Coordinator, Literacy Programs & Initiatives; Education Program Specialist II * Pos

Coordinator, Literacy Programs & Initiatives (Education Program Specialist II)

Position at Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Provides best‑in‑class program development, implementation, and support of pre‑kindergarten through grade 12 literacy and English Language Arts programs aligned to Maryland State Literacy Standards and evidence‑based practices.

• Develop, implement, and monitor literacy initiatives aligned to State and National Standards and MSDE policies.
• Provide content expertise, policy guidance, and technical assistance to ensure LEAs meet literacy‑related requirements under COMAR, the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and other state initiatives.
• Coordinate with internal MSDE offices (Early Childhood, Assessment, Research, Special Education, etc.) to ensure coherent interpretation and implementation of literacy policy and data requirements.
• Review and cross‑walk local literacy plans, grant applications, and related submissions against MSDE policy requirements.
• Prepare summary reports and recommendations for leadership and the State Board.
• Proactively identify implementation challenges, recommend solutions, and escalates issues to leadership when necessary.
• Serve as a point of contact for LEAs, responding to inquiries and connecting them with MSDE resources.
• Track LEA deliverables (e.g., literacy plans, reporting requirements) and maintain organized records of progress and compliance.
• Design, facilitate, and evaluate professional learning for LEA literacy leaders, emphasizing translation of policy into classroom practice and monitoring follow‑through.
• Maintain detailed project plans, meeting notes, and follow‑up actions to ensure accountability and continuity across MSDE teams and LEA partners.
• Draft communications, memos, and reports as directed by the Executive Director.

A master’s degree or the equivalent of 36 credit hours of post‑baccalaureate coursework in education or a related area from an accredited college or university.

Five (5) years of administrative or teaching experience in literacy, reading, or related programs in pre‑kindergarten through 12 settings. One year of that experience must include supervising and/or coaching professional education staff.

• Active teacher certification in any state with experience as a classroom teacher.
• Experience with the Science of Reading, Structured Literacy, or other literacy programs.
• Experience providing professional development and coaching to educators and/or administrators.
• Experience working in a fast‑paced state or large district‑led initiative focused on increasing reading outcomes.
• Experience assisting LEAs with developing procedures and systems.
• Experience producing documents and resources for LEAs, administrators, teachers, or families and communities.
• Knowledge of early literacy programs, Maryland College and Career Ready Standards, and the Maryland Comprehensive Literacy Plan.
• Knowledge of curriculum and evidence‑based instructional practices in English Language Arts and literacy.
• Knowledge of school improvement programs.
• Skill in implementing, monitoring, and evaluating education programs.
• Skill in developing and presenting professional learning programs.
• Skill in monitoring and documenting grant financial activity; skill organizing/managing multiple tasks and timelines.
• Ability to work as a team member to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Applicants must consent to a State and FBI (CJIS) background check. Travel throughout the state is required. Submit a professional resume and complete the MD State Government online application. Include all requested qualifications; applications must be complete to be considered. If unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W.

Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. Individuals with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country. Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non‑selection or termination of employment.

Eligible employees receive state‑wide benefits per Maryland State Government policy. (Further details are available upon hire.)