Description
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.
About the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) works with districts, schools, and educators to promote teaching and learning that is antiracist, inclusive, multilingual, and multicultural; that values and affirms each and every student and their families; and that creates equitable opportunities and experiences for all students, particularly those who have been historically underserved. For more information on our educational vision, visit https://www.doe.mass.edu/commissioner/vision/..
DESE is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, and where collaboration, innovation, and connections are central to how we work. We seek teammates committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Our most important asset is our staff. DESE continuously strives for a workplace that values a community of diverse talent where everyone works together to improve education for all students. We believe in diverse talent. A strong, innovative, and effective team has members with diverse experiences. We believe in and work toward equity for all protected classes. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
About the Office of Literacy and Humanities
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:
o Evaluating and revising the ELA/Literacy Curriculum Framework (state standards)
o 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 [email protected].
Qualifications
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements:
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree and at least four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional educational experience in a specific or related content area, educational program/or service;
a Master’s degree or higher in a specific or related educational content area may be substituted for two years of the required experience -- 30 semester hours equals one year of experience for substitution purposes.
Special Requirements: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License or the equivalent from another state may be required.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
Official Title: Educational Specialist C (MA)
