What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director, Literacy Programs & Initiatives (Program Manager Senior IV) position at Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)?
The Executive Director of Literacy Programs and Initiative provides strategic and transformative leadership for the implementation of the literacy initiatives and State Literacy Framework to dramatically improve reading proficiency for students from all backgrounds in Maryland as indicated by improved outcomes on the state MCAP assessment and the NAEP exam to meet the aspirational target of Maryland to rank as one of the top ten states in reading on the 4th and 8th grade NAEP exams by 2027 established the Maryland State Board of Education. Also the position will support the State’s literacy initiatives by leading professional learning and transformative initiatives that include crafting policies aligned with Science of Reading, State and Federal requirements including but not limited to curriculum adoption, assessment, data analysis, an early warning system, interventions, and accountability.
This position provides content area expertise, and oversight to all state literacy and English Language Arts (ELA) programs, projects, and initiatives Pre-K to 12 in Maryland public schools and oversees the development and deployment of best in class, research-based support to LEAs to implement comprehensive literacy programs that are aligned to the science of reading, elevate ELA content standards in teaching and learning, and ensure access to high-quality instruction for all students across the state, especially those who have been historically underserved. Additionally, the Executive Director ensures students are proficient in reading by the end of third grade and that intervention and support is available for struggling readers throughout their Pre-K to 12 learning experience, thereby ensuring students can build content knowledge across all subjects, develop critical thinking skills, and apply their skills to authentic world problems.
In close collaboration with the Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning and the Office of the State Superintendent, develops and implements the vision, mission, and short- and long-term plans related to supporting literacy across the state in alignment with State’s Literacy Framework, MSDE’s strategic plan and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
Experience: Six years of experience in educational leadership with expertise in the areas of literacy, English Language Arts, curriculum development, coaching, professional learning, and coordinating or administering programs or services in a prekindergarten through grade 12 setting.
Note
Candidates may substitute the possession of a Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a field related to the position for two years of the required experience.
One year of experience managing or leading Literacy, Reading and/or related programs in prekindergarten through 12 settings.Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.
State Of Maryland Benefits
Applicants must complete the MD State Government online application for employment and submit their professional resume. The application and resume must clearly demonstrate that the applicant satisfies the minimum qualifications for the position. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the address listed.
If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-333-8950 or mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application. Postmarks will not be accepted.
Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0019, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities. If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.
Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.
As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. Individuals with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.
All application materials must be received in our office by the Closing Date.
Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.
This position provides content area expertise, and oversight to all state literacy and English Language Arts (ELA) programs, projects, and initiatives Pre-K to 12 in Maryland public schools and oversees the development and deployment of best in class, research-based support to LEAs to implement comprehensive literacy programs that are aligned to the science of reading, elevate ELA content standards in teaching and learning, and ensure access to high-quality instruction for all students across the state, especially those who have been historically underserved. Additionally, the Executive Director ensures students are proficient in reading by the end of third grade and that intervention and support is available for struggling readers throughout their Pre-K to 12 learning experience, thereby ensuring students can build content knowledge across all subjects, develop critical thinking skills, and apply their skills to authentic world problems.
In close collaboration with the Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning and the Office of the State Superintendent, develops and implements the vision, mission, and short- and long-term plans related to supporting literacy across the state in alignment with State’s Literacy Framework, MSDE’s strategic plan and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
- Designs and implements accountability and reporting systems aligned to the science of reading to ensure curriculum, instruction, and assessments focus on student achievement to and through college and career pathways in close collaboration with MSDE’s Division of Accountability, Assessment, and Performance Reporting.
- Facilitates and supports LEAs implementation and accountability of Maryland’s Ready to Read Act and Directs the continuous improvement of statewide PreK-12 literacy programs and initiatives aligned to the science of reading in support of college and career readiness.
- Oversees the development and coordination of college and career pathways established through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future for all students, especially those who have been historically underserved.
- Establishes regular, statewide professional learning sessions to support LEA capacity building and refine program implementation and instruction.
- Develops and implements a framework for high-quality professional learning aligned to the science of reading that supports Pre-K-3 teachers responsible for early literacy instruction and secondary teachers responsible for interventions with struggling readers and continued development of comprehension for all students.
- Provides content expertise for identifying, selecting, and utilizing high-quality, content-rich, and culturally responsive instructional materials in literacy and ELA, including the development of state rubrics and professional learning to support the effective use and implementation of high-quality instructional materials.
- Ensures literacy acquisition skills are reinforced in all subject areas, including the use of intervention strategies and materials to differentiate learning based on student need.
- Aligns and deploys best in class professional learning and support experiences to LEAs, IHEs, and industry partners to modernize secondary and post-secondary education and training systems and connect them tightly to the world of work and careers through innovative school models and master schedules.
- Cultivates and manages effective working relationships with other MSDE offices/divisions, governmental entities, and community-based stakeholders to successfully implement programs and initiatives related to early/middle college, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, dual credit, and career and technical education (CTE) pathways.
- Manages statewide work groups focused on aligning ELA education with the Blueprint’s College and Career Readiness pathways.
- Designs, implements, and evaluates high-quality, differentiated professional learning experiences and activities that highlight literacy for LEAs and other key stakeholders.
- Provides fiscal accountability, reporting, and coordination for all programs and initiatives related to college and career pathways.
Experience: Six years of experience in educational leadership with expertise in the areas of literacy, English Language Arts, curriculum development, coaching, professional learning, and coordinating or administering programs or services in a prekindergarten through grade 12 setting.
Note
Candidates may substitute the possession of a Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a field related to the position for two years of the required experience.
One year of experience managing or leading Literacy, Reading and/or related programs in prekindergarten through 12 settings.Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.
- Active teacher certification in any State with experience as a classroom teacher.
- Knowledge and experience in the Science of Reading, English Language Arts, Structured Literacy, or other literacy programs.
- Knowledge of early literacy programs, the Maryland College and Career Ready Standards and the Maryland comprehensive Literacy Plan.
- Knowledge of curriculum and evidence-based instructional practices in English Language Arts and literacy.
- Knowledge of school improvement programs.
- Skill in providing leadership, professional development, and coaching to educators and/or administrators.
- Skill and experience working in a fast-paced state or large district led initiative focused on increasing reading outcomes.
- Skill with developing procedures and systems and in producing documents and resources for LEAs, Administrators, teachers, or family/communities.
- Skill in implementing, monitoring, and evaluating education programs.
- Skill in developing and presenting professional learning programs.
- Skill in monitoring and document grant financial activity
- Skill organizing/ managing multiple tasks and timelines.
- Ability to work as a team member to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
State Of Maryland Benefits
Applicants must complete the MD State Government online application for employment and submit their professional resume. The application and resume must clearly demonstrate that the applicant satisfies the minimum qualifications for the position. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the address listed.
If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-333-8950 or mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application. Postmarks will not be accepted.
Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0019, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities. If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.
Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.
As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. Individuals with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.
All application materials must be received in our office by the Closing Date.
Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.
