ELA/Literacy Content Support Specialist (ESC)

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.

Please submit a cover letter and resume that highlight your experience and qualifications for this role.

Are you an experienced educator with expertise in evidence-based, culturally and linguistically sustaining early literacy instruction? Join us!

About the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) works with districts, schools, and educators to promote teaching and learning that is antiracist, inclusive, multilingual, and multicultural; that values and affirms each and every student and their families; and that creates equitable opportunities and experiences for all students, particularly those who have been historically underserved. For more information on our educational vision, visit https://www.doe.mass.edu/commissioner/vision/..

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our most important asset is our staff. DESE continuously strives for a workplace that values a community of diverse talent where everyone works together to improve education for all students. We believe in diverse talent. A strong, innovative, and effective team has members with diverse experiences. We believe in and work toward equity for all protected classes. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

About the Office of Literacy and Humanities

At DESE’s Office of Literacy and Humanities, we support educators to provide an excellent education in Literacy and Humanities to every student in Massachusetts. We are part of a nationwide movement for equity in literacy. While Massachusetts is #1 in the nation for literacy achievement, the educational system does not serve all students equitably. Through our support to educators focused on curriculum, assessment, and instruction, we seek to enable equitable high achievement for all students, especially students from historically underserved groups such as students of color, multilingual learners and students with disabilities.

Early literacy is a key determinant of students’ future success and a priority of the Healey-Driscoll administration. The ELA/Literacy Content Support Specialist will lead initiatives to improve early literacy curriculum, instruction, and student support that will impact educators and students across the Commonwealth.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead large-scale, high-impact literacy instructional support projects, such as:

• Support districts in meeting their literacy improvement goals through relationship-building, progress monitoring, and coaching

• Lead evaluation of DESE programs and initiatives to ensure effective delivery of services to educators and students
• Contribute to other DESE programs and policies through collaboration with other teams

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• Knowledge of the MA Curriculum Framework for ELA/Literacy, evidence-based literacy instructional practices, and multi-tiered systems of support
• Knowledge of culturally sustaining practices in literacy
• Knowledge of language and literacy acquisition for multilingual learners and the WIDA 2020 standards
• Ability to provide clear, professional and supportive written and verbal communication to stakeholders
• Ability to manage complex projects independently, including being organized with documents, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines
• Experience teaching early literacy in a public school

Desired Mindsets and Attributes

• Alignment with the principles articulated in DESE’s Educational Vision,, including a commitment to equity and anti-racism in education
• Asset-based view of all students and families and belief in the ability of all students to achieve at high levels
• Collaborative mindset and desire to work collaboratively with DESE teammates and educators
• Eagerness for feedback and commitment to continuous professional improvement

Don’t meet every preferred skill above? Please apply anyway! Studies have shown that people from historically marginalized groups are less likely to apply for jobs when they don’t meet every single requirement. DESE is dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace that fosters a sense of belonging. If you’re excited about this role, we encourage you to apply.

The Content Support Specialist will be based at the DESE office in Everett, MA, with regular travel throughout MA regularly required. DESE employees are currently required to report to the office two days per week and may telework up to three days per week.

Questions regarding this position or the application process 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!