Position Overview:
The Reading Specialist supports, supplements, and extends classroom teaching, and works collaboratively to implement a quality reading program that is research-based and meets the needs of students. The Reading Specialist has specialized knowledge of assessment and diagnosis that is vital for developing, implementing, and evaluating the literacy program in general, and in designing instruction for individual students. They can assess the reading strengths and needs of students and provide that information to classroom teachers, parents, and specialized personnel to provide an effective reading program.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Work closely with the Director of Academics and Director of Student Support Services, and Instructional Classroom Coordinator to ensure a high-quality program for SEED DC students.
- Assist and support classroom teachers and administrators in providing a balanced and effective reading program for all students.
- Plan and prepare small group lessons considering individual student's culture, learning styles, special needs, and socio--economic background.
- Develop or select instructional activities which foster active involvement in the learning process.
- Identify, select and modify instructional materials to meet the needs of students with varying backgrounds, learning styles and special needs.
- Work with and support the classroom teacher in providing a balanced reading program.
- Assist in implementing and monitoring of the reading curriculum, revision, and development.
- Assist with the selection of appropriate reading resources related to identified needs at SEED DC.
- Use technology to establish an atmosphere of active learning.
- Provide students with opportunities to use technology to gather and share information with others.
- Facilitate student access to the use of electronic resources.
- Assist in assessing changing curricular needs and plans for improvement, and meet student, school, and state goals.
- Develop and use assessment strategies, traditional and alternative, to assist the continuous development of students.
- Supporting student preparation for the academic standardized tests (PSAT, SAT, ACT, DC CAPE, AP, or other school selected tests), and following up as necessary concerning those results and calculating the results of testing data for dissemination.
- Interpret test results for diagnosis, instructional planning, and program evaluation.
- Compile pre-program, mid-program, and post program data for project evaluation.
- Collecting, monitoring, analyzing, reviewing, and submitting student achievement, school performance and other data as required by the SEED accountability plan, Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) and DC public charter school regulations.
- Developing and maintaining a safe and positive school environment for all students.
- Communicate, in understandable terms, individual student progress to the students, parents, and professional colleagues who need access to the information.
- Communicate effectively and often with all faculty and staff through regularly scheduled staff meetings, written bulletins, and via email.
Qualifications:
- Masters degree from an accredited educational institution.
- Experience working in Urban Education.
- Praxis II passing score required in the content area.
- Knowledge of K-12 teaching standards and frameworks.
- A love for working with young people.
- A commitment to diverse and inclusive community.
- A passion for teaching in an innovative, experiential, and student-centered environment.
- Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with students, parents, faculty, and staff.
- Personal qualities including resilience, approachability, and kindness.
- Excellent technology skills and experience integrating technology into the curriculum.
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