Reading Specialist

Aspire Living & Learning • Trumbull, CT

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Aspire Living & Learning is seeking a Reading Specialist to improve students’ reading skills through collaboration with and development of the school team. The role supports neurodiverse students and focuses on individualized literacy instruction in an inclusive, structured environment. The position is based in Trumbull, Connecticut, with one day per week in Naugatuck, Connecticut, and runs Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Reading Specialist assesses student reading abilities, develops and implements interventions aligned with IEP goals, provides direct evidence-based reading instruction, monitors student progress, and contributes to IEP planning. The role also includes collaboration with multidisciplinary colleagues and professional development for staff. Additional responsibilities may be assigned by supervisors or team leaders, and reassignment may be required.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Reading, Literacy, Special Education, or a related field.
• Certification as a Reading Specialist and/or Special Education Teacher, as required by the state.
• Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in a special education or literacy-focused setting.
• Knowledge of multisensory reading programs and strategies tailored to students with learning disabilities.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to inclusive education and differentiated instruction.
• Satisfactory background checks.
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record.

Responsibilities

• Assess students’ reading abilities using formal and informal assessments to determine individual needs.
• Develop and implement individualized reading intervention plans aligned with students’ IEP goals.
• Collaborate with special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other team members to support literacy development.
• Provide direct reading instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension using evidence-based programs such as Orton-Gillingham and Wilson.
• Monitor and document student progress regularly and adjust instructional methods accordingly.
• Participate in IEP meetings, contribute to goal development, and provide data to support decision-making.
• Offer professional development and support to staff on best practices for literacy instruction for students with special needs.
• Maintain a positive, inclusive, and structured classroom environment that encourages student growth and confidence in reading.
• Perform additional job responsibilities assigned by supervisors or team leaders to support the organization’s smooth operation.
• Accept reassignment as required.

Benefits

• 8 weeks of PTO annually, including personal time, mental health days, and school vacations.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, with vision coverage included at no extra cost.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options.
• Lifestyle Spending Accounts through JOON, with monthly funds for wellness, fitness, commuting, childcare, pet care, and more.
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 100% employer match on contributions up to 2% of salary.
• Professional growth opportunities, including training, leadership and management courses, mentorship, and career advancement.
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Telehealth services.

What This Job Offers

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