Reading Specialist (Grades K–8)
Reading Specialist (Grades K–8)
Position Overview
Under the supervision of the Assistant Directors (K–8) and in accordance with the policies of the Board of Trustees, the Reading Specialist is responsible for leading Mystic Valley Regional Charter School's Reading Intervention Program. This eleven-month position focuses on identifying and supporting students who are performing below grade level in reading and language acquisition, primarily in Grades K–6, with the possibility of serving students through Grade 8.
The Reading Specialist works closely with students, families, classroom teachers, and school leadership to provide targeted interventions that accelerate literacy development and help students achieve grade-level proficiency. The successful candidate will use data-driven decision-making, evidence-based instructional practices, and school-approved curricula to support student growth and achievement.
Essential Responsibilities
- Identify students in need of reading and language intervention through the analysis of internal and external assessment data.
- Develop and implement targeted intervention plans designed to address identified literacy deficiencies and improve student outcomes.
- Provide direct instruction to students requiring reading intervention services in accordance with established schedules and program requirements.
- Monitor student progress regularly and adjust instructional strategies based on assessment data and student performance.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers, Reading Specialists, and school leadership to ensure consistency of curriculum, instruction, and intervention practices.
- Communicate with families regarding student participation in intervention programs, progress, and recommended supports.
- Prepare quarterly progress reports for students receiving intervention services and ensure timely communication with families.
- Attend parent-teacher conferences and other meetings as needed to discuss student progress and intervention strategies.
- Maintain fidelity to approved intervention programs, including Direct Instruction (DI) and Core Knowledge curricula.
- Ensure that any instructional materials or intervention programs used are aligned with school-approved curricula and established review processes.
- Support newly identified students throughout the school year as intervention needs arise.
- Maintain accurate records of student assessments, intervention plans, progress monitoring, and communication with families.
- Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Assistant Directors or school leadership.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Education, Reading, Literacy, Special Education, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of literacy development, reading intervention strategies, and assessment practices.
- Ability to analyze student data and develop targeted instructional plans.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to establish positive and productive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
- Commitment to maintaining high expectations for student achievement.
Preferred
- Three or more years of experience in reading intervention, literacy instruction, special education, or a related role.
- Massachusetts Reading Specialist licensure or eligibility to obtain licensure.
- Experience with Direct Instruction (DI), Core Knowledge, or other structured literacy programs.
- Experience interpreting assessment data and implementing data-driven interventions.
- Demonstrated success supporting struggling readers and improving literacy outcomes.
Key Attributes
- Collaborative and team-oriented.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented.
- Flexible, adaptable, and solution-focused.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Committed to continuous improvement and student success.
Reporting Structure
This position reports directly to the Assistant Directors (K–8) and is subject to annual evaluation and reappointment.