<p><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">At Aspire Living & Learning, we don't just talk about making an impact, we live it. For more than 40 years, we've supported neurodiverse children and adults across New England and Maryland as they discover their passions, unlock their potential, and live more independently in their communities. Our person-centered services evolve with people's needs, from education and behavioral health to residential and community-based supports. We empower people to live lives shaped by their own interests, choices, and strengths. Join our collaborative, mission-driven team and bring your skills to work that makes a real difference every day.</span></p> <p>Aspire is searching for a Reading Specialist to play <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8">a vital role </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8">in </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8">improving</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8"> students’ </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8">reading skills</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8"> through collaboration with</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8">,</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW51528512 BCX8"> and development of the team at the school.</span></p> <p><strong>Hours:</strong> M-F 7a-3p</p> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Trumbull, CT, one day in Naugatuck, CT per week</p> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Key Responsibilities:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Assess students' reading abilities using formal and informal assessments to determine individual needs.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Develop and implement individualized reading intervention plans aligned with students’ IEP goals.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Collaborate closely with special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other team members to support literacy development.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Provide direct instruction in reading, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, using evidence-based programs (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, Wilson, etc.).</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Monitor and document student progress regularly and adjust instructional methods accordingly.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Participate in IEP meetings, contribute to goal development, and provide data to support decision-making.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Offer professional development and support to staff on best practices for literacy instruction for students with special needs.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Maintain a positive, inclusive, and structured classroom environment that encourages student growth and confidence in reading.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Perform any additional job responsibilities assigned by supervisors or team leaders to support the organization's smooth operation.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Accept reassignment as required</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> </ul> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Qualifications:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Master’s degree in Reading, Literacy, Special Education, or related field.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Certification as a Reading Specialist and/or Special Education Teacher (as required by state).</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Minimum of 2 years teaching experience in a special education or literacy-focused setting.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Knowledge of multi-sensory reading programs and strategies tailored to students with learning disabilities.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":true,"134233118":true}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Commitment to inclusive education and differentiated instruction.