Reading Specialist- Per Diem

Beth Israel Lahey Health • Rowley, MA

7d • $32 - $41

About The Position

The Reading Specialist provides direct reading instruction and intervention services to students in grades 7 through 12 under the guidance of the Education Director and Program Director. The role follows Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requirements. The specialist works with general and special education staff, administrators, related service providers, students, and families to deliver evidence-based literacy instruction, assess progress, and develop individualized intervention plans that support access to the curriculum and progress toward IEP goals.

The position includes literacy instruction and assessment, IEP development and compliance, student progress monitoring, collaboration and communication, and behavioral and social-emotional support. The specialist maintains accurate records, participates in evaluations and meetings, helps create an inclusive and structured learning environment, and stays current with special education and literacy practices. The role is per diem.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Reading, Literacy Education, Special Education, or a related field.
• Valid Massachusetts Reading Specialist License (All Levels) or eligibility for licensure.
• Experience working with middle and/or high school students.
• Knowledge of evidence-based literacy interventions and assessment tools.
• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and Massachusetts Special Education Regulations.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing.
• Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively, listen and clarify, respond to questions, present to groups, and participate in meetings.
• Ability to write clearly and informatively and adapt writing style to meet needs.
• Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from consumers, regulatory agencies, or other service providers.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements described, including frequent lifting and/or moving of up to 25 pounds, with reasonable accommodations where possible.

Nice To Haves

• Training in Structured Literacy approaches, including Wilson Reading System, Orton-Gillingham, Fundations, UFLI, or similar programs.
• Experience supporting students with learning disabilities, dyslexia, and other language-based learning differences.
• Experience analyzing assessment data and developing intervention plans.
• Experience with IEP development software such as Aspen or Frontline/ESPED.
• Experience in inclusive, sub-separate, resource room, or therapeutic classroom settings.
• Training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), de-escalation strategies, or assistive technology.
• Computer literacy in standard desktop applications such as Windows, Word, and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct reading instruction and intervention in accordance with students’ IEPs.
• Conduct literacy assessments, analyze student performance data, and identify areas of need.
• Use evidence-based instructional strategies to support academic, behavioral, social, and communication needs.
• Differentiate instruction and modify curriculum to make learning accessible to diverse learners.
• Use progress-monitoring tools, assessments, and data to guide instruction and adjust interventions.
• Develop and implement individualized and small-group intervention plans.
• Monitor student progress and maintain accurate assessment and intervention records.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to integrate literacy strategies across the curriculum and support inclusion and co-teaching.
• Contribute to IEPs and participate in evaluations, reevaluations, eligibility determinations, and IEP meetings.
• Write IEPs with present levels of performance, measurable goals, accommodations, modifications, and service delivery.
• Maintain compliance with IDEA and Massachusetts Special Education Regulations, including timelines and procedural requirements.
• Support students’ reading comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, decoding, and written language skills.
• Assist teachers in selecting and implementing evidence-based literacy practices.
• Consult with related service providers to coordinate student support.
• Communicate with families about student progress, services, recommendations, and concerns.
• Participate in team meetings, professional learning communities, and required professional development.
• Implement student empowerment plans and positive behavioral supports; support students’ social-emotional and self-advocacy skills.
• Create a safe, structured, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical and legal standards in special education.
• Attend staff meetings, serve on committees as required, and engage in continuing professional learning.
• Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Influenza vaccination is required as a condition of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level