K–8 Reading Specialist

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School; Malden (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School in Malden, MA is seeking a dedicated K-8 Reading Specialist to strengthen literacy through data-driven interventions and evidence-based instruction.

The ideal candidate will lead reading intervention, monitor progress, collaborate with teachers and families, and implement the Direct Instruction/Core Knowledge approaches while maintaining high academic expectations. Salary ranges from $70,000 to $90,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in reading or a closely related field.
• Three+ years of teaching or reading intervention experience preferred.
• Successful completion of MTEL requirements within one year of employment.
• Strong understanding of literacy development and assessment.

Responsibilities

• Provide targeted reading and language intervention to students at risk or below grade level.
• Deliver instruction using approved Direct Instruction programs.
• Develop and implement individualized intervention strategies based on data.
• Maintain fidelity to curricula including Direct Instruction and Core Knowledge.
• Prepare quarterly progress reports for families.

Education

Bachelor's degree in reading or related field

Three+ years teaching/reading intervention experience

MTEL requirements within one year

Strong literacy development knowledge

Job description

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School | Malden, MA

Salary: $70,000-$90,000 annually, commensurate with experience

About Mystic Valley Regional Charter School

Founded in 1998, Mystic Valley Regional Charter School (MVRCS) is a tuition-free public charter school in Malden, Massachusetts, serving more than 1,400 students in Kindergarten through Grade 12.

At Mystic Valley, we believe that exceptional teachers, a carefully selected curriculum delivered with fidelity, high academic expectations, and traditional teaching methods are the foundation of student success. Our commitment to academic excellence has consistently positioned MVRCS among the highest-performing public schools in Massachusetts, New England, and the nation.

Our rigorous academic program includes a 200-day school year and an extended school day, providing students with additional instructional time and opportunities for academic growth. Through a structured learning environment and a strong emphasis on college preparation, MVRCS equips students with the knowledge, skills, and discipline necessary for success in higher education and beyond.

Position Overview

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School is seeking a dedicated and experienced K-8 Reading Specialist to support students in developing essential reading and language skills.

Under the supervision of the K-8 Assistant Directors, the Reading Specialist will oversee and implement the school's reading intervention program, providing targeted instruction to students performing below grade level or identified as academically at risk. While the position primarily serves students in Kindergarten through Grade 6, support may extend through Grade 8 as needed.

The ideal candidate will be a skilled educator who uses data-driven instructional strategies, evidence-based interventions, and collaborative approaches to help students strengthen literacy skills and achieve grade-level proficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Reading Intervention and Instruction

• Provide targeted reading and language intervention to students identified as at risk or performing below grade level.

• Deliver structured reading instruction using the school's approved Direct Instruction programs.

• Develop and implement individualized intervention strategies based on student needs and assessment results.

• Maintain fidelity to school-approved curricula and instructional approaches, including Direct Instruction and Core Knowledge.

• Adjust instructional support as additional students are identified for intervention or enroll throughout the school year.

Student Assessment and Progress Monitoring

• Analyze internal and external assessment data to identify students requiring additional reading support.

• Monitor student progress and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention strategies.

• Use assessment results to inform instruction and support students in achieving grade-level reading proficiency.

• Prepare quarterly student progress reports to be distributed to families alongside report cards.

Collaboration and Family Communication

• Serve as a primary point of contact for families of students receiving reading intervention services.

• Communicate with parents and guardians regarding student needs, progress, and intervention plans.

• Collaborate with classroom teachers, fellow Reading Specialists, and school administrators to ensure consistency in curriculum and instructional practices.

• Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other meetings related to student academic progress.

Professional and School Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate student records, assessment data, and intervention documentation.

• Follow all school policies, instructional expectations, and applicable state and federal requirements.

• Support schoolwide academic initiatives and contribute to a collaborative educational environment.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the K-8 Assistant Directors.

Qualifications and Requirements

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree with a specialization in reading or a closely related field required.

• Three or more years of relevant teaching or reading intervention experience preferred.

• Successful completion of applicable Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) requirements within one year of employment.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of literacy development, reading assessment, and effective intervention strategies.

• Ability to evaluate student performance data, identify learning needs, and implement appropriate instructional interventions.

• Experience assessing student reading skills and preparing clear, comprehensive reports that summarize findings and recommendations.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple student needs and responsibilities.

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, students, and families.

• Strong instructional, coaching, and leadership skills.

• Ability to plan and deliver lessons aligned with school objectives, approved curricula, and individual student needs.

• Knowledge of applicable educational regulations, procedures, and school policies.

• Commitment to maintaining high academic expectations and supporting student achievement.

Compensation and Appointment

Annual Salary: $70,000-$90,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

This position is an annual appointment, with performance evaluated yearly.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.