SY 26/27 Library Media Specialist

KIPP•Kansas City, MO

About The Position

The Library Media Specialist supports student growth and literacy at KIPP Kansas City Public Schools by creating a welcoming, inclusive library environment and delivering library instruction and programming for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The role collaborates with teachers to integrate library resources and literacy skills into classroom instruction, co-plans and co-teaches lessons, and helps students find, evaluate, and use print and digital information. The specialist manages library collections and circulation, promotes reading and literacy events, supports digital citizenship, and uses program evaluation to improve library services. The role also includes Real-World Learning system design and coordination, grant-supported student experiences and events, stakeholder communication, and other school duties as assigned. This is an immediate opening in the Teacher department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Valid Missouri teaching license with the required certification for the assigned subject and level.
Applicants pursuing certification may apply before receiving it; all required certifications must be acquired and on file with KIPP KC before the end of the first year of employment.
Demonstrated knowledge of the assigned core subject area.
Relentless focus on results and commitment to teamwork.
Deep commitment to educational equity and underserved communities.
Commitment to KIPP KC’s mission and values.
Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment and effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and ability to foster an inclusive environment for students, staff, and families.
Ability to build strong relationships within the KIPP KC community.
Satisfactory background check.
Ability to move about inside and outside the school or office throughout the workday.
Ability to attend conferences, meetings, and training sessions virtually and in person within the region.
Ability to travel to the work location.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with teachers to integrate library resources and literacy skills into classroom instruction and support curriculum objectives.
Select and acquire library materials that align with curriculum, student interests, and the diverse needs of the school community.
Teach students to locate, evaluate, and use information from books, databases, and digital resources, including digital citizenship and copyright awareness.
Provide group instruction and individual guidance to K–8 students to help them locate books, engage appropriately with books, develop a love of reading, and strengthen literacy and analysis skills.
Meet with teachers to co-plan literacy lessons for library time and co-teach lessons alongside grade-level teachers.
Consult with teachers about literacy best practices and share that knowledge during professional development.
Plan and promote reading programs, author visits, book fairs, national literacy observances, and other events and initiatives.
Assist with the preparation and implementation of Scholastic Book Fair management.
Integrate technology tools and digital resources into library services and help students and teachers use educational software, online databases, and digital storytelling tools.
Organize and maintain physical and digital library collections, including cataloging, shelving, weeding, circulation, check-in and check-out, inventory, and processing incoming and outgoing items.
Make purchasing recommendations that address user needs and interests and represent the student population.
Collaborate with educators, administrators, families, and community members to promote literacy initiatives and library programs and stay informed about library-science trends and practices.
Advocate for the library media program’s contribution to student achievement, literacy development, and lifelong learning, and communicate the value of library services to stakeholders.
Assess library programs and services through data collection and evaluation, using feedback to guide resource allocation and program improvement.
Create and maintain an inclusive library environment, displays, thematic promotions, bulletin boards, signage, and a free library and donation of withdrawn books.
Carry out student discipline according to KIPP Kansas City’s student code of conduct and policies, and encourage positive attitudes toward the school library.
Maintain effective relationships and communicate with team members, teachers, supervisors, students, families, and other stakeholders in accordance with school policies.
Design and operationalize a system-wide Real-World Learning continuum aligned with Missouri workforce priorities, covering career awareness, exploration, preparation, and training.
Partner with staff and community partners to provide students with internships, apprenticeships, client-connected and project-based learning, entrepreneurial experiences, industry visits, and job shadowing.
Establish quality assurance processes to ensure Real-World Learning experiences are standards-aligned, student-centered, and outcome-driven.
Oversee student placement, experience approval, documentation, and evaluation systems across schools.
Coordinate Real-World Learning logistics, including scheduling, transportation, risk management, and partner communication.
Monitor participation and outcomes to support equitable access across student groups and campuses.
Develop tools, frameworks, and training resources for consistent, high-quality implementation.
Manage student experiences and events supported by grants.
Perform other duties assigned by the Head of School or Division Head, such as carpool, study hall, or lunch duties.