Reading Specialist - Michael Anderson School SY

READING SPECIALIST

I.

General Description:

The Reading Specialist works directly with students daily to provide structured, research-based reading intervention and progress monitoring. In addition, the Reading Specialist supports teachers in implementing scientifically based reading instruction and provides ongoing coaching and professional development. This role delivers classroom-focused, data-driven support that builds educator capacity and improves student reading outcomes. The Reading Specialist collaborates with district and school staff in a professional and supportive manner, uses data to identify needs and prioritize support, and facilitates learning aligned to the science of reading.

This includes supporting implementation of Arizona ELA Standards, Arizona Early Learning Language and Reading Standards, local curricula, intervention programs, and assessment practices to ensure students meet grade‑level reading expectations by the end of 3rd grade and beyond.

• Valid Arizona Elementary, Special Education, or Secondary Teaching Certificate.
• Must meet all Arizona Department of Education certification requirements.
• Meets Criteria of Appropriately Certified.
• Minimum of a Provisional SEI, ESL or Bilingual Endorsement.
• Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field with a minimum of five (5) years of successful experience teaching reading, including at least three (3) years of literacy experience at the state, district/charter, or school level. (minimum requirement)
• Five years successful classroom teaching experience.
• Reading Specialist Endorsement (minimum requirement).
• Knowledge of Arizona English Language Arts (ELA) Standards, Early Learning Language and Literacy Standards, Move On When Reading legislation, literacy assessment systems, and multi‑tiered systems of support (MTSS).
• Must be able to pass a background check upon employment.
• Must possess a valid IVP Fingerprint clearance card.
• Ability to analyze assessment data and translate findings into instructional action.
• Strong collaboration and coaching skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional discretion.
• Literacy K‑5 Endorsement (preferred).
• Masters Degree (preferred).
• Deep understanding of structured literacy and the science of reading (preferred).