Master's degree in Reading, Literacy, Special Education, or related field.
Certification as a Reading Specialist and/or Special Education Teacher (as required by state).
Minimum of 2 years teaching experience in a special education or literacy-focused setting.
Knowledge of multi-sensory reading programs and strategies for students with learning disabilities.
Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.
Commitment to inclusive education and differentiated instruction.
Valid driver's license and safe driving record.
Responsibilities
Assess students' reading abilities using formal and informal assessments.
Develop and implement individualized reading intervention plans aligned with IEP goals.
Collaborate with special education teachers and other team members to support literacy development.
Provide direct instruction in reading using evidence-based programs.
Monitor and document student progress and adjust instructional methods accordingly.
Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to goal development.
Offer professional development and support to staff on literacy instruction best practices.
Benefits
8-weeks of PTO annually, including personal time and mental health days.
Comprehensive Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance with multiple medical plans.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Saving Account (HSA) options.
Lifestyle Spending Accounts with JOON for wellness and childcare expenses.
403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match up to 2% of salary.
Professional Growth Opportunities including training and mentorship.
Employer-Paid Life & Disability Insurance and Telehealth Services.
Full Job Description
Aspire is searching for a Reading Specialist to play a vital role in improving students' reading skills through collaboration with, and development of the team at the school.
Hours: M-F 7a-3p
Location: Trumbull, CT, one day in Naugatuck, CT per week
Key Responsibilities:
Assess students' reading abilities using formal and informal assessments to determine individual needs.
Develop and implement individualized reading intervention plans aligned with students' IEP goals.
Collaborate closely with special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other team members to support literacy development.
Provide direct instruction in reading, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, using evidence-based programs (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, Wilson, etc.).
Monitor and document student progress regularly and adjust instructional methods accordingly.
Participate in IEP meetings, contribute to goal development, and provide data to support decision-making.
Offer professional development and support to staff on best practices for literacy instruction for students with special needs.
Maintain a positive, inclusive, and structured classroom environment that encourages student growth and confidence in reading.
Perform any additional job responsibilities assigned by supervisors or team leaders to support the organization's smooth operation.
Accept reassignment as required
Qualifications:
Master's degree in Reading, Literacy, Special Education, or related field.
Certification as a Reading Specialist and/or Special Education Teacher (as required by state).
Minimum of 2 years teaching experience in a special education or literacy-focused setting.
Knowledge of multi-sensory reading programs and strategies tailored to students with learning disabilities.
Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.
Commitment to inclusive education and differentiated instruction.
Must have satisfactory background checks.
Valid driver's license and safe driving record.
Employees at Aspire enjoy working with a collaborative and dedicated team that values a culture of belonging and care. We take pride in offering a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including:
8-weeks of PTO annually, including personal time, mental health days, and school vacations
Comprehensive Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance - Choose from multiple medical plans, with vision coverage included at no extra cost.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Saving Account (HSA) options - Use pre-tax dollars for medical and dependent care expenses.
Lifestyle Spending Accounts with JOON - Monthly funds for wellness, fitness, commuting, childcare, pet care, and more.
403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match - A 100% match on contributions up to 2% of your salary.
Professional Growth Opportunities - Access to training, leadership and management courses, mentorship, and career advancement.
Employer-Paid Life & Disability Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Telehealth Services and more!
Salary: $70,000-$95,000 annually, based on education and experience
About Aspire Living & Learning
Aspire Living & Learning is a non-profit organization that provides educational and support services to individuals with developmental disabilities. The organization offers a range of programs, including residential services, day habilitation, and employment services, that are designed to help individuals achieve their full potential. Aspire Living & Learning was founded in 1951 and is headquartered in Peabody, Massachusetts. The organization serves clients throughout the state of Massachusetts.
