Elementary Literacy Instructional Assistant (26/27 School Year) - Valley Mills Elementary

ReNEW Schools; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

ReNEW Schools in Decatur is seeking an Elementary Literacy Instructional Assistant to support the development of strong literacy skills across Grades K-6. You will provide high-quality small-group instruction and targeted interventions under literacy teachers and coaches.

role emphasizes collaboration with staff, maintaining confidentiality, and contributing to a positive classroom environment while aligning with district expectations and professional development.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate degree or higher preferred.
• Strong reading, writing, and communication skills.
• Understanding of literacy development and willingness to learn intervention strategies.
• Ability to implement teacher-directed lessons and intervention plans effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently and in a team.
• Commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Deliver small-group literacy instruction and interventions under guidance of literacy teachers and coaches.
• Support instruction focused on foundational reading skills, comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and writing.
• Reinforce skills introduced by teachers through guided practice and additional opportunities.
• Collaborate with literacy and classroom teachers and support staff to grow students' literacy skills.
• Prepare instructional materials, resources, and data collection tools.
• Maintain a productive learning environment that fosters student engagement.

Skills

High school diploma

Associate degree preferred

Elementary student experience

Reading & writing

Literacy development

Lesson delivery

Organizational skills

Confidentiality

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or higher preferred

Job description

Literacy Instructional Assistant - Job Description

Position Type: Classified

Contract Length: 180 Days

Benefits: Classified benefits package available

Reports To: Building Principal, in collaboration with Building Math Coach

Funding: Lilly Endowment Grant (Through 2030-2031 School Year)

Position Summary

The Elementary Literacy Instructional Assistant supports the development of strong literacy skills in students across grades K-6. This role works closely with literacy teachers, coaches, and classroom teachers to provide high-quality small group instruction and targeted interventions. The instructional assistant plays a key role in supporting students' reading achievement and contributing to a positive and collaborative school environment.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or higher preferred.
• Prior experience working with elementary-aged students is preferred.
• Strong reading, writing, and communication skills.
• Understanding of literacy development and willingness to learn intervention strategies.
• Ability to implement teacher-directed lessons, intervention plans, and guided practice effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Instructional Support

• Deliver small-group literacy instruction and interventions under the guidance of literacy teachers, coaches, and classroom teachers.
• Support instruction focused on foundational reading skills, comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and writing.
• Reinforce skills introduced by teachers through guided practice and additional instructional opportunities.

Classroom Assistance & Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with literacy teachers, classroom teachers, and other support staff to support students' literacy growth.
• Assist with the preparation of instructional materials, resources, and data collection tools.
• Support teachers in maintaining a productive learning environment that fosters student engagement.

Student Support

• Provide students with encouragement, targeted feedback, and support during literacy activities.
• Monitor student learning and share progress observations with teachers.
• Support positive classroom behaviors in alignment with district expectations.

Professional Responsibilities

• Follow the instructional schedule and maintain accurate records as assigned.
• Participate in required professional development related to literacy instruction and intervention strategies.
• Demonstrate reliability, flexibility, and a strong commitment to student success.
• Communicate effectively with staff and contribute to a collaborative working environment.

Terms Of Employment

• 180-day classified position aligned with the MSD of Decatur Township school calendar.
• Compensation and benefits according to district classified employee guidelines.

Evaluation

• Performance will be evaluated in accordance with district policies for classified personnel.