Literacy Specialist

Overview of the role

At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to become a confident reader, lifelong learner, and successful student. The Literacy Specialist plays a vital role in helping Club members develop strong literacy skills by providing engaging, evidence-based reading instruction and enrichment opportunities in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

Working collaboratively with Club staff, schools, families, and community partners, the Literacy Specialist designs and delivers multi-sensory literacy programming in an afterschool environment that inspires a love of reading while improving academic outcomes. This position also supports the Club's commitment to youth development by creating meaningful relationships with members and helping every child reach their full potential.

Who You Are

• On your resume. You have a degree and or 3-5 years’ experience in Education, Reading, Literacy, Elementary Education, English, or a related field required.
• Passionate about literacy. You believe reading and writing are the foundation for lifelong learning and are excited to help young people become confident, capable readers.
• Youth-centered. You create engaging, multi-sensory learning experiences that meet youth where they are, celebrate their progress, and inspire a love of learning.
• Data-informed. You are comfortable administering literacy assessments, monitoring progress, and using data to guide instruction while keeping learning fun and meaningful.
• Organized and self-directed. You can manage multiple priorities, stay organized, and work independently while maintaining attention to detail and following through on commitments.
• Inclusive and encouraging. You are committed to creating a welcoming environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background or learning style.
• Always learning. You stay current with evidence-based multi-sensory literacy instruction and strategies and are committed to continuous professional growth.
• You want to make a difference in the lives of our amazing youth. You come to the Club with a purpose and drive that you share with those around you. You become energized being around kids and like-minded people. You set a positive example that our youth and team can look up to.
• You bring positive energy to the organization and understand that there is a balance between work tasks and having a good time.
• You are able to work M-F, some nights, and some weekends.

What You’ll Do (Core Responsibilities)

As the Literacy Specialist, you will lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of literacy programming designed to improve reading achievement and foster a love of reading among Club members.

Multi-Sensory Literacy Instruction

• Design and deliver engaging, evidence-based literacy instruction for individuals and small groups.
• Assess reading skills and create individualized learning goals.
• Monitor participant progress and adapt instruction to meet individual needs.
• Foster confidence, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of reading.

Program Development

• Develop age-appropriate lesson plans, literacy enrichment activities, and family engagement opportunities.
• Organize book clubs, reading challenges, author visits, and literacy events.
• Build and maintain an organized literacy resource library and instructional materials.
• Incorporate creative and culturally responsive teaching practices into programming.

Program Evaluation

• Maintain accurate attendance, assessment, and outcome data.
• Prepare reports demonstrating program effectiveness and participant growth.
• Support grant reporting by documenting measurable literacy outcomes.
• Use data to continuously improve literacy programming.

Collaboration

• Partner with schools, teachers, families, volunteers, and community organizations to strengthen literacy outcomes.
• Recruit, train, and support literacy volunteers and tutors.
• Work collaboratively with Club staff to integrate literacy throughout Club programming.

Club Leadership

• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all members.
• Participate in Club events, staff meetings, and professional development.
• Support overall Club operations and contribute to organizational goals.
• Model professionalism, integrity, and a positive attitude.

Position Details

Role: Literacy Specialist

Reports to: Senior Director of Program Management

Location: Portland - Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine

Compensation and benefits:

• Full Time, (40hrs) Exempt
• Pay scale: $44k - $65k annually
• Health Insurance benefits upon completion of eligibility requirements 
• 401k with company match upon completion of eligibility requirements 
• Employers paid ancillary benefits including life insurance, short term and long-term disability insurance

• 12 Paid Holidays & earned PTO