The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

The Educator Preparation Literacy Specialist will support initiatives that impact educator preparation program leaders and educators across the Commonwealth, supporting them to achieve their equity-driven literacy goals for students. The Educator Preparation Literacy Specialist will primarily focus on early literacy (grades PK-3) in educator preparation. They will work on resource development, grant offerings, professional development for educators, and an educator preparation program approval process that is designed to ensure that all aspiring educators are well-prepared to serve all students in Massachusetts.

Job Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of state policies and resources in educator preparation associated with the Department’s goal of ensuring that the majority of Early Childhood, Elementary, and Moderate Disabilities teacher candidates in Massachusetts are being prepared (through coursework and opportunities for practice and high-quality feedback) in accordance with the principles of evidence-based early literacy instruction and the state’s early literacy program approval criteria.

• Facilitating a complex and multi-faceted review process for a caseload of multiple educator preparation providers (EPPs) with literacy-specific licensure programs, which results in high-stakes accountability recommendations. This involves:

o Providing assistance to EPPs readying for an evaluation;
o Gathering, analyzing, and evaluating quantitative and qualitative data related to review criteria to assess program quality (including but not limited to focus group, survey, and other output data);
o Producing evidence-based evaluation reports that have been calibrated externally, vetted internally, and that uphold DESE's rigorous expectations for providers.

• Support EPPs in meeting the Commonwealth’s early literacy program approval expectations through relationship-building, program approval and progress monitoring, and coaching.

• Support external stakeholder engagements, including but not limited to advisory group meetings, small to mid-size meetings and convenings, and professional learning communities, including responsibility for both event logistics and content.

• Contribute to the development of state policy related to early literacy instruction in educator preparation and K12 employment.

• Contribute expertise to various projects within the Center for Instructional Support and across the agency, in service of Massachusetts educators and students.

• Contribute to other DESE programs and offerings through collaboration with other offices and teams.

Desired Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of:

Desired Mindsets and Attributes

People who are successful working on our team demonstrate a mindset aligned with the following:

• Commitment to equity in education, and a desire to work with educator preparation faculty and leadership, and PK12 teachers and educational leaders to help all our children receive an excellent education.
• Unwavering belief in the ability of all children to learn at high levels.
• A demonstrated history of bringing anti-racist practices to your work.
• Collaborative approach to problem-solving.
• Proactive, initiative taker who identifies and takes action to improve one’s individual and the team’s collective work.
• Eagerness for feedback and commitment to continuous improvement
• Alignment with the principles articulated in DESE’s Educational Vision

Desired Experience

Experience teaching early literacy OR secondary literacy in a public school in MA

Please include a cover letter with your resume.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to Dawn.E.DeRoche@mass.gov.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!