Reading Specialist

Job Summary:

The Reading Specialist plays a pivotal role in supporting literacy development for students in grades K-6, in alignment with Montessori pedagogy and state academic standards. The specialist will provide targeted reading intervention, collaborate with classroom teachers, analyze assessment data, and help cultivate a love of reading across the school community. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of literacy development, evidence-based reading instruction, and how these align with the child-centered Montessori approach.

Key Responsibilities:

Instructional Support & Intervention:

• Deliver targeted small-group and one-on-one reading interventions to students identified as needing additional support. 
• Utilize a variety of evidence-based reading strategies and assessments to support student learning (e.g., phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension). 
• Monitor student progress regularly and adjust instruction based on data.
   

Collaboration & Coaching:

• Partner with Montessori guides (teachers) to support differentiated literacy instruction in the classroom. 
• Collaborate with classroom staff to design and implement literacy activities that align with Montessori principles and materials. 
• Serve as a resource to teachers by providing strategies, materials, and professional development related to reading instruction. 

Assessment & Data Analysis:

• Administer and interpret reading assessments (e.g., DIBELS, MAP Growth, or similar tools). 
• Maintain detailed documentation of student progress and share findings with staff and families. 
• Participate in school-wide data team meetings to identify students in need of support and monitor progress over time. 

Program Development & Literacy Culture:

• Help create and promote a school-wide culture of reading and literacy. 
• Coordinate literacy events (e.g., book fairs, reading challenges, author visits). 
• Assist in the selection and management of culturally relevant and developmentally appropriate literacy materials. 

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field 
• Valid teaching certification (state-specific), with a Reading Specialist endorsement or equivalent 
• Minimum 3 years of classroom or reading intervention experience 
• Strong knowledge of literacy development, assessment, and intervention strategies 
• Experience working with diverse student populations 

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in Reading, Literacy, or a related field 
• Experience in a Montessori setting 
• Experience with multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS/RTI) 
• Familiarity with structured literacy and Science of Reading principles 

Skills & Attributes:

• Deep passion for literacy and belief in all students’ ability to become proficient readers 
• Culturally responsive and inclusive approach to teaching 
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills 
• Reflective practitioner committed to continuous growth 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 
• Alignment with Montessori philosophy and child-centered education 

Working Conditions:

• Full-time, school-based role following the academic calendar 
• Includes some evening events or professional development sessions 

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume, cover letter, teaching credentials, and three references to Niamh Dolan, Director of Special Education at [email protected]