Literacy Content Support Specialist

ELA/Literacy Content Support Specialist (ESC)

Are you an experienced ELA/Literacy educator with expertise in evidence-based, culturally and linguistically sustaining instruction? Join us! Please submit a cover letter and resume that highlight your experience and qualifications for this role. At DESE’s Office of Literacy and Humanities, we support educators to provide an excellent education in Literacy and Humanities to every student in Massachusetts. We are part of a nationwide movement for equity in literacy. While Massachusetts is #1 in the nation for literacy achievement, the educational system does not serve all students equitably. Through our support to educators focused on curriculum, assessment, and instruction, we seek to enable equitable high achievement for all students, especially students from historically underserved groups such as students of color, multilingual learners and students with disabilities. Literacy is a key determinant of students’ future success and a priority of the Healey-Driscoll administration. The ELA/Literacy Content Support Specialist will lead initiatives to improve ELA/literacy curriculum, instruction, and student support that will impact educators and students across the Commonwealth.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead large-scale, high-impact literacy instructional support projects, such as:
• Evaluating and revising the ELA/Literacy Curriculum Framework (state standards)
• Developing professional development and instructional resources for educators statewide
• Support districts in meeting their literacy improvement goals through relationship-building, progress monitoring, and coaching
• Lead evaluation of DESE programs and initiatives to ensure effective delivery of services to educators and students
• Contribute to other DESE programs and policies through collaboration with other teams

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• Knowledge of the MA Curriculum Framework for ELA/Literacy, evidence-based literacy instructional practices, and multi-tiered systems of support
• Knowledge of culturally sustaining practices in literacy
• Ability to provide clear, professional and supportive written and verbal communication to stakeholders
• Ability to manage complex projects independently, including being organized with documents, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines
• Experience teaching ELA/literacy in a public school, particularly in Massachusetts

Desired Mindsets and Attributes:

• Alignment with the principles articulated in DESE’s Educational Vision, including a commitment to equity and anti-racism in education
• Asset-based view of all students and families and belief in the ability of all students to achieve at high levels
• Collaborative mindset and desire to work collaboratively with DESE teammates and educators
• Eagerness for feedback and commitment to continuous professional improvement

Don’t meet every preferred skill above? Please apply anyway! Studies have shown that people from historically marginalized groups are less likely to apply for jobs when they don’t meet every single requirement. DESE is dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace that fosters a sense of belonging. If you’re excited about this role, we encourage you to apply. The Content Support Specialist will be based at the DESE office in Everett, MA, with travel throughout MA regularly required. DESE employees are currently required to report to the office two days per week and may telework up to three days per week. Questions regarding this position or the application process should be directed to Dawn.E.DeRoche@mass.gov.