Duties will include, but will not be limited to the following:

• Lead and support regional specialists in the development and implementation of structures, professional learning materials, and support of the Alabama Literacy Act
• Analyze state, regional, and LEA data to interpret trends and identify differentiated needs
• Monitor the implementation of the Alabama Literacy Act, working collaboratively with other ALSDE staff and ARI regional staff to make instructional recommendations for literacy support based on data from approved state reading assessments
• Lead collaborative ALSDE efforts, under the direction of ARI administrators, to implement the Alabama Literacy Act requirements for supporting struggling readers above grade three
• Work collaboratively with state and regional staff to design and deliver professional teaming in blended formats, in-person, and technological formats utilizing software programs to increase efficiency in correspondence. communication, and meeting deadlines so that department and division goals are met
• Research curriculum and instructional practices aligned to the science of reading and national model policies
• Develop partnerships internally and externally to lead innovative projects regarding English language arts, the science of reading, universal screening, digital communications, and data analysis to support literacy including working cooperatively with other sections to accomplish department objectives
• Draft, compose, and edit documents (response letters, reports, memoranda, policies, procedures, training materials, brochures, and regulations) in a way that represents ARI and the ALSDE in a professional manner
• Coordinate details, logistics. and physical arrangements for ARI/ALSDE training events and meetings
• Participate in statewide training and support for ARI regional staff
• Performs other duties as assigned

Note: This position requires extensive travel, including overnight.

Education:

• Alabama Professional Educator Certificate
• Master’s degree and advanced coursework or professional development in the science of reading, multisensory language instruction (such as LETRS), or a comparable alternative training
• Minimum of five years of experience as a successful elementary or literacy teacher in Grades K-3

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong motivational, organization, and data management skills
• Ability to work on multiple assignments concurrently, use critical thinking skills to generate solutions, and create and deliver effective presentations to professional audiences
• Excellent leadership and people/relationship-building skills
• Team-oriented with proven ability to work well with others and flexible
• Proficient Microsoft Office knowledge including extensive work with Excel
• Knowledge in the Alabama Literacy Act
• Experience teaching reading or ELA in grades 4-8
• Regional Literacy Specialist (RLS) or Regional Literacy Leadership Specialist (RLLS) experience
  or equivalent preferred

How to apply:

Step 1:

To be considered for this position, you must be on the employment register for this classification. Employment registers are established through the Alabama State Personnel Department. Please visit their website at Alabama State Personnel Department for instructions on the application process. Contact the Alabama State Personnel Department at 334-242-3389 for questions regarding the application process.

Step 2:

After you receive notification from the Alabama State Personnel Department that you have been placed on the employment register, you may email a cover letter and résumé as an attachment to:

Bonnie Short, ARI Director, at. The subject line should read, “Education Specialist I – ARI State Staff”