventy percent of their time meeting with struggling students. The Literacy Specialist will spend the remaining thirty percent of their time working with instructional teams to plan, review data, provide instructional support and techniques. A schedule will be developed with administration to determine the most effective use of this professional’s time.
This position reports to the principal.
Essential Functions
Analyzes student, class, grade level, and district targets/goals data and reports data for the purpose of collaborating with teachers to make informed decisions relative to instructional practices.
Collaborates with teachers to prepare lesson plans adhering to district pacing guides and curriculum for the purpose of differentiating instruction.
Confidently demonstrates leadership skills when facilitating and supporting change for the purpose of improved student learning.
Demonstrates exemplary classroom practice and possesses a deep understanding of instructional theory within literacy for the purpose of modeling best practices and improving student achievement levels.
Develops and maintains a confidential, collegial relationship with district staff members for the purpose of cultivating a community of collaborative problem solving.
Instructs students and/or models (in the general classroom or in small groups) for the purpose of improving achievement levels and building the capacity of others.
Leads and participates in on-going and job-embedded professional development (e.g. staff meetings; study groups, demonstration lessons with pre- and post-discussion analysis; workshops; trainings; and seminars) for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information related to district instructional targets and goals.
Prepares or gathers and shares a variety of resources (e.g. lesson plans, pacing guides, classroom materials, reports, etc.) for the purpose of demonstrating best practices in instruction, documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information.
Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the school and district.
Sets personal learning goals using data and feedback to engage in aligned learning opportunities for the purpose of continuous professional growth.
Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
SKILLS are required to perform multiple, highly complex, technical tasks with a need to periodically upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying assessment instruments; operating a variety of technology including using pertinent software applications; preparing and maintaining accurate records; analyzing data; applying curriculum and instructional techniques; instructional design skills; comparing results; problem solving; and the ability to work collaboratively with others maintaining relationships.
KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic literacy, including the use of multiple intervention tools and collecting ongoing student performance data along with goal-setting; review and interpret highly technical information, write technical materials, and/or speak persuasively to implement desired actions; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions. Specific knowledge-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: age appropriate activities; lesson planning; methods of instruction and training; age appropriate activities/behaviors; assessment instruments and techniques; and current and emerging technology.
ABILITY is required to schedule a significant number of activities, meetings, and/or events; routinely gather, collate, and/or classify data; and consider a variety of factors when using equipment. Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; analyze data utilizing a variety of complex processes; and utilize equipment under a variety of conditions for multiple purposes. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with data of widely varied types and/or purposes; and utilize job-related equipment. Independent problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires analysis based on organizational objections; and problem solving with equipment is significant. Specific ability-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: establishing and maintaining constructive relationships; adapting to changing work priorities; setting priorities; maintaining confidentiality; exhibiting tact and patience; working flexible hours, working as part of a team; and meeting deadlines and schedules. Language proficiency, the ability to speak and perform in English is required.
Responsibility
Responsibilities include: working under direct supervision of administration and using standardized practices and/or methods; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others; and directing other persons within a small work unit.
Utilization of some resources from other work units is often required to perform the job functions. There is some opportunity to affect the organization’s services.
Work Environment
The usual and customary methods of performing the job functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling, and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 20% sitting, 40% walking, and 40% standing. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.
Experience: Job related experience is desired
Education: Bachelor’s degree in job-related area
Certificates and Licenses
Valid Illinois Professional Educator License
Designated Subject Matter Endorsement in level of assignment:
Reading Specialist
Continuing Educ./Training:
Maintains License
Continuing Education Requirements
Clearances:
Criminal Background Clearance & Pre-Employment Medical Clearance