Reading Specialist

The Reading Specialist (Diagnostic Focus) serves as the school’s leading expert in identifying
the root causes of literacy challenges. Unlike a general literacy coach, this role is deeply rooted
in clinical assessment and data-driven intervention. You will be responsible for administering
advanced diagnostic tools, interpreting complex cognitive-linguistic profiles, and designing "Tier
3" intensive instructional plans for students who struggle most with reading and writing.

Primary Responsibilities
1. Advanced Diagnostic Evaluation

● Conduct comprehensive assessments for students referred through the MTSS
(Multi-Tiered System of Supports) or Special Education process.
● Identify specific markers of Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and other language-based
learning disabilities.
● Evaluate core literacy components including phonological processing, rapid automatic
naming (RAN), decoding efficiency, and language comprehension.

2. Data Interpretation & Reporting
● Analyze assessment data to create detailed Literacy Profiles for individual students.
● Translate complex data into actionable classroom strategies for teachers and IEP teams.
● Monitor progress using curriculum-based measures (CBMs) to ensure interventions are
working.

3. Intensive Intervention Design
● Develop and occasionally deliver Evidence-Based Interventions (e.g.,
Orton-Gillingham, Wilson Reading System) for students in the lowest percentiles.
● Collaborate with the Special Education team to write measurable literacy goals for
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

4. Consultation & Leadership
● Serve as a key member of the Child Study Team and MTSS Committee.
● Provide professional development to staff on the Science of Reading and how to
interpret diagnostic data.
● Advise parents on assessment results and provide home-based literacy support
strategies.

Requirements:  Master's Degree in Reading/Literacy, State Reading Specialist Endorsement, Minimum of 3-5 years of classroom teaching experience with a focus on literacy, proficiency with diagnostic tools (examples CTOPP-2, Woodcock-Johnson, GORT-5). deep understanding of the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy.

Preferred Skills
● Certification in a multisensory, structured language program (e.g., OG, LETRS).
● Experience navigating the legal requirements of IDEA and Section 504.
● A "detective" mindset—the ability to look past a low test score to find why a student is
struggling.