Reading Specialist - PT

ABOUT CESA 1

As a regional agency, we''re dedicated to transforming the landscape of learning through our comprehensive array of services. From staffing solutions for schools, to empowering educators with top-notch professional learning experiences, and providing direct support to students, we''re on a mission to unlock the full potential of every learner.

But here''s the real heart of our Agency: our incredible team of passionate individuals who are driven by a deep commitment to helping students thrive. If you are someone who shares our unwavering dedication to education and wants to be part of something truly extraordinary, visit our website to discover more about who we are.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

The Reading Specialist will work with a school to provide high-quality instructional coaching and continuous improvement support grounded in science-based early literacy principles.

Direct Instructional Coaching & Support (5K-3rd Grade):

• Provide side-by-side instructional coaching, modeling, and co-teaching to strengthen teachers' use of explicit and systematic science-based early literacy instruction and assessment practices.
• Guide teachers in implementing instruction across all key components of early literacy: phonological awareness (including phonemic awareness), oral language development, phonics, background knowledge, vocabulary, writing, comprehension, and fluency.
• Ensure instructional techniques for 5K-3rd grade strictly adhere to explicit, systematic approaches and do not use three-cueing.
• Conduct classroom visits to collect data about adult practice to inform next steps in coaching and professional learning.

Data-Driven Support & Addressing Disparities:

• Coach individual or small groups of teachers through analyzing student learning data (including informal assessment data such as observation notes, classroom assessments, and reading or writing samples) and adjusting instruction accordingly.
• Implement instruction and assessment strategies to address reading achievement disparities in 5K-3rd grade (including students with IEPs, characteristics of dyslexia, culturally/linguistically diverse students, students living in poverty, and English or multi-lingual learners).
• Identify and remove barriers in universal instruction in reading to address achievement disparities.
• Support systems in applying Wisconsin's Framework for Multi-Level Systems of Support (MLSS).

Professional Learning & Collaboration:

• Plan and facilitate explicit, systematic, science-based early literacy professional learning for educators and leaders serving 5K-3rd grade.
• Apply adult learning principles (such as Learning Forward's Standards for Professional Development) in large and small group facilitation.
• Build positive, collaborative relationships with teachers and administrators across 1-on-1, small group, and large group settings to drive reading achievement.
• Maintain deep alignment with the Wisconsin Standards for ELA (2020), specifically for grades 5K through 3rd.

QUALIFICATIONS

To be eligible for this position, the candidate must meet all of the following:

• Hold or be eligible to hold a Wisconsin Reading Specialist License (17/5017).
• Meet all school/district background check requirements (or complete a criminal background check adhering to the terms of the Wisconsin Early Literacy Coaching Program contract).
• Knowledge and demonstrated use of explicit and systematic instruction and assessment practices in science-based early literacy (5K-3rd grade) across phonological awareness, oral language, phonics, background knowledge, vocabulary, writing, comprehension, and fluency.
• Knowledge and demonstrated use of 5K-3rd grade instruction techniques that do not use three-cueing.
• Knowledge and demonstrated use of strategies addressing reading achievement disparities (IEPs, dyslexia characteristics, cultural/linguistic diversity, poverty, English/multi-lingual learners).
• Successful experience delivering and/or supporting K-12 literacy instruction as an elementary teacher, 5K-3rd grade coach, building/district administrator, or district reading specialist.
• Knowledge of early literacy coaching best practices and adult learning principles (e.g., Learning Forward''s Standards).
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, communicate clearly in writing and speaking, and collaborate with educators and leaders.
• Understanding of the Wisconsin Standards for ELA (2020) in 5K-3rd grade.

WHY WORK FOR CESA 1?

At CESA 1, we don''t just offer a job; we provide an enriching journey filled with great benefits and opportunities. Here''s why joining our team is a game-changer for your career.

• Award-Winning Workplace Culture: Step into a welcoming environment where your contributions are celebrated. We''re proud recipients of national and regional awards for being a top workplace. CESA 1 employees consistently rate us highly for our supportive culture.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Enjoy more than just a paycheck; we offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including enrollment in Wisconsin''s fully-funded retirement system.
• Work/Life Balance: At CESA 1, our leadership team genuinely cares about the well-being of all employees. We offer flexibility in certain work hours and locations. We also have a robust wellness program designed to support both your mental and physical health.
• Meaningful Impact: Your work directly impacts the growth and development of children, ultimately benefiting their futures. At CESA #1, we are dedicated to empowering the 27,000 educators in our region to be their best and thrive in their positions.
• Continuous Learning: CESA 1 is committed to ongoing professional development for all employees. We believe continuous improvement provides the knowledge and skills necessary to stay up-to-date on educational practices and to excel in your role. In addition, because we employ highly skilled educators around the state, you''ll have access to expert colleagues and peer networks as key professional resources.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

CESA 1 provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, and prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, creed, disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, arrest or conviction record, military service, genetic information, use or nonuse of lawful products off CESA 1''s premises during nonworking hours, and any other reason prohibited by state or federal law. CESA 1 complies with all applicable state and federal laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. CESA 1 will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement promotion, termination, layoff, leaves of absences, compensation and training.