Literacy Consultant - Regional Professional Development Center

Southeast Missouri State University; Cape Girardeau (MO); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Missouri State University (RPDC) seeks a Literacy Consultant to support literacy initiatives for DESE-identified districts across the southeast region from the SEMO campus. The role includes planning, delivering DESE-approved training, and developing coaching materials focused on the five literacy components.

Experience with the science of reading, collaboration with DESE and LEAs, and data reporting are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in education or closely related field with concentration in literacy; master’s degree is a plus.
• Willing to complete LETRS Volume I and II Training within one year of employment
• Willing to complete Aspire Training within one year of employment
• Demonstrated experience with science of reading and associated instructional, intervention, and assessment practices
• Three years of classroom experience and elementary or secondary content-specific teaching certificate
• Demonstrated ability to express complex ideas clearly in writing and speech
• Ability to travel in Missouri on a regular basis

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with RPDCs, DESE, and partner agencies to support DESE-identified districts and schools through literacy initiatives and professional development
• Participate in monthly and ongoing planning meetings with RPDC staff and DESE
• Support DESE in collecting and reporting data for statewide analysis and submit monthly activity reports
• Assist LEAs in improving student academic achievement and postsecondary outcomes as designated by DESE
• Guide educators in implementing evidence-based instructional practices aligned with the science of reading
• Develop DESE training and coaching materials on literacy instruction, assessment, and intervention
• Plan and deliver DESE-approved training, coaching, and technical assistance on the five literacy components
• Promote best practices in literacy instruction and assessment aligned with current research
• Engage in ongoing professional learning to remain current on literacy research
• Attend statewide meetings, trainings, and support sessions as directed by DESE
• Travel within Missouri as needed

Skills

Literacy instruction

Data reporting

Planning meetings

Collaboration with DESE

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in education

Master's degree is a plus

Job description

Literacy Consultant
Regional Professional Development Center
Economic and Workforce Development
Full Time/Term

The Southeast Regional Professional Development Center (RPDC) has been housed on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University since 1996. The Center serves approximately 84 school districts in the southeast region. RPDC personnel provide training programs for the teachers and administrators throughout the area on a continuous basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with RPDCs, DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education), and partner agencies to support DESE-identified districts and schools through literacy initiatives and professional development
• Participate in monthly and ongoing planning meetings with RPDC staff, regional literacy consultants, and DESE
• Support DESE in collecting and reporting data for statewide analysis and submit monthly activity reports by established deadlines
• Assist partner local educational agency (LEAs) in improving student academic achievement and postsecondary outcomes, as designated by DESE
• Guide educators in implementing evidence-based instructional practices, interventions, and assessment strategies aligned with the science of reading
• Develop, as requested, DESE training and coaching materials on effective literacy instruction, assessment (including screening and progress monitoring), and intervention practices
• Plan and deliver DESE-approved training, coaching, and technical assistance focused on the five components of literacy (phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension) and related communication skills
• Promote the implementation of best practices in literacy instruction, intervention, and assessment aligned with current research
• Engage in ongoing professional learning to remain current on literacy research and best practices
• Attend and actively participate in required statewide meetings, trainings, and support sessions as directed by DESE

• Bachelors’ degree in education or closely related field with concentration, specialization and/or emphasis in literacy; master’s degree is a plus

• Willing to complete Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) Volume I and II Training with one year of employment
• Willing to complete Aspire Training within one year of employment

• Demonstrated experience with science of reading and associated instructional, intervention, and assessment practices
• Three years of classroom experience and elementary or secondary content-specific teaching certificate
• Demonstrated understanding of significant research in the field of literacy education and the ability to apply the findings to the improvement of instruction
• Demonstrated ability to express complex ideas to a variety of audiences clearly and concisely both orally and in writing
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet established deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain rapport and effective working relationships with department staff and local school district personnel
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex educational problems and develop feasible solutions
• Demonstrated coaching, presenting, consulting, and facilitating skills
• Strong interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and problem-solving processes

• Ability and means to travel in the state of Missouri on a regular basis

Application Deadline

To ensure full consideration, application materials must be received bySeptember 22, 2026. The position will be available July 1, 2026 and will remain open until filled.

About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO)

Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching, and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high-quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty, and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.
SEMO Fast Facts
SEMO Strategic Action Plan