Reading Specialist

The Grain Valley R-5 School district is seeking an Elementary Reading Specialist for the 2026/2027 school year. A Bachelor's Degree and Reading Specialist Certification is required. Reading Teachers are expected to provide instruction that meets the district goals, mission and benchmarks and will work with students in small groups.

General Responsibilities:

Under the direction of the principal, the responsibilities of the position fall into two categories. As a teacher, the reading specialist is responsible for providing direct instruction to students, individually or in small groups, to enable students to develop literacy skills. As a Literacy Leader, the reading specialist implements evidence-based reading interventions as part of the team. Essential Tasks (These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.) Direct Instruction of Students Facilitate the analysis of student data to inform student selection for Tier 3 reading instruction Provide direct instruction in the areas of reading and writing for identified groups and individual students, with an emphasis on students in need of Tier 3 reading Intervention Literacy Leader Model instructional methods for other teachers related to evidence-based reading intervention and provide possible follow-up support. This may occur as a small group in the general education classroom or in an intervention setting. Collaborate with school staff to analyze school literacy data, plan instruction and plan for future literacy needs. Collaborate with teachers on the use of assessment tools. Select instructional materials to meet the student's needs. Participate in collaborative instructional planning. Coordinate the use of a variety of measures to determine appropriate placement and specific instructional needs of students. Collaborate with teachers around guided reading and/or intervention groups Conduct student observations and provide feedback on intervention support Maintain an organized system and accessible location for the storage and circulation of reading materials. Assist with the planning and delivery of parent workshops and informational sessions involving reading instruction and Title I programing Participate in parent conferences and provide instructional suggestions Assist in the coordination of flexible grouping based on area of need