Overview
Category:instructional
Median Salary:$60,000
Education Required:masters
Growth Outlook:growing
Student Interaction:direct student
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
1
Bachelor's degree in Education
2
Teaching experience (usually 3+ years)
3
Master's degree in Reading or Literacy
4
Reading Specialist certification
Required Certifications
- State reading specialist license
- Reading endorsement or certification
- Dyslexia training certification (some states)
Career Progression
Classroom Teacher → Reading Specialist→
Lead Reading Specialist→
Literacy Coach or Coordinator→
District Curriculum Director
Work Environment
Dedicated reading room with specialized materials and assessment tools
Typical Schedule
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, flexible based on student needs