Company Summary:

At Connections Academy, helping students maximize their potential and meet the highest performance standards through a uniquely individualized learning program is at the core of our mission. Connections Academy was founded in 2001 to deliver high-quality, highly accountable online education to students in grades K-12. Hallmarks of Connections Academy-supported online schools include personalized learning, an award-winning curriculum and Education Management System (EMS), dedicated state-certified teachers, and a supportive school community.  Parents of enrolled students consistently share their satisfaction with Connections Academy: 92% “would recommend the schools to other families” and 95% say the curriculum is “high quality.” In 2017, Connections Academy-supported public schools serve students in 27 states, while the private online school, International Connections Academy meets the online school needs of students worldwide. Recognized for its outstanding curriculum and leadership, Connections Academy is committed to expanding quality education through technology, and helping students achieve both academic and personal success. Connections Academy is part of the global learning company, Pearson, and its Online & Blended Learning group. For more information, visit www.ConnectionsAcademy.com. 

Job Overview:

The Reading Specialist would develop, implement, and assess reading instruction to enhance literacy skills for students across K-12 levels throughout South Carolina. LCCA is authorized by the Charter Institute at Erskine.

Lowcountry Connections Academy strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

This role involves collaborating with educators, selecting appropriate resources, managing instructional environments, and promoting professional growth within the school community. The Reading Specialist plays a crucial role in fostering a positive and effective literacy learning environment that supports all students' needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Instructional Expertise: Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of reading acquisition theories, methodologies, and developmental stages, including emergent literacy and process reading and writing. Apply understanding of phonemic, morphemic, semantic, syntactic, and pragmatic systems of language to support reading and writing processes. Utilize knowledge of classic and contemporary literature, curriculum materials, and instructional resources appropriate for various age levels and mediums. Instructional Planning and Delivery: Create a literate environment that fosters interest and growth in all aspects of literacy. Develop and implement instructional plans based on Pennsylvania Academic Standards, addressing the needs of learners at all proficiency levels. Use a variety of instructional strategies and technologies to meet the diverse needs of students. Evaluate and adapt materials to increase motivation, interest, and growth in reading and writing. Assessment and Evaluation: Select, develop, and administer multiple types of assessments, including norm-referenced tests, criterion-referenced tests, portfolios, and observations. Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide clear, constructive feedback to students and parents. Develop Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) for students with severe literacy learning problems. Professional Development and Collaboration: Stay current with local, state, national, and international literacy trends and research. Collaborate with other educators, allied professionals, and community members to support student literacy development. Serve as a resource and provide professional guidance to teachers and administrators. Communication and Community Engagement: Engage with parents to partner effectively in the literacy development of their children. Maintain professionalism and adhere to Pennsylvania’s Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators, as well as local, state, and federal regulations.

Qualifications:

Education: 

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Reading, Education, or a related field. South Carolina Teaching Certificate (appropriate to grade level responsibilities) Reading Specialist Certification

Skills:

Strong understanding of literacy theories, instructional strategies, and assessment methods. Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of educators and stakeholders. Experience teaching in a cyberlearning environment is a plus Strong technology skills (especially with Microsoft Office products and Google Suite) Demonstrated ability to work well in a fast-paced environment

Additional Requirements:

South Carolina residency  Willingness to travel for state testing, school, and marketing events (may require overnight travel) Ability to work occasional evening hours, as needed to support students and families Ability to effectively work remotely Please note that 2-step authentication is required to be set up to log in to

Note: The anticipated starting salary for Colorado-based individuals expressing interest in this position begins at $38,000 per year. Benefits available to eligible employees can be seen at https://www.hrc-connectionsacademy.com/prospective-employee-benefits-page.html.