JOB DESCRIPTION:
Purpose Statement
The job of Literacy Specialist is done for the purpose/s of providing support to the instructional process by serving as a teacher with specific responsibility to improve students' success in the area of literacy; supervising students within the classroom and other assigned areas; developing lesson plans and delivering group and individual instruction within established curriculum guidelines; collaborating with other teachers, other professional staff, and administrators in addressing instructional and/or classroom issues; and communicating with students' parents or guardians regarding instructional program and student success.
This job reports to the Director of Curriculum and Learning
Essential Functions
Analyzes data (e.g. student assessment, student achievement, etc.) for the purpose of understanding assessment data to improve literacy outcomes.
Administers developmental testing programs, subject specific screeners & assessments, etc. for the purpose of assessing student competency levels and/or developing individual learning plans.
Advises parents and/or legal guardians of student progress for the purpose of communicating expectations; student's achievements; developing methods for improvement and/or reinforcing classroom goals in the home environment.
Collaborates with internal and external personnel (e.g. teachers, principals, Curriculum Director, etc.) for the purpose of implementing and/or maintaining services.
Coordinates with teachers and administrators for the purpose of serving as a liaison and resource, identifying training needs and/or coordinating professional development services within the District and the community.
Facilitates meetings, workshops, seminars, special events, etc. (e.g. literacy, Family Nights, writer's workshop,etc.) for the purpose of supporting teachers, parents, students, community members, and administrators to enhance student learning.
Assesses student progress towards objectives, expectations, and/or goals (e.g. reading, writing, etc.) for the purpose of providing feedback to students, parents and administration.
Collaborates with instructional staff, other school personnel, parents and a variety of community resources for the purpose of improving the overall quality of student outcomes.
Participates in meetings, workshops, trainings, and seminars for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform functions.
Demonstrates methods required to perform classroom assignments for the purpose of providing an effective program that addresses individual student needs.
Maintains a variety of confidential and nonconfidential files and records (e.g. test scores, records, reports, etc.) for the purpose of providing up to date information and/or historical reference in accordance with established administrative guidelines and legal requirements
Researches a variety of information (e.g. courses, materials, training consultants, best practices, etc.) for the purpose of developing new programs that meet student needs.
Manages student behavior for the purpose of providing a safe and optimal learning environment.
Responds to emergency situations for the purpose of resolving immediate safety concerns and/or directing to appropriate personnel for resolution.
Act as a resource to support teachers (e.g. best practices, research based instructional strategies, assessment data, etc.) for the purpose of enhancing classroom instruction and improving student success.
Serves as a member of the District Literacy team to contribute to the planning and attainment of the short and long-term literacy goals of the district.
Other Functions
Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.
Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications
Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
SKILLS are required to perform multiple, 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: operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications; planning and managing projects; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and using data to enhance learning activities and teaching strategies.
KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or facilitate group discussions; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: evidence based literacy strategies; appropriate codes, policies, regulations and/or laws; age appropriate activities; lesson plan requirements; stages of child development; and behavioral management strategies.
ABILITY is required to schedule a number of activities, meetings, and/or events; often gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use basic, job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using defined methods. Ability is also required to work with a diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data frequently requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is limited to moderate. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: networking and facilitating internal and external groups; communicating with diverse groups and individuals; meeting deadlines and schedules; working as part of a team; leading, delegating and organizing tasks; managing multiple projects; maintaining confidentiality; and fostering positive relationships.
Responsibility
Responsibilities include: working under limited supervision using standardized practices and/or methods; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others; operating within a defined budget. Utilization of resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to have some impact on the organization's services.
Working Environment
The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 75% sitting, 20% walking, and 5% standing. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.
Experience Job related experience is required.
Education Bachelor's degree in a job-related area.
Equivalency
Required Testing
Certificates
Applicable Praxis Tests
Valid Wyoming Teaching Credential
Reading Endorsement or Early Literacy Credential (Preferred)
Continuing Educ./Training
Clearances
Maintains Continuing Education Credits as needed
Maintains Certificates and/or Licenses
Current First Aide and CPR Certification
Yearly Bloodborne Pathogens Training
Yearly Bullying Prevention Training
Yearly FERPA Training
Yearly Harassment/Discrimination Training
Yearly Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
District Background Check