Reading Specialist, Salem Public Schools, Salem, MA [SY 2026-2027]

Salem Public Schools • Salem, MA

23h • Onsite

About The Position

Salem Public Schools is an urban public school district with nearly 4,000 students in 10 schools. Our vision is to ensure that all students will be locally engaged, globally connected, and fully prepared to thrive in a diverse and changing world. We hold dear our core values of belonging, equity, and opportunity in everything we do. We seek individuals who are passionate about urban education and understand the urgency of improving student achievement for all students, regardless of ability, economic status, gender/gender identity, language, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other backgrounds. The Reading Specialist position is an excellent opportunity for an experienced literacy specialist or classroom teacher with special expertise in literacy and a passionate interest in how children develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Reading Specialists work extensively with students to improve specific reading skills and build student capacity to manage the demands of grade-level reading tasks. This teacher helps students develop proficient reading skills that will contribute to their academic growth. With focused work underway to support and improve core instruction, the district is intensifying its focus on refining and strengthening Tier 2 interventions in literacy. The Reading Specialist will administer diagnostic assessments; determine appropriate interventions that are data-informed, evidence-based, and coherent with Tier 1 instruction; deliver instruction; and monitor student progress. The role requires close coordination with classroom teachers and the Literacy Coach, as well as other literacy specialists.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (Required)
• Massachusetts teaching certification/licensure (Reading Specialist licensure is preferred)
• Three or more years of successful literacy teaching at the elementary level
• Experience with effectively using and monitoring evidence-based Tier 2 reading interventions (experience with Enhanced Core Reading Instruction - ECRI strongly preferred)
• Deep understanding of foundational skills reading instruction
• Experience working in a diverse, urban environment (preferred)
• Knowledge of and experience using SEI strategies and other approaches to differentiated instruction
• Extensive knowledge of the MA ELA curriculum frameworks/standards
• Strong content and pedagogical knowledge in ELA
• Experience with standards-based practices and effective use of student data
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively with teachers
• Experienced in matching student needs to appropriate core and Tier II interventions
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively with colleagues
• Bilingual candidates and candidates of color strongly encouraged to apply
• Current authorization to work in the United States
• Holds an unwavering belief that every student in Salem can grow and succeed
• Skilled in providing equitable access to the curriculum, particularly in underserved populations
• Able to work collaboratively and flexibly as part of a building team
• Has a strong work ethic, is self-directed, and has the ability to work independently
• Self-reflects and accepts feedback with a growth mindset

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree (Preferred)
• Reading Specialist licensure is preferred
• Experience with Enhanced Core Reading Instruction - ECRI strongly preferred
• Experience working in a diverse, urban environment (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Administers and scores reading assessments to identify student needs and monitor progress on a predetermined, regular basis
• Shares data with classroom teacher and the literacy coach
• In collaboration with the classroom teacher, develops plans for small group instruction (core or Tier II), including determining needs-based grouping, providing resources, and delivering targeted instruction that is data-informed, evidence-based, and coherent with Tier 1 instruction
• With the Principal and the Literacy Coach, develops a schedule that best meets the needs of the school and students
• Supports students in classes across the curriculum, including English, Social Studies/History, Science, and other classes where inadequate reading skills interfere with student learning
• Participates in monthly job-alike meetings with other district Reading Specialists
• Engages in advanced training opportunities designed to strengthen content knowledge, pedagogy, and coaching skills, as well as knowledge of Dual Language when appropriate
• Supports the school data team in monitoring progress toward meeting grade-level and school-wide ELA goals

Benefits

• Group Insurance Commission (GIC) benefits to all full-time employees

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level