Youth School Support Specialist

LINC; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The Youth School Support Specialist Reading Para at LINC helps students improve reading skills and engagement. You will deliver one-on-one and small group instruction, develop reading plans from assessments, and monitor progress to adjust strategies.

You will collaborate with teachers, parents, and support staff to ensure consistency and growth, creating a positive learning environment that supports youth literacy in the school community.

Qualifications

• Must have a basic knowledge of reading instruction techniques and literacy development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with students, parents, and school staff.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one and small group reading instruction and support to students identified as needing additional help.
• Assist in the development and implementation of individualized reading plans based on student assessments and teacher recommendations.
• Monitor and document student progress, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to meet learning goals.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers, special education staff, and parents to ensure consistency and reinforcement of reading skills.
• Create and maintain a positive, inclusive, and motivating learning environment that encourages student participation and growth.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Confidentiality

Reading instruction techniques

Educational technology familiarity

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s degree or higher in education or related field

Job description

The Youth School Support Specialist Reading Para plays a critical role in enhancing the literacy and academic success of students by providing targeted reading support and interventions. This position focuses on working closely with youth to improve their reading skills, comprehension, and overall engagement with educational materials. The specialist collaborates with teachers, parents, and other educational staff to develop and implement individualized reading plans tailored to each student's needs. By fostering a supportive and encouraging learning environment, the role aims to boost students' confidence and motivation in reading. Ultimately, the Youth School Support Specialist contributes to the broader goal of academic achievement and lifelong learning for youth within the school community.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree or higher in education or related field preferred.
• Experience working with children or youth in an educational or support role.
• Basic knowledge of reading instruction techniques and literacy development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with students, parents, and school staff.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as a Reading Paraeducator or similar credential.
• Experience working with diverse student populations, including those with learning disabilities or English language learners.
• Familiarity with educational technology and reading intervention programs.
• Training in behavior management and motivational strategies.
• Previous experience in a school or educational setting supporting literacy initiatives.

Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one and small group reading instruction and support to students identified as needing additional help.
• Assist in the development and implementation of individualized reading plans based on student assessments and teacher recommendations.
• Monitor and document student progress, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to meet learning goals.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers, special education staff, and parents to ensure consistency and reinforcement of reading skills.
• Create and maintain a positive, inclusive, and motivating learning environment that encourages student participation and growth.

Skills:

The required and preferred skills are essential for delivering effective reading support tailored to individual student needs. Strong communication skills enable the specialist to clearly explain reading concepts and collaborate with teachers and parents. Knowledge of reading instruction techniques allows for the creation of targeted interventions that address specific literacy challenges. Familiarity with educational technology supports the use of digital tools to enhance learning experiences. Additionally, interpersonal skills foster a positive and encouraging environment that motivates students to engage actively in their reading development.