Reading Specialist

Teacher/Professional - District Office - Career & Technical Education Job Number 0000765353 Start Date Open Date 08/07/2026 Closing Date ROLE AND PURPOSE: Strengthen the connection between K-12 education and industry, equipping students with real-world experiences, essential skills, and preparation for postsecondary success by overseeing a menu of industry and work force engagement opportunities. These opportunities include school-based activities, mentoring, practicum or internships, career talks, and job shadowing. The Specialist will facilitate student learning through recruiting prospective business mentors, working with AISD to vet all volunteers, providing mentor training to faculty, students, and volunteers while working in conjunction with school faculty to develop a mentorship curriculum, arrange for guest speakers, and job shadowing events. QUALIFICATIONS: Education/Certification: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution Valid Texas CTE teaching certification (preferred) Experience: Minimum three years of teaching experience as a classroom teacher (preferred) Minimum of three years of experience in supervising various work-based learning programs and the skills required to supervise a quality program. (preferred) MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: I. INSTRUCTIONAL MANAGEMENT Knowledge of Career and Technical Education programs Identify, develop, and advocate for paid/unpaid practicum opportunities in Arlington and the surrounding area businesses/industries for high school students in AISD Maintain and submit a weekly log of employer contacts to the appropriate CTE administrative staff II. SCHOOL/ORGANIZATION CLIMATE The CTE Work-Based Learning Specialist will work with CTC administrative staff, high school practicum teachers, all P-TECH administrative staff, and CTE department staff to work jointly in developing new sites in the Arlington and surrounding areas Supports the district goals and objectives Relates to all CTE staff and students in ways that convey equality and mutual respect Responds appropriately to situations that could impair the teaching and learning process or could threaten the safety and well-being of students and staff III. SCHOOL/ORGANIZATIONAL IMPROVEMENT Coordinate, conduct, or participate in activities that contribute to the effective operation of the school including submission of a year-long program of activities Demonstrate leadership ability Demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with other professionals Collaborate with counselors to assist in strategic placement and scheduling of students in practicum classes Collaborate with counselors to prepare all students for interviews, through workshops, written materials and/or one-on-one phone calls/meetings Collaborate with counselors to create and implement workshop sessions on professional etiquette, practicum readiness, resume and cover letter writing, interviewing, and career transition Collaborate with counselors to provide informational meetings and events to students and parents Identify, develop, and advocate for teacher, counselor, and administrator externship opportunities in Arlington and the surrounding area businesses/industries for CTE staff. IV. ADMINISTRATION AND FISCAL/FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Ensure all practicum training agreements are completed accurately, and are kept securely Ensure that all updated/approved documents are signed by the appropriate party(s) Ensure that the appropriate Release of Insurance and agreements are provided to participants (Employers) and any other required documents Assist practicum teachers to provide employers and students with the most current, up-to-date practicum documents Assist practicum teachers to maintain the records of all students who participate in a practicum Ensure all practicum agreements are renewed on an annual basis (calendar year) Maintain and formulate an Employer Packet that is reviewed with practicum teachers, employers, CTE administrative team Collaborate with practicum teachers to update student and employer records in a timely and consistent manner Submit all marketing materials, publications, forms, letters, presentations, etc. to CTE Director for approval before distribution Collect and analyze data on WBL program effectiveness. Prepare reports and presentations on WBL program outcomes. V. STUDENT MANAGEMENT Identify, develop, and advocate for paid/unpaid practicum opportunities in Arlington and the surrounding area businesses/industries for high school students in AISD Match AISD students enrolled in a practicum with an appropriate practicum experience based on the student's areas of interest and career/college goals Student selection/admissions: Assist practicum teacher to review student applications, schedule and conduct admissions interviews, and making acceptance decisions based on each student's qualifications and objectives in conjunction with practicum availability Collaborate with CTC administrative staff and counselors for student course scheduling Work with students and parents to develop educational and occupational plans Conduct student registration activities Provide information to students and parents about course offerings, postsecondary training, college, financial aid, and careers Assist students and parents with postsecondary planning during guidance lessons, presentations, and individual academic conferences Maintain accurate information about graduation requirements, courses offerings, and program options Assist students with application and resume development for employment opportunities including reviewing and editing prior to submission and interviews with employers Assist in placement of students in practicum programs Attend and participate in workforce and college updates Expand Career Awareness & Exploration (Grades K-8) VI. SCHOOL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS Maintain a high level of integrity and service at all times Apply good public relation skills when working with school personnel and community members Establish and maintain open channels of communication and professional relationships with students, parents, teachers, comprehensive high school counselors, and other school personnel Support the CTC principal and counselors in targeting, cultivating and sustaining practicum, enrichment and career opportunities for AISD students Collaborate with the AISD Parent and Community Engagement Department for potential partnerships Plan and host events such as career days, STEM nights, and employer-aligned project-based learning opportunities, fostering lasting collaboration between K-8 schools and businesses. Collaborate and assist practicum teachers to: Build a positive relationship between the teacher and business partner; Approve job site prior to the student beginning practicum; Review and discuss all forms with the student so he/she is aware of what the employer is asking them to sign; Review requirements of the practicum program with the owner/supervisor of the facility and obtain approval signatures; Conduct employer and student evaluations VII. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT Pursue continuous professional growth Participate in district professional learning Develop a base of knowledge concerning skills and certifications needed for students to enter the workforce and appropriate academic planning Network with other professionals to increase knowledge of academic planning, workforce readiness skills, and college admission Adequately demonstrate good judgement in decision-making and collaborate with the CTC and CTE administrative staff on all aspects of programming, reporting, and special events Performs duties in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner as defined in the AISD and TEA code of ethics Stays current on trends in business and industry VIII. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES None IX. MISCELLANEOUS Performs other duties as may be assigned Nights and weekend activities will be required X. WORKING CONDITIONS: MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computers and peripherals; standard instructional equipment. Posture: Moderate standing; occasional kneeling, squatting, bending, and stooping Motion: Moderate walking Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds) Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress. #J-18808-Ljbffr