Position Summary

The Literacy Specialist is responsible for delivering individualized, evidence-based reading intervention to elementary students reading below grade level. Through structured literacy instruction, continuous assessment, and Cannon Academy’s immersive Studio Learning Method, the Reading Specialist helps students achieve measurable academic growth while cultivating a lifelong passion for reading.

This position reports to the Program Director.

Essential ResponsibilitiesInstruction

Deliver daily structured literacy instruction to small groups (student teacher ratio 6:1).
Teach foundational reading skills including:
Phonemic Awareness
Phonics
Fluency
Vocabulary
Reading Comprehension
Differentiate instruction to meet individual student needs.
Foster a positive, encouraging learning environment.

Assessment & Individual Learning Plans

Administer diagnostic and formative assessments.
Develop and maintain Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) for each student.
Monitor student progress weekly.
Adjust instruction based on assessment data.
Prepare concise progress reports for families.

Studio Learning

Facilitate immersive literacy experiences using Cannon Academy exhibits.
Maintain engaging classroom environments.
Integrate movement, collaboration, and multisensory learning.
Reinforce literacy skills through authentic experiences.

Family Engagement

Maintain regular communication with parents.
Celebrate student successes.
Share home reading strategies.
Support family literacy initiatives.

Professional Responsibilities

Participate in weekly instructional planning meetings.
Attend required professional development.
Collaborate with other Reading Specialists.
Maintain accurate student records.
Protect student confidentiality.

QualificationsRequired

Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field
Valid Georgia teaching certificate (or eligibility)
Experience teaching elementary students
Knowledge of structured literacy principles
Strong classroom management skills
Excellent communication skills

Preferred

Reading endorsement or Reading Specialist certification
Orton-Gillingham training or equivalent structured literacy preparation
Experience with intervention programs
Experience interpreting reading assessment data
Experience working with struggling readers

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Reading Specialists will be evaluated on:AreaMeasurementStudent Growth

Progress toward ILP goals

Reading Achievement

Improvement in diagnostic assessments

Instructional Quality

Classroom observations

Student Engagement

Attendance and participation

Family Communication

Timely progress updates

Professionalism

Attendance, preparation, collaboration

Mission Alignment

Contribution to Cannon Academy culture

Success ProfileAn outstanding Cannon Academy Literacy Specialist:

Believes every child can learn to read.
Makes data-informed instructional decisions.
Inspires confidence and curiosity in struggling readers.
Creates engaging, joyful literacy experiences.
Works collaboratively with colleagues and families.
Demonstrates flexibility, creativity, and continuous learning.
Advances Cannon Academy’s mission through excellence in instruction and servant leadership.

Cannon Academy Core Values for the Role

Every Literacy Specialist is expected to embody these values in daily practice:

Students First — Every decision begins with what is best for the student.
Evidence Over Opinion — Instruction is guided by assessment data and proven literacy practices.
Growth Mindset — We celebrate progress, perseverance, and continuous improvement.
Joy in Learning — We create immersive, engaging experiences that help students discover the joy of reading.
Partnership — We work collaboratively with families, schools, volunteers, and one another.
Excellence with Humility — We pursue high standards while serving students and families with compassion and professionalism.

This competency model and job description align closely with Cannon Academy’s instructional philosophy of diagnostic assessment, individualized learning plans, structured literacy, small-group instruction, and continuous progress monitoring, while emphasizing the immersive Studio Learning Method that distinguishes the program.

Confidential

This document is provided for personal use only. Unauthorized copying, distribution, or reproduction of any portion of this document is prohibited without proper attribution and the prior written permission of Cannon Academy.

Cannon United Methodist Church

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