Job ID361157 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyEducation-PreK-12 Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code9744S2 Employee ClassAcad Prof and Admin About the Job Position Overview The Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) invites applications for Literacy Specialists who will support implementation of the Minnesota READ Act in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). The Read Act requires an implementation partnership between CAREI and the MDE to design and deliver required statutory components of the READ Act to assist regional literacy networks and districts in the implementation. Specifically, MDE and CAREI will jointly: Ensure that approved literacy curricula are culturally responsive Identify at least five literacy curricula and supporting materials that are evidence-based or focused on structured literacy Develop training for agencies who provide literacy volunteers to Minnesota schools Identify evidence-based literacy intervention materials for students in kindergarten through grade 12 Develop an evidence-based literacy lead training program that trains literacy specialists throughout Minnesota to support schools' efforts in screening, measuring growth, monitoring progress, and implementing interventions Provide guidance to districts about best practices in literacy instruction, and practices that are not evidence- based Develop MTSS model plans that districts may adopt to support efforts to screen, identify, intervene, and monitor the progress of students not reading at grade level Ensure that teacher professional development options and MTSS framework trainings are geographically equitable by supporting trainings through the regional service cooperatives This position will support the Minnesota Legislature's goal of having every child reading at or above grade level every year, beginning in kindergarten, including multilingual learners and students receiving special education services. This position actively supports and advances the University's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. The Literacy Specialist position within the CAREI supports development and delivery of professional services and resources for educators that focus on evidence-based instructional practices in literacy. The primary purpose of the Literacy Specialist's work is to improve the quality of education for all learners. This position will be responsible for leading a variety of assigned projects around the implementation of evidence-based literacy practices. The position requires an in- depth level of knowledge of the science of reading, multi-tiered systems of support, and implementation science. The ideal candidate will have expertise in the field of education leadership and systems improvement as well as experience working in local, regional, and/or state educational agencies around literacy and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). The University of Minnesota encourages a healthy work life balance for employees. CEHD is committed to an excellent employee experience, offering a flexible work environment that meets the needs of students, staff, faculty, and the communities we serve. Flexible work arrangements may include flexibility in schedule and/or work location. Please note that 100% remote work requires approval prior to offer. Job Responsibilities Program Implementation (70%) Advise school districts and other educational agencies on improving their implementation of literacy improvements within an MTSS framework. Provide literacy coaching to regional literacy network leads and coaches on the implementation of proven instructional practices and programs to promote high levels of literacy among all student groups. Consult with principals, instructional leaders or literacy coaches, and teaching staff in schools and districts to analyze their needs and problem-solve for practical solutions. Develop and implement change management strategies and plans while supporting edu ators to implement evidence-based literacy practices. Develop data collection plans and tools to inform ongoing evaluation of services and program outcomes with reporting to school leaders. Establish and adhere to collective agreements with respect to the designated professional learning approach, program resources, coaching tools, and language so that consistent approaches are disseminated to participating schools and districts. Model and maintain effective communication and productive, positive, and professional interpersonal relationships. Maintain a focus on the work of promoting proficiency in reading for all students. Support organizational equity goals and employ strategies to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion in all job responsibilities Program Development (25%) Guide development of digital professional learning and curricular materials for elementary educators that demonstrate knowledge of research-based approaches to literacy and practical application. Review literacy curriculum and intervention programs for alignment with structured literacy and cultural responsiveness. Provide guidance to districts about best practices in literacy instruction, and practices that are not evidence-based; Develop MTSS model plans that districts may adopt to support efforts to screen, identify, intervene, and monitor the progress of students not reading at grade level. Identify and/or build tools and resources to assist schools in improving data-based decision-making practices. Receive and offer feedback on developed resources. Utilize reviewer feedback to make revisions that demonstrate an understanding of specific feedback as well as big-picture goals. Collect and analyze data for continuous improvement in services and resource development. Monitor project timelines and meet tight deadlines, when necessary. Other (5%) Attend regular team meetings. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications Required Qualifications Master's Degree in Education or related fields Minimum of eight years of related experience including delivering training/professional development to adult learners and experience in a coaching-related role at a systems level Ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities Previous successful leadership experience working with adult learners Technology skills for designing and delivering professional learning and communications In-depth knowledge of significant topics related to elementary and/or secondary literacy Flexibility in daily work schedule to accommodate school/location-based needs All required qualifications must be documented on application materials Preferred Qualifications Bilingual English/Spanish and/or other languages Professional development/training grounded in the science of reading (e.g., LETRS, CORE, etc.) Background in theory, research, and the practice of elementary literacy education Experience with implementation of an MTSS or Response to Intervention (RtI) framework at a system level Acquired comprehensive knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the science and practice of... For full info follow application link. The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.