Literacy Specialist

The Lamplighter School•Dallas, TX

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Assistant Head for Teaching & Learning in Lower School, the Literacy Specialist will plan, develop, and implement an effective instructional program to provide targeted support and extension for the Lower School students. The Literacy Specialist will also collaborate with colleagues while maintaining a positive team attitude.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
Knowledge and experience teaching ages 5 - 10 years
Experience in designing and implementing literacy curriculum (preferably a familiarity with the Fountas and Pinnell “F&P” leveling system, administering running records, facilitating guided reading, and the workshop model of reading and writing instruction)
Demonstrate thorough knowledge of teaching practices and a commitment to teaching within a caring, highly academic environment
Ability to teach literacy across grades 1 - 4
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong organizational skills
Creativity in supporting student work
Ability to maintain flexibility in a fast-paced environment
Knowledge of current trends and research in early childhood learning
Willingness to work in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
Familiar with current effective/research-based strategies for using technology

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and implement differentiated literacy lessons that support students in small group and/or one-on-one settings allowing students that need additional challenge an opportunity to engage with literacy concepts in a more targeted way, while collaborating closely with classroom teachers to ensure continuity with the literacy program
Support teachers with relevant resources and materials to supplement or enhance the literacy curriculum
Provide occasional in-class literacy extension in partnership with the lead Literacy Homeroom Teachers
As Faculty Advisor, lead extension activities such as the student literary magazine Barn & Gardens and guide fourth grade students through the full editorial process of this cross-curricular experience
Provide targeted writing support through “Brain Boost” by growing fourth grade writers via small group instruction centered on extra writing practice time, boosting student output and confidence, and supporting organization and elaboration
Lead faculty literacy training, including but not limited to Fountas and Pinnell Running Records, modeling workshop lessons, and managing and supporting the data in the student literacy profiles
Communicate effectively with parents, teachers, and administration
Develop and maintain positive relationships with students, parents, teachers, and administration
Upon request of a teacher or administration, observe students in literacy class and discuss findings to best support individual student needs
Attend all required school meetings and public-relations events, including participation in school committees and extracurricular activities as required
Engage in professional development to stay abreast of current topics in education
Understand and support The Lamplighter School commitment to diversity and inclusion
Perform all other related duties as assigned