Overview
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct reading assessments and diagnostics
- Provide intensive reading intervention
- Design individualized literacy plans
- Coach teachers in literacy instruction
- Analyze school-wide reading data
- Coordinate reading programs and initiatives
A Day in the Life
- Individual and small group reading interventions
- Diagnostic reading assessments
- Progress monitoring and data analysis
- Teacher coaching and modeling
- Parent workshops on reading support
- Curriculum planning and material selection
- RTI/MTSS team meetings
Education & Certification Path
Required Certifications
- State reading specialist license
- Reading endorsement or certification
- Dyslexia training certification (some states)
Career Progression
Work Environment
Dedicated reading room with specialized materials and assessment tools
Typical Schedule
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, flexible based on student needs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a reading specialist do?
A reading specialist provides targeted literacy intervention for students who are reading below grade level. They conduct diagnostic reading assessments, design individualized literacy plans, deliver small-group and one-on-one reading instruction, coach classroom teachers in literacy best practices, analyze school-wide reading data, and coordinate reading programs like RTI/MTSS interventions.
What is a literacy specialist job description?
A literacy specialist (also called a reading specialist) assesses students' reading abilities, develops intervention plans for struggling readers, models effective literacy instruction for teachers, selects curriculum materials, monitors student progress through data analysis, leads professional development on reading strategies, and participates in IEP and RTI team meetings. The role requires a master's degree in reading or literacy and typically 3+ years of classroom teaching experience.
How much do reading specialists make?
Reading specialists earn between $45,000 and $80,000 per year, with a median salary of $60,000. This is higher than a typical classroom teacher salary because the role requires a master's degree and specialized certification. Reading specialists in high-cost-of-living areas or large districts can earn toward the upper end of this range.