Literacy Specialist - Lower School

Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook Educational Community is one of the world's leading centers of education, science, and art. Comprised of a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, Center for Collections and Research, House and Gardens, Institute of Science, and more than 1,600 students attending our Pre-K through 12 independent college preparatory Schools, Cranbrook welcomes thousands of visitors and students to its campus each year. Critics have called Cranbrook "the most enchanted and enchanting setting in America" and in 1989 it was designated a National Historic Landmark. The campus is located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, about 20 miles north of downtown Detroit. For more, please visit our website: www.cranbrook.edu.

Cranbrook Schools is seeking a passionate and collaborative Literacy Specialist to play a pivotal role in shaping the literacy development of our Kindergarten through 5th-grade students. As a literacy specialist, you will play a central role in fostering a love for reading and developing strong literacy skills among our elementary school students. You will work closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to implement effective literacy programs and interventions tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Literacy Program Support: Assess comprehensive literacy programs to ensure they align with the school's curriculum standards and educational goals.
• Small Group and Individual Instruction: Provide targeted literacy instruction to small groups or individual students who require additional support or enrichment. Differentiate instruction based on student needs and learning styles.
• Assessment and Data Analysis: Support Lower School Admin with administering literacy assessment cycles to identify student needs and track progress over time. Collaborate with teachers to analyze assessment data to inform instructional decisions and utilize the data to develop targeted interventions for struggling readers.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with classroom teachers and learning specialist to develop and implement literacy goals for individual students with diverse learning needs.
• Provide Professional Learning: Provides professional learning and support to classroom teachers in effective literacy instruction strategies, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, comprehension strategies, and writing skills.
• Parent and Community Engagement: Foster strong partnerships with parents and caregivers, sharing resources and strategies to support their child's literacy journey at home and within the broader community.
• Resource Management: Manage and maintain a library of instructional materials, including books, technology resources, and literacy intervention tools. Advocate for resources and materials needed to support effective literacy instruction.
• Lifelong Learner: Remain at the forefront of literacy research and best practices, actively seeking professional development opportunities to continuously refine your expertise.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Literacy, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Teaching and Literacy Specialist experience (Kindergarten through 5th grade setting) preferred.
• Deep understanding of literacy development, diverse instructional strategies, and proven programs such as UFLI, Heggerty, or other phonics-based approaches.
• Demonstrated success in leading professional development and providing instructional coaching.
• Data analysis proficiency with the ability to translate insights into actionable plans.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with students, teachers, and families.
• A dedication to equity and a commitment to serving the unique needs of all learners.

Cranbrook offers competitive compensation and benefits that include medical, dental, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and retirement programs with employer contribution.

Why Join Us?

At Cranbrook Schools, we believe literacy is the gateway to opportunity. By joining our team, you'll be part of a collaborative and supportive community dedicated to ensuring every student develops the skills and confidence to succeed as readers, writers, and critical thinkers

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter explaining your educational philosophy, a resume, copies of college transcripts and any certifications, along with contact information for at least three references. Please be sure all documents are uploaded at the time you submit your application.