Literacy Specialist Teacher
Cotting School · Lexington, MA · 6 days ago
EducationFull-time
Cotting School, a recognized leader and innovator in special education, is seeking a dynamic Special Educator and Literacy Specialist to join our community. The Literacy Specialist will join with a strong team of instructional specialists and coaches (Curriculum & Instructional Coach, Assistive Technology, Teacher of the Visually Impaired, English Language Educator) to collaboratively support students within the Cotting community. Our community is seeking an active partner and practitioner as we further develop programming which aligns with our DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) strategic initiatives. Responsibilities As a member of students’ collaborative care teams, the Literacy Specialist will work with other members of the team (e.g. special educator, SLP, OT, PT, counselor, TVI, nurse) to More deeply understand a student’s profile, strengths, and areas for growth Develop goals and objectives towards the student IEP inclusive of language acquisition needs Monitor progress towards these goals Help the student develop and work towards their long term vision Attend Team meetings and case reviews as required Work 1:1 or in small groups with students to identify and work on appropriate language objectives Assist all members of a student’s team in designing and implementing instruction responsive to student’s language acquisition needs Participate in and help develop learning opportunities for the full Cotting staff, including teachers, therapists, health services, instructional aides Collaborate and communicate with the school's Instructional Coaching Team, Educational Leadership Team, and administration to ensure ELL students receive language support that is responsive to their unique needs and background Demonstrate and model effective culturally-responsive and trauma informed practices Administer mandated state and local assessments for English language learners whenever appropriate Attend professional development opportunities sufficient to stay current with changes in ELL instruction and improvements in ELL teaching strategies as well as the intersection of English Language Education and Special Education Passionate and optimistic about their students, their content, and the teaching profession Demonstrates understanding for how the subject matter applies in real-world settings and connects to other content areas and relevant standards Can convey content in creative and engaging ways that align to standards an reflect specially designed instruction per students’ IEP goals and objectives Uses instructional practices that are likely to challenge, motivate, and engage all students and facilitate equitable, active student participation Collaborates with classroom teacher to support a productive learning environment where every student participates and is valued as part of the class community Engages with families and builds collaborative, respectful relationships with them in service of student learning Regularly reflects on practice, seeks and responds to feedback, and demonstrates self-awareness and commitment to continuous learning and development Seeks to participate in and contribute to a collaborative adult learning community Works collaboratively with instructional staff to build upon existing literacy practices to help develop a scope and sequence of learning for preschool through post high school. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees so classified. EXPECTATIONS Develop a trusting and reflective partnership with teachers Establish and maintain clear communication and cooperative working relationships with a variety of educators and groups Provide feedback on program effectiveness to the coaching team and program administrators Model of continuous learning. The ideal candidate will take initiative and pursue their own learning Proficient in problem solving Strong leadership and interpersonal skills including giving and receiving constructive feedback