Reading Specialist

Reading Specialist The Reading Specialist works with administrators, classroom teachers, campus support staff and central office instructional and support staff to plan and implement quality reading instruction as well as interventions for students in need of support. The Reading Specialist also provides reading and language arts staff development on the campus, evaluates students to determine reading strengths and weaknesses, and plans and implements programming for parent involvement and family reading. Educational Qualifications and Prerequisites Master's Degree Professional All Level Reading Specialist Certification (Applicants enrolled in a program due for completion within one year) Minimum 3 years teaching experience Familiar with state, and district Reading standards Training in district language arts and reading initiatives (preferred) Campus leadership experience (preferred) General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Technology skills to include excellent command of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ability to learn additional software programs Knowledge of laws, statutes, educational codes, compliance requirements, procedures, and practices related to student attendance Excellent presentation skills, interpersonal skills, organization skills, and time management skills. Ability to work independently and efficiently to complete time sensitive matters under pressure of multiple deadlines Outstanding oral and written communication skills to include persuasive speaking abilities Dynamic team skills required in order to work collaboratively and productively with employees, students, parents, and guardians, school board, the community, and other agencies Responsibilities and Duties General Demonstrates thoroughness, reliability and a high degree of accuracy in performing work assignments. Works cooperatively with others and maintains a positive attitude in the work environment. Demonstrates initiative and good judgment in problem solving and decision making. Reports promptly and maintains good attendance. Uses time productively on the job. Follows district policies, rules and regulations Accepts supervisory direction Strives to improve job skills Demonstrates tact, courtesy and helpfulness in dealing with staff, students, parents and visitors in the district. Duties and Responsibilities Provide support services for students experiencing reading difficulties. Evaluate students for strengths and weaknesses in reading/language arts. Participate in development of 504 and ARD accommodation and modification plans. Test students for dyslexia and provide appropriate instructional interventions for identified students. Maintain record keeping on students served for program evaluation purposes. Meet with grade level teams to assist in implementation of reading/language arts curriculum. Serve as a resource for professional materials and instructional strategies/materials. Present staff development sessions for campus staff. Assist administration in identifying campus weaknesses in reading/language arts. Assist teachers in disaggregating and analyzing data from curriculum diagnostic benchmarks. Assist teachers in developing curriculum-based assessments and instruction. Participate in position-related professional development. Provide support for family reading opportunities/other campus reading initiatives. Meet with district instructional specialist for reading/language arts on regular basis and provide information to campus personnel. Perform other duties as suggested by campus principal and district instructional specialist for reading/language arts. Perform other duties as required by state and legislative guidelines for State Compensatory Programs. Working Conditions Ability to communicate effectively (verbally and written), interpret policies and procedures, reason, read, understand verbal instructions, analyze, differentiate, coordinate, compile, instruct, and maintain emotional control. Ability to lift and/or carry moderate weight (15-44 pounds), sit, stand, walk, climb stairs or ladders, reach, repetitive hand motions, hear, speak, travel frequently within the District and occasionally outside the District/county, may experience prolonged and irregular work hours, and work with frequent interruptions. The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required. Pearce Elementary