Reading Academies Specialist (Education Specialist IV)

About the role

The Biliteracy Reading Academies Specialist reports to the Deputy Director of Reading Academies. This position provides statewide coordination and support for the implementation of the Biliteracy Texas Reading Academies to support best practices in early literacy and reading across bilingual education settings.

Responsibilities

• Develops high-quality, evidence-based content for Texas Reading Academies, grounded in the Science of Teaching Reading, Bilingualism, and Biliteracy research, including aligned instructional content, progress-monitoring, and evaluation tools across ELAR and Biliteracy pathways
• Develops ongoing enhancements, revisions, and expansion of Reading Academies content across ELAR and Biliteracy pathways as informed by policy updates, research, stakeholder feedback and response data
• Collaborate with internal TEA teams such as Product Academies, OER, and RBIS, and external partners to design, align, and develop high-quality resources and professional development materials for K-8 Reading Academies, ELAR, and Biliteracy pathways. Ensure all content reflects the most effective research-based STR and Biliteracy practices and is accessible and relevant to K-8 grade classrooms across bilingual, ESL, and general education settings. Monitor deliverable quality and provide instructional feedback to ensure rigor and equity for all students
• Ensures achievement of the goals and objectives of the Biliteracy Texas Reading Academies through ongoing support of and collaboration with critical stakeholders, including Education Service Centers (ESC) grantees, Authorized Providers, Cohort Leaders, and other internal and external constituents
• Serves as a resource for internal and external stakeholders by directly supporting priorities and projects and providing consultative support related to areas of expertise. Provides on-demand customer support as needed

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited two-year college or university
• At least four (4) years in experience working with Bilingual and Biliteracy programs in school districts, at education service centers, in university settings, and/or with statewide initiatives; extensive experience in teaching, curriculum, programmatic, or leadership roles relevant to Bilingual and Biliteracy Education
• Bilingual and Biliterate required
• Advanced degree may substitute for two years of required experience

Other Qualifications

• Expert-level knowledge of the Science of Teaching Reading, Biliteracy development, and bilingual education, and the application of skills in grades K-8 across bilingual, ESL, and general education settings
• Deep knowledge of research-based biliteracy practices such as cross-linguistic connections, translanguaging, and content-based language instruction
• Experience leading biliteracy large-scale programs preferred
• Experience in the development and implementation of biliteracy professional learning
• Ability to facilitate strategic partnerships and lead stakeholder engagement
• Meticulous attention to detail with an ability to produce high-quality work in a dynamic environment
• Highly organized; ability to manage multiple projects at once and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Spanish
• Experience in data-driven decision-making to drive initiative or program improvement
• A desire to self-reflect, give/receive feedback, and continuously improve

Pay

New hires, rehires, and internal hires will typically receive a starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees within the same classification. Offers are based on the candidate's experience and qualifications and consider internal pay equity across employees performing similar work.

Schedule

The position requires up to 10% travel, based on business needs, to support program initiatives, collaboration, and operational priorities. Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates.