Position SummaryThe 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 GrowthProgress toward ILP goals
Reading AchievementImprovement in diagnostic assessments
Instructional QualityClassroom observations
Student EngagementAttendance and participation
Family CommunicationTimely progress updates
ProfessionalismAttendance, preparation, collaboration
Mission AlignmentContribution 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 RoleEvery 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
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